When John Denver penned the lyrics to “Rocky Mountain High” in 1972, he created more than just a song – it became an ode to the unparalleled natural beauty of his adopted home state of Colorado. Over a gentle acoustic melody, Denver paints vivid pictures with his poetic verses, transporting listeners to “a Colorado rocky mountain high.”
Released on his breakout album of the same name, the single became Denver’s signature song by celebrating the rugged mountains, cascading rivers and vast open skies that filled him with creative inspiration. His intimate vocals convey a sense of childlike wonder at experiences like seeing angels “fill the sky” around him in the Alpine wilderness. But it also hinted at a spiritual enlightenment that Denver seemed to find among the isolated peaks.
While some initially misunderstood or protested what they saw as drug references, Denver was crystal clear that his lyrics spoke only of nature’s majesty. “Rocky Mountain High” soon took on meaning as an unofficial state anthem, with its imagery of untouched nature serving as a metaphor for Colorado’s independent spirit. The song came to define Denver’s image as a folk troubadour drifting between concerts and the natural splendors he immortalized in his music.
Over 50 years since its release, “Rocky Mountain High” remains one of the most beloved Colorado songs of all time. Even those who have never visited the state are able to glimpse its soul-stirring scenery through Denver’s evocative narrative. The single catapulted him to a new level of fame and reinforced his gift for illuminating nature’s splendor in a simple, heartfelt style. In crafting this songbook classic, Denver assured that future generations would always feel the state’s rugged allure anytime they heard its opening lyrics.