About the song
Background of “To Really Be A Superstar” by The Doors
There’s no confirmed specific story behind the song’s creation. However, it fits within the context of The Doors’ rise to fame in the mid-1960s.
- The band was known for their frontman Jim Morrison’s charismatic and sometimes erratic stage presence.
- They explored themes of rebellion, alienation, and pushing boundaries, which resonated with a generation seeking a counterculture.
Themes in “To Really Be A Superstar”
The song explores the dark side of fame and the hollowness that can come with superstardom. Here are some key themes:
- Disillusionment with Fame: The lyrics mock the stereotypical trappings of success – “pink champagne” and “flashing pearlies” – suggesting they don’t bring true fulfillment.
- Self-Destruction: Lines like “gotta lose your mind” and “break on through to the other side” hint at the potential for self-destructive behavior in the pursuit of fame.
- Existentialism: The song grapples with the meaning of life and the emptiness one might feel despite achieving success.
- Theatricality: It reflects the band’s theatrical and provocative style, with dramatic vocals and a driving rhythm section.
Overall, “To Really Be A Superstar” is a cynical and thought-provoking look at the dark side of fame, a theme that remains relevant in today’s celebrity-obsessed culture.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
You know that it would be untrue
You know that I would be a liar
If I was to say to you
Girl, we couldn’t get much higher
[Chorus]
Come on baby, light my fire
Come on baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire
[Verse 2]
The time to hesitate is through
No time to wallow in the mire
Try now, we can only lose
And our love become a funeral pyre
[Chorus]
Come on baby, light my fire
Come on baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire, yeah
[Instrumental Break]
[Organ Solo]
[Guitar Solo]
[Verse 3]
The time to hesitate is through
No time to wallow in the mire
Try now, we can only lose
And our love become a funeral pyre
[Chorus]
Come on baby, light my fire
Come on baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire, yeah
[Verse 4]
You know that it would be untrue
You know that I would be a liar
If I was to say to you
Girl, we couldn’t get much higher
[Chorus]
Come on baby, light my fire
Come on baby, light my fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire
Try to set the night on fire