About the song
## Light My Fire: An Anthem of the Psychedelic Revolution
“Light My Fire” is a landmark song by the American rock band The Doors, forever etched in the annals of rock history. Though credited to the entire band, the genesis of this iconic track lies with guitarist Robby Krieger. Inspired by the melodies of “Hey Joe” and the Rolling Stones’ “Play with Fire,” Krieger crafted the foundation in early 1966.
The song’s evolution became a collaborative effort. John Densmore, the band’s drummer, pushed for a Latin rhythm, while Jim Morrison, the enigmatic frontman, penned the second verse and part of the now-famous chorus, “Try to set the night on fire.” Ray Manzarek, the keyboardist, added the instantly recognizable Bach-inspired intro on the Vox Continental organ, and Densmore suggested the dramatic opening with a single snare drum hit.
“Light My Fire” debuted in live performances around April 1966, featuring extended improvisations that showcased the band’s jazz influences. During recording, producer Paul A. Rothchild brought in session musician Larry Knechtel to add a bass line that complemented Manzarek’s keyboard work. Rothchild also suggested the cyclical structure, repeating the intro at the end for a cohesive feel.
While the album version clocked in at over seven minutes, radio stations, particularly Los Angeles DJ Dave Diamond, clamored for a shorter version for airplay. Despite the band’s initial resistance, Elektra Records owner Jac Holzman and Rothchild edited a single cut down to under three minutes, removing most of the instrumental interlude to fit the constraints of AM radio.
“Light My Fire” transcended the radio edit, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its association with the 1960s counterculture stemmed not only from its innovative structure and psychedelic rock elements, but also from its suggestive lyrics, particularly the line “girl, we couldn’t get much higher.” This very line caused controversy when The Doors appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show. The producers insisted on a lyric change, fearing a drug reference, but during the live performance, Morrison defied them, singing the original version. This act cemented their status as rebels and solidified “Light My Fire” as an anthem of the era’s social and artistic liberation.
Video
Lyrics
You know that it would be untrue
You know that I would be a liar
If I was to say to you
Girl, we couldn’t get much higher
Come on, baby, light my fire
Come on, baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire
The time to hesitate is through
No time to wallow in the mire
Try now we can only lose
And our love become a funeral pyre
Come on, baby, light my fire
Come on, baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire, yeah
The time to hesitate is through
No time to wallow in the mire
Try now we can only lose
And our love become a funeral pyre
Come on, baby, light my fire
Come on, baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire, yeah
You know that it would be untrue
You know that I would be a liar
If I was to say to you
Girl, we couldn’t get much higher
Come on, baby, light my fire
Come on, baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire