Unraveling the Mystery of Jim Morrison: A Drummer's Perspective
Late Doors frontman Jim Morrison was known for his impulsive and sometimes volatile personality. The band’s drummer, John Densmore, shared an anecdote in his 2020 memoir about an awkward encounter Morrison had with Paul Simon of Simon & Garfunkel. The incident took place in August 1967 when The Doors were opening for Simon & Garfunkel at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium in Queens, New York. Densmore described Morrison's behavior as exuding bad vibes towards Simon, leading to an uncomfortable situation backstage.
Years later, Densmore had the opportunity to meet Paul Simon again at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. During their conversation, Densmore apologized to Simon for Morrison's behavior at Forest Hills, acknowledging that Jim had been rude to him before their performance. Simon recalled the incident and they both speculated that Morrison's actions might have been due to nerves or insecurity, considering the magnitude of the event and the pressure of opening for a renowned act like Simon & Garfunkel.
Reflecting on the encounter with Simon, Densmore shared that they discussed Morrison's unpredictable nature and how he often operated in his own world. Despite the initial tension between Morrison and Simon, the drummer expressed gratitude for the opportunity to open for such a prominent duo early in their career. The conversation with Simon at the Ryman Auditorium provided closure and insight into the past, allowing Densmore to reflect on Morrison's behavior and the impact it had on their performance that day.
In addition to his musical endeavors with The Doors, Densmore has embarked on a new project with Public Enemy's Chuck D called doPE. Their debut album, "No Country For Old Men," is set to be released as a limited-edition vinyl LP on April 18 for Record Store Day 2026. The collaboration between Densmore and Chuck D showcases their innovative approach to music and their shared passion for pushing boundaries in the industry.