“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine standing at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, breathing in crisp mountain air, feeling the world slow down as nature takes center stage. John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” perfectly captures this feeling, drawing inspiration from his deep love for nature and his experiences in the Colorado wilderness. For many, the song is more than just a track—it’s an anthem of the great outdoors, a hymn of connection to the world beyond city limits.
About The Composition
- Title: Rocky Mountain High
- Composer: John Denver (Co-written with Mike Taylor)
- Premiere Date: 1972
- Album: Rocky Mountain High
- Genre: Folk/Country
Background
“Rocky Mountain High” was born out of John Denver’s profound connection to nature, specifically inspired by his time spent in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Denver moved to Aspen, Colorado, in the late 1960s, and it was here that his admiration for the beauty of the Rockies blossomed. The song, written after a backpacking trip to witness the Perseid meteor shower, became a celebration of the joy and peace found in nature. Released in 1972 as part of his album Rocky Mountain High, the song didn’t just reflect Denver’s personal experience but also resonated with many others who shared his love for the outdoors.
While it wasn’t an immediate chart-topper, “Rocky Mountain High” gradually gained widespread recognition. Its environmental themes and lyrical depiction of the Rocky Mountains’ grandeur struck a chord with listeners, particularly those who had also experienced the serene beauty of nature. The song became emblematic of the early 1970s’ environmental consciousness movement, aligning with the growing desire for a simpler, nature-connected lifestyle.
Musical Style
Musically, “Rocky Mountain High” is driven by Denver’s signature folk sound, characterized by its acoustic guitar arrangement and gentle, melodic structure. The song flows like the landscape it describes, with a soothing rhythm that evokes the calmness and grandeur of the mountains. Denver’s soft tenor voice further amplifies the song’s sense of serenity and awe. There’s an organic quality to the piece, with Denver’s vocal harmonies and Mike Taylor’s guitar work coming together to create a pastoral, almost spiritual atmosphere.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Rocky Mountain High” weave a story of a man who finds peace and a renewed sense of self in the Rockies. The themes of solitude, reflection, and the healing power of nature are central, echoing Denver’s own experiences in the wilderness. The repeated refrain, “Rocky Mountain high, Colorado,” captures the essence of the song—a state of euphoria derived from a deep connection to nature. The imagery of the mountains, wildlife, and skies paint a vivid picture of the Colorado landscape, making listeners feel as though they, too, are standing among the peaks.
Performance History
Over the years, “Rocky Mountain High” has become one of John Denver’s signature songs, frequently performed at his concerts and covered by various artists. In 2007, the state of Colorado adopted the song as one of its two official state songs, cementing its place as an enduring anthem for the state. The song has been performed at numerous environmental events and celebrations, further solidifying its role as a rallying cry for nature lovers.
Cultural Impact
The song’s cultural impact is vast, reaching far beyond the folk and country music scene. “Rocky Mountain High” became an anthem for environmental conservation and an expression of the growing environmental movement in the 1970s. It inspired countless people to appreciate the natural world and to seek out their own experiences in nature. In addition, the song’s inclusion in popular media and its continued relevance in environmental discussions showcase its lasting influence.
Legacy
“Rocky Mountain High” remains one of John Denver’s most beloved and enduring songs, still resonating with audiences over fifty years after its release. Its themes of nature, freedom, and personal reflection are timeless, ensuring that it continues to inspire new generations of listeners. Today, the song stands as a tribute not only to Denver’s musical legacy but also to the beauty and spirit of the Rocky Mountains themselves.
Conclusion
“Rocky Mountain High” is a song that transports you to the wilds of Colorado, urging you to breathe deeply and reconnect with the world around you. John Denver’s love for nature shines through in every note and lyric, making this piece a heartfelt tribute to the earth’s beauty. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of “Rocky Mountain High,” take a moment to listen—preferably somewhere under the open sky. For a truly moving rendition, Denver’s original recording from the Rocky Mountain High album is an unbeatable choice, though live performances capture a special kind of energy as well.
Video
Lyrics
He was born in the summer of his 27th year
Coming home to a place he’d never been before
He left yesterday behind him, you might say he was born again
You might say he found a key for every door
When he first came to the mountains his life was far away
On the road and hanging by a song
But the string’s already broken and he doesn’t really care
It keeps changing fast and it don’t last for long
But the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
The shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby
Rocky Mountain high (Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
He climbed cathedral mountains, he saw silver clouds below
He saw everything as far as you can see
And they say that he got crazy once and he tried to touch the sun
And he lost a friend but kept the memory
Now he walks in quiet solitude the forests and the streams
Seeking grace in every step he takes
His sight has turned inside himself to try and understand
The serenity of a clear blue mountain lake
And the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
Talk to God and listen to the casual reply
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Now his life is full of wonder but his heart still knows some fear
Of a simple thing he cannot comprehend
While they try to tear the mountains down to bring in a couple more
More people, more scars upon the land
And the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
I know he’d be a poorer man if he never saw an eagle fly
Rocky Mountain high
Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
Friends around the campfire and everybody’s high
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (high in Colorado)