Jim Morrison would have turned 80 today: Ten songs by the Doors that maybe not everyone knows

Celebrating the 80th birthday of the legendary rocker, Jim Morrison: 10 lesser-known Doors tracks to groove to

Born on December 8, 1943, the enigmatic Jim Morrison would have turned 80 this year. Despite playing with The Doors for merely four years, this charismatic vocalist penned tunes that continue to resonate on radio stations and party playlists nearly half a century later. Songs like "Light My Fire" with its electrifying organ intro, the vibrant "Break on Through (To the Other Side)", and the 11-minute Oedipus anthem "The End" are as familiar today as when they first hit the airwaves.

But we're not just here to talk about the hits. Let's pay tribute to the band by revisiting ten tracks that may not have achieved the same fame but are no less captivating.

The inaugural song on our list is "Talk It As It Comes" from the band's self-titled debut album, often overshadowed by popular tracks like "Break On Through (To The Other Side)" and other enchanting hits. It's time for Morrison to grab the limelight and shine!

Another lesser-known, yet formidable, song is "The Crystal Ship" on the same debut album – an error to overlook!

Moving on to their second album, "Strange Days," we find two lesser-known hits: "My Eyes Have Seen You" and "Strange Days".

From the album "Waiting for the Sun," we bob our heads to "Hello, I Love You" and "The Unknown Soldier", with our dance cards full, we substitute "Love Street" and "Yes, The River Knows". From the "The Soft Parade" lp, we choose "Touch Me" while the ”Morrison Hotel” puts in an appearance with "Indian Summer" and a jazz-inspired "Queen of The Highway".

Wrapping up our celebration with the band's final work, "L.A. Woman," we thank the weather gods for gifting us "Riders On The Storm". Enough to make anyone feel on top of the Hamburg atmosphere!

Read more:

• "Jim Morrison and The Doors":"I have sex and coffee": interview with keyboardist Ray Manzarek"
• "Paul McCartney reflects on music memories:"Every song evokes memories"
• "John Lennon: The first Modern Man" (Source: )

What if we told you that The Doors boasted more than just their popular hits? Here's a rundown of lesser-known gems that deserve some of that Doors love:

1. "Moonlight Drive" from "Strange Days," a tune that beautifully blends traditional rock music with an eerie sense of mystery and mood, making it a perfect one for late-night drives.
2. "The Crystal Ship," another track from "The Doors' self-titled debut album that showcases Morrison's lyrical prowess and the band's ability to create captivating, atmospheric music.
3. "Back Door Man" – a cover of a Willie Dixon song from "The Doors." The band's interpretation of this classic blues number adds a fresh, psychedelic twist that perfectly suited their sound.
4. "Land Ho!", a song from "Morrison Hotel," that finds the band moving away from their usual psychedelic rock, delivering a more straightforward, blues-inspired track that appeals to a different side of their musical palette.
5. "Wild Child," a song from "The Soft Parade" that showcases Morrison's ability to craft a compelling story and the band's versatility in blending different musical styles.
6. "The Unknown Soldier," a powerful anti-war statement from "Waiting for the Sun" that demonstrates Morrison's vocal ability and emotional delivery.

This selection of tracks serves as a reminder of The Doors' diverse musical talent and Jim Morrison's gift for penning memorable, thought-provoking lyrics that continue to enthrall us to this day.