No, the Doors’ ‘Whisky Bar’ Is Not About Jim Morrison

Its debauched theme may appear to have sprung from the wild lifestyle of Doors’ singer-songwriter Jim Morrison, but “Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)” was written by German playwright Bertolt Brecht and set to music by composer Kurt Weill, part of an early 20th century opera.

The tune would help win the band a contract with Elektra Records and appeared on the band’s 1967 self-titled debut album.

When they began a months-long gig at Hollywood’s Whisky a Go Go in May 1966, the Doors were still without a record deal. Their unpredictable, drugged-out live shows scared off many label executives. Jac Holzman of Elektra eventually signed the Doors, but not before attending a few shows with his top producer, Paul Rothchild. Keyboardist Ray Manzarek told Rockmine that one song especially convinced Holzman.

“It did take him one or two times before he was convinced that the band was worthy of being an Elektra Records recording artist . . . they had Love, they had Paul Butterfield . . .