About the song
John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” is an iconic song that celebrates the natural beauty and spiritual inspiration found in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Written by John Denver and Mike Taylor, the song was released in 1972 as the title track of Denver’s album “Rocky Mountain High.”
The song captures Denver’s deep connection to the mountains, reflecting his experiences and observations while living in Colorado. Its lyrics paint vivid images of soaring eagles, alpenglow, and starlit skies, conveying a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world.
“Rocky Mountain High” was a commercial success, peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also topped the Billboard Easy Listening chart, showcasing its broad appeal across different demographics. The album of the same name became one of Denver’s most acclaimed works, highlighting his ability to blend folk, country, and pop influences into a cohesive and emotionally resonant sound.
Beyond its chart performance, “Rocky Mountain High” became an anthem for environmental awareness and appreciation of nature. Denver’s earnest delivery and sincere lyrics struck a chord with listeners who shared his love for the outdoors and conservation efforts.
Throughout his career, John Denver’s music, including “Rocky Mountain High,” has inspired countless artists and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Denver’s legacy as a singer-songwriter who used his platform to celebrate the beauty of the natural world and encourage listeners to cherish and protect it.
In summary, “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver remains a timeless classic that celebrates the splendor of nature and the profound impact of the Rocky Mountains on Denver’s life and music. It stands as a poignant reminder of the power of music to evoke emotions and inspire appreciation for the world around us.
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)