About the song
“Touch Me” by The Doors, released in 1968, is a song with a rich background and several intertwined themes:
Background:
- Composition: The song was primarily written by guitarist Robby Krieger, with contributions from the rest of the band. It was initially titled “Hit Me,” a reference to blackjack, but was changed to “Touch Me” to avoid inciting violence at concerts.
- Musical Style: It’s notable for its unique blend of rock, pop, and jazz influences. The saxophone solo by Curtis Amy is considered a groundbreaking inclusion in a rock song.
- Commercial Success: “Touch Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top 3 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969.
Themes:
- Desire and Longing: The lyrics express a deep yearning for physical and emotional connection. The repeated plea “Touch me” is both a physical and metaphorical request for intimacy and understanding.
- Vulnerability: Despite the outward bravado of the lyrics (“I’m not afraid”), there’s an underlying vulnerability and fear of rejection. The speaker craves reassurance and affirmation from their lover.
- Power Dynamics: The song hints at a complex power dynamic between the speaker and their lover. There’s a suggestion of manipulation and a desire to control the situation, yet also a recognition of their own dependence on the other person.
- Spiritual Longing: Some interpretations suggest the song’s themes go beyond the physical and touch upon a deeper spiritual longing. The line “I’m gonna love you till the heavens stop the rain” could be seen as a yearning for a transcendental connection.
“Touch Me” is a multi-layered song that continues to resonate with listeners due to its exploration of universal themes of love, desire, vulnerability, and the search for connection.
Video
Lyrics
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Come on, come on, come on, come onNow, touch me, babeCan’t you see that I am not afraid?What was that promise that you made?Why won’t you tell me what she said?What was that promise that you made?
Now I’m gonna love youTill the heavens stop the rainI’m gonna love youTill the stars fall from the skyFor you and I
Come on, come on, come on, come onNow, touch me, babeCan’t you see that I am not afraid?What was that promise that you made?Why won’t you tell me what she said?What was that promise that you made?
I’m gonna love youTill the heavens stop the rainI’m gonna love youTill the stars fall from the skyFor you and I
I’m gonna love youTill the heavens stop the rainI’m gonna love youTill the stars fall from the skyFor you and I
Stronger than dirt