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This classic episode of Questlove Supreme features John Densmore, the legendary drummer of The Doors, discussing his musical roots, his relationship with Jim Morrison, and the unique collaborative process that defined the band. Densmore opens up about his early jazz influences under greats like Elvin Jones, how the band operated without a traditional bass player, and why he famously resisted commercial licensing of their music. The conversation moves through the realities of the 1960s counterculture, the impact of television and radio on their sound, and Densmore's reflections on aging, activism, and the music industry. Through detailed anecdotes and a closing poetry reading, Densmore offers a rare window into one of rock's most unconventional and enduring acts.
The episode opens with the host Questlove welcoming listeners and introducing the special guest, John Densmore of The Doors.
Questlove formally introduces John Densmore, highlighting his achievements and the significance of his role in The Doors.
John recounts his transition from piano to drums, influenced by family and early musical experiences, and how he became a drummer.
John discusses his admiration for jazz legends like Elvin Jones and how these influences shaped his drumming style.
An exploration of how The Doors’ rhythm section operated without a traditional bassist, relying on Ray Manzarek’s keyboard bass and John’s drumming.
The conversation turns to the numerous covers of “Light My Fire,” John’s thoughts on them, and the song’s enduring legacy.
John reflects on the tension between commercial licensing of The Doors’ music and maintaining artistic integrity.
John shares memories of the Los Angeles music scene, the club culture, and the band’s interactions with other artists.
John explains the collaborative songwriting process with Jim Morrison and how the band developed their distinctive sound.
The episode concludes with reflections on The Doors’ lasting influence, comparisons to modern artists, and John’s perspective on the band’s place in music history.
John recounts the chaotic atmosphere and ticket disputes at a historic festival, reflecting on the decline of large outdoor hippie events.
Discussion of the drummer’s preference between touring and studio recording, highlighting learning curves and equipment choices.
John Densmore recalls using a fake ID to see John Coltrane and Elvin Jones in a jazz club as a teenager, sparking a lifelong mentorship.
Playing Without A Bassistinsight
The discussion covers how The Doors functioned without a traditional bass player, relying instead on Ray Manzarek's left hand and keyboard bass.
Densmore explains why he turned down a massive licensing offer for 'Light My Fire' to protect the integrity of the band's catalog.
The Miami Trial And Stressdata
The guest details the immense political pressure and the trial Jim Morrison faced in Miami, which cast a shadow over their later festival performances.
Custom Drumstick Designstrategy
Questlove shares his specific preference for 7A drumsticks made two inches longer to maintain a softer volume and better mix control.
Recording L.A. Womaninsight
Densmore compares recording L.A. Woman to a jazz session, emphasizing raw takes and the deliberate embrace of mistakes.
Closing Poetry Performancestory
John Densmore concludes the interview by playing jazz brushes on a drum while reciting Etheridge Knight's poem 'Circling the Daughter'.
“I don't know if you know that, John, but you sold over 100 million records.”
“I was passionate for music, but I never thought I'd make a living at it.”
“Never found a bad cover of Light My Fire, never found a bad cover of Look of Love.”
“The Doors are one of the only bands that I can think of that didn't have a bass player.”
“I think they called it polyrhythms. You know, I mean, he'd have the pocket.”
“The key to L.A. Woman. It's the first punk album. We're gonna fuck the mistakes. We're gonna go for it in a few takes.”
“I got a piece in Rolling Stone asking Obama to pardon Leonard Peltier, Native American.”
This week's episode of Questlove Supreme pairs Quest and Team Supreme with Rock and Roll royalty, hall of famer and legendary Doors drummer, John Densmore.
12,925 words · 6 speakers
Speaker names marked are inferred from speaking time and the show’s known hosts — they are not voice-verified.
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