Jim Morrison's Milestones
Birth
James Douglas Morrison was born in Melbourne, Florida, to Clara Virginia and George Stephen Morrison, a U.S. Navy officer.
Early childhood
Grew up in a military family, moving frequently due to his father's naval career, living in various locations across the U.S.
Influential childhood experience
Witnessed a car accident involving Native Americans in the desert, an experience that deeply influenced his later poetry and worldview.
High school years
Attended George Washington High School in Alexandria, Virginia, where he excelled academically and developed his interest in poetry.
Florida State University
Studied at Florida State University, majoring in theatre arts and becoming more serious about poetry and literature.
UCLA film school
Transferred to UCLA to study film, where he met future Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek.
Met Ray Manzarek
Met Ray Manzarek on Venice Beach and performed his poem 'Moonlight Drive,' leading to the formation of The Doors.
The Doors formed
Co-founded The Doors with Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore, becoming the lead vocalist and primary lyricist.
First recording contract
The Doors signed their first recording contract with Elektra Records after being discovered at the Whisky a Go Go.
The Doors debut album
Released The Doors' self-titled debut album, featuring 'Light My Fire' and 'The End,' which became a massive success.
Light My Fire success
'Light My Fire' reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making The Doors one of the biggest bands in America.
Ed Sullivan Show controversy
Performed on The Ed Sullivan Show but was asked to change the lyrics to 'Light My Fire,' leading to tension with censors.
Strange Days album
Released 'Strange Days,' the band's second album, which continued their success and artistic development.
Waiting for the Sun
Released 'Waiting for the Sun,' which included hits like 'Hello, I Love You' and reached #1 on the charts.
Poetry and artistic pursuits
Increasingly focused on poetry and artistic expression, publishing books of poetry and exploring his literary interests.
Miami concert incident
Performed at a controversial concert in Miami where he allegedly exposed himself, leading to his arrest on indecency charges.
The Soft Parade
Released 'The Soft Parade,' a more experimental album that divided critics but showed the band's musical evolution.
Morrison Hotel
Released 'Morrison Hotel,' a return to the band's blues and rock roots that was well-received by critics.
Miami trial
Stood trial for the Miami concert incident, facing charges of indecent exposure and profanity.
L.A. Woman sessions
Recorded 'L.A. Woman,' which would become The Doors' final album with Morrison, featuring classics like 'Riders on the Storm.'
Moved to Paris
Moved to Paris with longtime girlfriend Pamela Courson to focus on poetry and escape legal troubles.
L.A. Woman released
'L.A. Woman' was released and became one of The Doors' most acclaimed albums, featuring Morrison's final recordings.
Death
Found dead in his bathtub in Paris at age 27, officially from heart failure, though circumstances remain mysterious.
Père Lachaise burial
Buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, which became a pilgrimage site for fans.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The Doors were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their lasting influence on rock music.