About the song
“Love Street” by The Doors is a charming and poetic track that showcases the band’s softer, more introspective side. Released in 1968, “Love Street” is part of their third studio album, “Waiting for the Sun.” This song offers a glimpse into the personal life of Jim Morrison, the band’s enigmatic frontman, and reflects the idyllic and bohemian lifestyle he shared with his girlfriend, Pamela Courson, in the Laurel Canyon neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Written by Jim Morrison, “Love Street” captures the essence of a peaceful and romantic retreat, away from the chaos of the rock and roll lifestyle. The lyrics are intimate and evocative, describing the everyday moments and characters of the street where Morrison and Courson lived. Lines like “She lives on Love Street / Lingers long on Love Street” paint a vivid picture of a place filled with love and tranquility.
“Love Street” was released as the B-side to the single “Hello, I Love You,” which became one of The Doors’ biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Although “Love Street” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as its A-side counterpart, it has remained a beloved song among fans for its lyrical beauty and mellow, melodic composition.
Musically, “Love Street” is a departure from The Doors’ more intense and psychedelic offerings. The arrangement is gentle and understated, with Ray Manzarek’s keyboards providing a soft and flowing backdrop. Robby Krieger’s guitar work is delicate and intricate, complementing the song’s serene atmosphere. John Densmore’s drumming is subtle and restrained, allowing Morrison’s voice and lyrics to take center stage.
Jim Morrison’s vocal performance on “Love Street” is tender and reflective, capturing the intimacy of the lyrics. His delivery is both heartfelt and casual, adding to the song’s overall sense of warmth and relaxation. The song’s mellow vibe and personal subject matter make it a standout track on the “Waiting for the Sun” album.
“Love Street” offers a unique window into Jim Morrison’s personal world and his relationship with Pamela Courson. It is a song that resonates with listeners for its authenticity and simplicity, providing a contrast to the darker and more complex themes often explored in The Doors’ music.
For those who experienced the late 1960s firsthand, “Love Street” evokes memories of a time when love and peace were central themes in music and culture. For newer generations, it offers a touching and accessible entry point into The Doors’ diverse body of work. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey a sense of place and emotion that is both timeless and universal.
In conclusion, “Love Street” remains a cherished piece of The Doors’ legacy, celebrated for its lyrical charm and gentle musicality. It stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and Jim Morrison’s poetic sensibilities, ensuring its place in the hearts of fans across the decades.
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Lyrics
She lives on Love Street
Lingers long on Love Street
She has a house and garden
I would like to see what happens
She has robes and she has monkeys
Lazy diamond studded flunkies
She has wisdom and knows what to do
She has me, and she has you
She has wisdom and knows what to do
She has me, and she has you
I see you live on Love Street
There’s this store where the creatures meet
I wonder what they do in there
Summer Sunday, and a year
I guess I like it fine, so far
She lives on Love Street
Lingers long on Love Street
She has a house and garden
I would like to see what happens
La-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la, la-la-la-la
La-la-la, la-la-la-la