Been Down So Long


"Been Down So Long" is a song by the American rock band the Doors. It appears as the third song on L.A. Woman, the last studio album that lead singer Jim Morrison recorded with the group. It has been called a "take-off" on the album.
A live version recorded May 8, 1970, at Cobo Arena in Detroit appears on The Bright Midnight Sampler. It has also been covered by Randy Newman and by Gov't Mule with Doors guitarist Robby Krieger.

Background

Lyrically, the song draws upon themes of depression, liberation, and sexuality. The title makes reference
to Richard Fariña's book Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me and Furry Lewis's 1928 song, "I Will Turn Your Money Green". It is also considered to be Morrison at his most "mock tough".
Musically, "Been Down So Long" is a conventional blues song, with rambunctious aggression, and of the "old Doors, slow blues" style. It also features a distinct slide guitar, a rough sound, and a stomping beat.