What is the creation date of Rocky Mountain High?

Tourist Attractions

By Caroline Lascom

The Origins of Rocky Mountain High

Rocky Mountain High is a song that has become synonymous with the state of Colorado and the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Written by the late John Denver, it has captured the hearts of many with its haunting melody and lyrics that speak to the majesty of nature. The song has become a staple at sporting events in Colorado and has been covered by numerous artists.

A Brief History of John Denver

John Denver was a singer-songwriter who was born in New Mexico in 1943. He rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and "Annie’s Song." Denver was known for his love of nature and his activism on environmental issues. He was a pilot and owned several planes, one of which crashed in 1997, killing him instantly.

John Denver’s Relationship with the Rocky Mountains

Denver had a deep love for the Rocky Mountains and spent much of his time exploring them. He was an avid skier and often wrote songs about his experiences in the mountains. Denver once said, "I believe that we are here for each other, not against each other. Everything comes from an understanding that you are a part of something greater than yourself." This sentiment is captured in his song Rocky Mountain High.

The Inspiration Behind Rocky Mountain High

The inspiration for Rocky Mountain High came from Denver’s experiences in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. It was written during a camping trip with friends in the late 1960s. Denver was inspired by the beauty and serenity of the mountains and wanted to capture that feeling in a song. The song speaks to the sense of wonder and awe that one can feel when surrounded by nature.

The Recording of Rocky Mountain High

Rocky Mountain High was recorded in 1972 at RCA Studios in Hollywood, California. Denver was backed by a group of session musicians, including guitar player James Burton. The song was produced by Milt Okun, who had worked with Denver before.

Release and Reception of Rocky Mountain High

Rocky Mountain High was released as a single in 1972 and quickly became a hit, reaching #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was also included on Denver’s album of the same name, which was released later that year. The album went platinum and helped establish Denver as one of the most popular musicians of the 1970s.

Rocky Mountain High’s Impact on John Denver’s Career

Rocky Mountain High was a turning point in Denver’s career. It helped to solidify his image as a nature-loving troubadour and was a departure from the country-pop style of his earlier hits. The song also became a signature tune for Denver, and he would often close his concerts with it.

The Legacy of Rocky Mountain High

Rocky Mountain High has become an anthem of sorts for Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been used in commercials and movies. In 2007, the Colorado state legislature made Rocky Mountain High one of two official state songs.

Controversies Surrounding Rocky Mountain High

Despite its popularity, Rocky Mountain High has not been without controversy. Some have criticized the song for promoting medicine use, with the line "friends around the campfire, and everybody’s high" being interpreted as a reference to plant use. Denver denied that the song was about medicines, stating that it was about the feeling of being elevated by nature.

The Significance of Rocky Mountain High Today

Today, Rocky Mountain High still resonates with people who love the Rocky Mountains and the great outdoors. It has become a symbol of the beauty and majesty of nature and a tribute to John Denver’s legacy as a musician and environmental activist.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Rocky Mountain High

Rocky Mountain High has endured for nearly 50 years as a testament to the beauty of nature and the love of the Rocky Mountains. Its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics have touched millions of people around the world. It remains a beloved song and a tribute to the legacy of John Denver.

Additional Resources for Rocky Mountain High Fans

For fans of Rocky Mountain High, there are many resources available to learn more about the song and its creator. The book "Take Me Home: An Autobiography" by John Denver provides insight into his life and career, while the documentary "John Denver: Country Boy" explores his love of nature and his activism. There are also several tribute albums and concerts featuring covers of his songs.

Photo of author

Caroline Lascom

Caroline is a seasoned travel writer and editor, passionate about exploring the world. She currently edits captivating travel content at TravelAsker, having previously contributed her exceptional skills to well-known travel guidebooks like Frommer’s, Rough Guides, Footprint, and Fodor’s. Caroline holds a bachelor's degree in Latin American studies from Manchester University (UK) and a master's degree in literature from Northwestern University. Having traveled to 67 countries, her journeys have fueled her love for storytelling and sharing the world's wonders.

Leave a Comment