About the song
The Doors’ “Paris Blues”: A Lost Gem Unearthed
For decades, rumors swirled among The Doors‘ most ardent fans about a bluesy, enigmatic track called “Paris Blues.” Whispered about, bootlegged, and debated, this song took on a near-mythical status. Was it a lost masterpiece, a mere fragment, or just a figment of collective imagination? In 2022, the mystery was finally solved when “Paris Blues” was officially released.
A Journey Through Time and Memory
The song itself is a fascinating time capsule. Recorded sometime during the sessions for either “The Soft Parade” or “L.A. Woman,” it captures the band at a pivotal point in their career. The sound is pure Doors: Jim Morrison’s voice is smoky and evocative, Robby Krieger’s guitar lines are sinuous and blues-inflected, Ray Manzarek’s keyboards add a touch of psychedelic atmosphere, and John Densmore’s drumming is both tight and propulsive.
Lyrically, “Paris Blues” is a poetic meditation on longing, loss, and the search for meaning. Morrison’s words evoke a sense of world-weariness and existential angst, yet there’s also a glimmer of hope and resilience. It’s a song that speaks to the universal human experience of searching for connection and purpose in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent.
A Testament to The Doors’ Enduring Legacy
The release of “Paris Blues” is a testament to The Doors’ enduring legacy. It’s a reminder that even after all these years, their music continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. The song is a gift to longtime fans, a chance to finally hear a piece of music that they’ve only dreamed of. For newer listeners, it’s an opportunity to discover a hidden gem from one of rock’s most iconic bands.
Whether you’re a lifelong Doors devotee or a newcomer to their music, “Paris Blues” is a song that deserves your attention. It’s a haunting, beautiful, and ultimately uplifting piece of music that captures the essence of what made The Doors so special.
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Lyrics
I wish I was a girl of 16Be the queen of the magazineI’d drive around in a great big car
I’d see the world as a great big dreamAnd all night long, you could hear me screamHear me scream
When you look around
When you look all around youCan you believe the shape she’s in?
Look all around youCan you believe the shape she’s in?
Know where I’m goin’Can’t remember where I’ve beenKnow right where I’m goin’Well, I can’t remember where I’ve been
Goin’ to the city of loveGonna start my life all over again, yeah
Once I was youngNow I’m gettin’ oldOnce I was warm, babeNow I feel cold
Well, I’m goin’ overseasGonna grab me some of that gold
