About the song
“Rocky Mountain High” is a beloved folk rock song written by John Denver and Mike Taylor. Released in 1972, it quickly became one of John Denver’s signature songs and a defining piece of 1970s pop culture. The song is also one of the two official state songs of Colorado, a testament to its deep connection with the state’s identity and history.
Recorded as the title track of Denver’s 1972 album, “Rocky Mountain High” reached No. 9 on the US Hot 100 in 1973. This success helped cement Denver’s status as one of the era’s most popular and influential musicians. Interestingly, Denver shared with audiences that the song took an unusually long nine months to write, reflecting the profound personal significance it held for him. The record was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America on April 10, 2017, for sales exceeding 500,000 digital downloads, underscoring its enduring popularity.
The inspiration for “Rocky Mountain High” came primarily from Denver’s move to Aspen, Colorado, three years before writing the song, and his profound love for the state. The lyrics capture Denver’s awe and appreciation for the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The seventh stanza of the song poignantly addresses the impact of commercial tourism on the pristine environment, a theme that resonates with many who cherish the natural world.
Despite its uplifting message, “Rocky Mountain High” faced controversy shortly after its release. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was permitted by a legal ruling to censor music deemed to promote drug abuse. Some radio stations, interpreting the phrase “everybody’s high” as a drug reference, banned the song. Denver clarified that the line referred to the sense of peace and elation he experienced in the Rockies. His heartfelt explanation highlighted the innocent and joyous inspiration behind the lyrics.
Denver’s connection to the song and its message was further demonstrated in 1985 when he testified before Congress during the Parents Music Resource Center hearings. He passionately defended “Rocky Mountain High,” emphasizing that those who misinterpreted the song likely had never experienced the profound joy and natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
In late 2007, the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen stirred some controversy by removing the last lines of the song from the “Rocky Mountain High” stone due to the contentious lyric. Despite this, the song’s legacy remains intact, celebrated for its sincerity and lyrical beauty.
Critics have praised “Rocky Mountain High” for its evocative imagery and heartfelt message. Cash Box noted that the song “sparkles with sincerity and beautiful lyrical images,” capturing the essence of Denver’s artistry and his deep connection to nature.
“Rocky Mountain High” continues to be a cherished anthem, not only for fans of John Denver but also for all who appreciate the majestic beauty of Colorado’s landscapes. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey a sense of wonder and peace that comes from experiencing the natural world, making it a timeless piece of musical history.
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)