A Soaring Tribute to Nature: “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver
“Rocky Mountain High” is a captivating folk rock song co-written by the legendary John Denver and Mike Taylor. Released in 1972, this track not only became the title song of Denver’s 1972 album but also climbed to an impressive No. 9 on the US Hot 100 chart in 1973. This song has been so influential and beloved that it was designated one of the two official state songs of Colorado. In April 2017, the Recording Industry Association of America certified it Gold, recognizing over 500,000 digital downloads, a testament to its enduring popularity.
John Denver’s move to Aspen, Colorado three years prior to writing “Rocky Mountain High” heavily inspired the song. His deep affection for the state and its breathtaking landscapes shines through in every note and lyric. The song’s seventh stanza poignantly critiques the commercialization and subsequent destruction of the natural beauty of the mountains, reflecting Denver’s profound environmental consciousness.
The narrative of “Rocky Mountain High” captures the awe and spiritual uplift Denver felt amidst the Rocky Mountains. He eloquently describes the elation and peace he experienced, a state of being he equated to being “high.” This particular phrase, however, sparked controversy during its initial release, especially when the U.S. Federal Communications Commission started censoring music perceived to promote drug use. Many radio stations, wary of the potential implications, banned the song. Denver had to publicly clarify that his use of “high” was purely metaphorical, describing the sheer joy and serenity he found in nature.
Denver’s testimony before Congress in the 1985 Parents Music Resource Center hearings highlighted the misinterpretation of his lyrics. He passionately defended his work, describing the wonder and euphoria felt when witnessing the Perseid meteor shower in the Rockies, far from the chaotic influences of urban life. His vivid imagery and heartfelt words underscored the song’s true essence—celebrating life and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Despite its controversies, “Rocky Mountain High” remains a significant piece of 1970s pop culture and a cherished part of Colorado’s history. The Western Writers of America honored it as one of the Top 100 Western songs of all time, further cementing its legacy. In 2007, the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen stirred some debate when the final lines of the song, including the once-controversial lyric, were removed from the “Rocky Mountain High” stone, sparking discussions on preserving artistic integrity versus public sensibilities.
Renowned for its sincere and beautifully crafted lyrics, “Rocky Mountain High” continues to resonate with listeners. Cash Box magazine praised the song for its genuine emotion and vivid lyrical imagery. Denver’s masterful storytelling and melodic composition invite listeners to experience the sublime beauty of the Rocky Mountains, creating a timeless anthem that celebrates the natural world and the profound peace it brings to the human spirit.
In “Rocky Mountain High,” John Denver not only crafted a song but also an enduring ode to nature, encapsulating the tranquil yet exhilarating essence of the Rockies. It’s a song that continues to inspire and uplift, much like the majestic mountains that inspired its creation.
Music Legend