About the song
“Eight Miles High” is a timeless classic by the iconic American rock band, the Byrds. Written by Gene Clark, Jim McGuinn, and David Crosby, this song was first released as a single on March 14, 1966. It is a masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing the development of psychedelia and raga rock. The song’s unique sound was inspired by the sitar playing of Ravi Shankar and the jazz saxophone of John Coltrane.
“Eight Miles High” is often hailed as the first true psychedelic rock song and a quintessential anthem of the counterculture era. However, its release was not without controversy. The song was temporarily banned from U.S. radio due to allegations of drug references in its lyrics. Although the band members denied these claims at the time, they later admitted that their drug use had indeed inspired the song to some extent.
Despite the broadcasting ban, “Eight Miles High” managed to reach number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 24 on the UK Singles Chart. It was also included on the Byrds’ third album, Fifth Dimension, released on July 18, 1966. This song marked the Byrds’ third and final U.S. Top 20 hit and was their last release before the departure of Gene Clark, the band’s primary songwriter.
“Eight Miles High” is a testament to the Byrds’ innovative spirit and their ability to push the boundaries of rock music. Its enduring appeal lies in its complex, uncommercial nature, which continues to captivate listeners to this day. This song is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the rich history of rock music and the pioneering bands that shaped its sound.
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Lyrics
Eight miles high, and when you touch down
You’ll find that it’s stranger than known
Signs in the street, that say where you’re going
Are somewhere just being their own
Nowhere is there warmth to be found
Among those afraid of losing their ground
Rain gray town, known for its sound
In places, small faces unbound
Round the squares, huddled in storms
Some laughing, some just shapeless forms
Sidewalk scenes, and black limousines
Some living, some standing alone