About the song
“Rocky Mountain High” is a beloved anthem that encapsulates the spirit of exploration and connection with nature, performed by the iconic American singer-songwriter John Denver. Released in 1972 as the title track of his album “Rocky Mountain High,” the song reflects Denver’s deep admiration for the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains and his experiences living in Colorado.
John Denver, born Henry John Deutschendorf Jr., was celebrated for his folk and country music, often weaving themes of environmentalism, love, and self-discovery into his lyrics. “Rocky Mountain High” was written by Denver and Mike Taylor, and it quickly became one of his most recognizable songs, resonating with a wide audience.
The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing Denver’s reputation as a prominent singer-songwriter of the era. Its popularity was driven not only by its catchy melody but also by its evocative lyrics that evoke a sense of wonder and freedom amidst the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.
Denver’s heartfelt delivery and genuine connection to the natural world struck a chord with listeners, earning him admiration as a troubadour who could capture the essence of American landscapes through music. “Rocky Mountain High” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its uplifting spirit and its ability to transport listeners to the majestic peaks and open skies of the Rockies.
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own interpretation to Denver’s ode to nature and adventure. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a cultural touchstone, continuing to inspire generations with its message of harmony with the natural world and the pursuit of personal fulfillment amidst breathtaking scenery.
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)