John Denver was a beloved American singer and songwriter known for his clear voice and acoustic folk sound. He rose to fame in the 1970s with songs about nature, love, and simple living.

With hits like Take Me Home, Country Roads and Annie’s Song, he became one of the best-selling artists of his time. His music brought peace and beauty to millions, often inspired by the outdoors and his love for Colorado.

He had over 30 gold and platinum albums and became one of the top touring artists of the decade. His songs still speak to people who enjoy calm, honest, and heartfelt music.

About the Song

Rocky Mountain High is a gentle tribute to the Colorado mountains and the freedom Denver felt in nature. The song talks about change, self-growth, and the peace that comes from being surrounded by mountains.

It’s both personal and universal, connecting nature to moments of joy and clarity. The song became one of his most recognized works and was later named an official state song of Colorado.

Rocky Mountain High Full Lyrics

Verse 1

He was born in the summer of his 27th year
Comin’ home to a place he’d never been before
He left yesterday behind him, you might say he was born again
You might say he found a key for every door

Verse 2

When he first came to the mountains, his life was far away
On the road and hangin’ by a song
But the string’s already broken and he doesn’t really care
It keeps changin’ fast and it don’t last for long

Chorus

But the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
The shadow from the starlight is softer than a lullaby
Rocky Mountain high (Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)

Verse 3

He climbed cathedral mountains, he saw silver clouds below
He saw everything as far as you can see
And they say that he got crazy once, and he tried to touch the sun
And he lost a friend, but kept the memory

Verse 4

Now he walks in quiet solitude, the forests and the streams
Seeking grace in every step he takes
His sight has turned inside himself to try and understand
The serenity of a clear blue mountain lake

Chorus

And the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
Talk to God and listen to the casual reply
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)

Verse 5

Now his life is full of wonder, but his heart still knows some fear
Of a simple thing he cannot comprehend
Why they try to tear the mountains down to bring in a couple more
More people, more scars upon the land

Chorus

And the Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
Though he’d be a poorer man if he never saw an eagle fly
Rocky Mountain high

Outro

Colorado Rocky Mountain high
I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky
Friends around the campfire and everybody’s high
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)
Rocky Mountain high (High in Colorado)

Live Performance of the Song

Songs Similar to Rocky Mountain High

Enjoying the calm and heartfelt tone of Rocky Mountain High? Here are more John Denver songs that share its peaceful feel and nature-inspired themes.

• Take Me Home, Country Roads: Like Rocky Mountain High, this song celebrates a place that feels like home, using simple words and warm melodies.
• Sunshine on My Shoulders: Offers a quiet, emotional sound that brings out feelings of peace and comfort, much like Rocky Mountain High.
• Back Home Again: Focuses on the joy of returning to familiar places, with gentle vocals and honest lyrics.
• Annie’s Song: A love song with soft guitar and deep feeling, similar in mood and clarity.
• Poems, Prayers and Promises: Reflects on life and nature with soft reflection, sharing the same emotional core.

Artists Similar to John Denver

If John Denver’s style speaks to you, these artists also write songs about life, love, and the beauty of nature, often using folk or country tones.

• James Taylor
  Genre: Folk / Soft Rock
  Top Albums: Sweet Baby James, Hourglass
• Gordon Lightfoot
  Genre: Folk / Country
  Top Albums: If You Could Read My Mind, Summertime Dream
• Jim Croce
  Genre: Folk / Rock
  Top Albums: You Don’t Mess Around with Jim, I Got a Name
• Dan Fogelberg
  Genre: Folk Rock / Soft Rock
  Top Albums: Phoenix, The Innocent Age
• Don McLean
  Genre: Folk
  Top Albums: American Pie, Tapestry

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Meaning Behind Rocky Mountain High?

The song speaks about finding peace, purpose, and joy in nature and personal growth.

Is it Based on a True Experience?

Yes, John Denver wrote it based on his own time living in Colorado.

What Instruments are Used in the Song?

Mostly acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, and light harmonies.