In a revealing new interview with Rick Beato, The Doors’ guitarist Robbie Krieger and drummer John Densmore share fresh insights about their infamous 1967 appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, which led to the band’s permanent ban from America’s premier variety program.
“There was nothing bigger,” Densmore reflects. “Elvis, The Beatles, us… great!” The drummer recalls Sullivan personally visiting during rehearsal, suggesting the band should smile more during their performance.
The controversy erupted just 15 minutes before broadcast when producers demanded frontman Jim Morrison change the lyrics to “Light My Fire,” specifically the line “Girl, we couldn’t get much higher,” fearing drug connotations. Despite agreeing initially, the band performed the original version.
“I thought they were kidding, to tell you the truth,” Krieger admits. “Like, really? I said, Fuck it, let’s just do it the way that we do it.” The decision cost the band six planned future appearances on the show.
Densmore and Krieger also correct a popular misconception immortalized in Oliver Stone’s 1991 biopic. While the film shows Morrison defiantly confronting producers, Krieger notes this dramatic scene was Hollywood invention.
The September 17, 1967 performance remains a defining moment of artistic integrity in rock history, demonstrating The Doors’ willingness to sacrifice mainstream exposure for creative authenticity.
