On April 19, 1971, “L.A. Woman” was released, The Doors' sixth studio album and the last to be recorded while Jim Morrison was alive.
During production, disagreements arose between the band and producer Paul A. Rothschild, who had collaborated on the previous five albums.
Rothschild criticized the song “Riders on the Storm,” calling it “cocktail music,” which led to Bruce Botnick taking over the recording.
“L.A. Woman” was recorded at The Doors' workshop, a two-story building on Santa Monica Boulevard, using an eight-channel recorder.
Most of the tracks were recorded live, with some additional layers of keyboards by Ray Manzarek.
In January 1971, session musicians such as bassist Gerry Schaff and guitarist Mark Benno joined in to add the finishing touches.
The title track is dedicated to Pamela Curson, Morrison's muse, who repeats the phrase “Mr. Mojo risin,” an anagram of her name.
“Love Her Madly,” written by Robbie Krieger, was released as a single and reached #11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Riders on the Storm”, inspired by a cowboy song, became Morrison's last recording and contains references to tragedies.
This album is notable for being the only album by The Doors that did not tour.