About the song
“Rocky Mountain High,” a folk rock song penned by John Denver and Mike Taylor, is a beloved piece of American music history and a tribute to the natural beauty of Colorado. Released in 1972 as the title track of Denver’s album *Rocky Mountain High*, the song achieved significant acclaim, peaking at No. 9 on the US Hot 100 in 1973. It also earned a Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America in April 2017 for surpassing 500,000 digital downloads.
The inspiration for “Rocky Mountain High” came from Denver’s profound affection for the state of Colorado, particularly after his move to Aspen three years prior to writing the song. The lyrics reflect his deep admiration for the Rocky Mountains and their serene landscapes. Denver’s song resonated with many, becoming a cultural staple of the 1970s and firmly embedding itself in Colorado’s history.
One notable aspect of the song is its mention of the impact of commercial tourism on the mountain’s beauty. This touch of social commentary adds depth to the song’s celebration of nature. In the mid-1970s, the song faced brief controversy due to concerns over drug references. Denver clarified that the term “high” was meant to describe the euphoric and peaceful feeling he experienced in the Rockies, not drug use.
“Rocky Mountain High” was eventually recognized for its cultural significance when it was officially adopted as one of Colorado’s state songs in 2007, alongside “Where the Columbines Grow.” The song’s influence extends beyond music, with references appearing in popular media and even inspiring other artists like Lana Del Rey in her 2023 single “The Grants.”
In summary, “Rocky Mountain High” stands out not only for its musical success but also for its role in celebrating the majestic beauty of Colorado’s mountains and the joy they inspire.
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)