It is obvious where the DJs at the time could misinterpret drug influences. The sound that defines the song is the electric guitar, which leads into the vocal. However, it soon transforms as the cymbals crash and begin to build many layers of sound that do not surrender until the track’s ending. This is especially so because of the down tempo bass introduction. On first impressions it appears that with “Eight Miles High” the group created a very traditional sound for the backing track. There were several changes to the line up over the years but the original combo is though by many to be the definitive one. The line-up in place when they had their first hit with Bob Dylan’s “Mr Tambourine Man,” was Roger McGuinn on vocals and lead guitar, Gene Clark on vocals and rhythm guitar and David Crosby on vocals and rhythm guitar. The Byrds began life as a folk and country group. Such a controversy was misplaced, as the song purportedly was written about band member Gene Clark’s fear of flying and the band’s first trip to the United Kingdom. Branded a “drug song” by American DJs and ultimately banned from many radio playlists. However, its reception was less than auspicious. Today the song finds itself into compilations of the greatest hits of the 1960s. The original version was recorded in 1966. One of the most influential songs of the psychedelic rock era is the “Eight Miles High” by The Byrds. If you have an idea for a spotlight record or wish to submit a piece, please send one our way.
This month, Alex Kocan considers a single song.
Eight miles high cover series#
This is the latest offering in our occasional, ongoing series that focuses on our readers’ individual engagement with music.
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