The Rise and Fall of Jim Morrison: From Lizard King to Chaotic Frontman

Jim Morrison, the iconic frontman of The Doors, had a magnetic stage presence that entranced audiences in the band’s early years. He sang, flailed, and howled, coaxing his followers into a spiritual reverie. But as time passed, his behavior became increasingly erratic and his performances chaotic.

This photo was taken when he was still the lizard king before things took a wild turn. What was once a spiritual experience for the crowds lost its charm, and Morrison’s intended show-stopping moment often had the opposite effect. Despite his untimely death at 27, Morrison’s fame has endured as one of popular culture’s top rebellious and oft-displayed icons.