Rock is alive and well, at least it was during the celebration of the classic Doors album, ‘Morrison Hotel’.
Some consider it the best album from the American rock band, featuring hit songs such as, ‘Roadhouse Blues’ and ‘Peace Frog.’ “Morrison’s lyrics portray a sense of maturity, while musically the group moved towards a more roots-focused rock sound. This fifth album by the band reached the top five on the US album charts and also became the band’s highest-charting album in the UK,” states Classic Rock Review. The iconic album released in 1970 turned 50 years old and what better way to celebrate than to throw a huge bash with legendary guest performances.
Morrison Hotel Album Cover photographed by Henry Diltz
The Hollywood extravaganza took place at the luxurious Sunset Marquis Hotel in West Hollywood, CA which is also home to the Morrison Hotel Gallery. The gallery also celebrated its 20th anniversary by unveiling a special exhibition featuring rare Doors prints and never before seen outtakes from photographer, Henry Diltz. Diltz, who is also co-founder of the Morrison Hotel Gallery is the very same photographer who shot the album cover for The Doors’ Morrison Hotel record as well as countless festivals and music icons over the last sixty years. On Saturday, February 8, Diltz’s legacy was also honored on the special star-studded night.
Photographer Henry Diltz with The Doors guitarist, Robby Krieger
Guests anxiously lined up outside the Sunset Marquis dressed for the occasion wearing rock’s favorite color, black. As fans and attendees made their way into the venue, they were welcomed by The Doors music playing over the speakers while famous photographs of rock legends were plastered on the walls. Guests made their way poolside to prepare for the jam sessions led by special guests that were kept secret. Rock lovers were in for a treat when one by one those special guests were revealed including The Doors guitarist, Robby Krieger, Gary Clark Jr., The Struts, Dennis Quaid, Michael Bolton and a grand finale performance by Miley Cyrus. Fans cheered and sang along as feelings of complete nostalgia and that good ole raw rock energy, filled the space.
