9/17/1967: The Doors Said the Word ‘Higher’ on National TV

On September 17, 1967, The Doors appeared on the “Ed Sullivan Show" (after comedian Rodney Dangerfield) and prior to the band's performance, the show’s producer asked the band to change the line “Girl, we can’t get much higher” from the song “Light My Fire.”  He explained the word "higher" was inappropriate for a family show on national television because of its association with illegal drug use.

The band agreed on the change....and then sang it anyway. During the performance (below) you can see guitarist Robby Krieger smirk when Morrison sings the line.

Ed Sullivan did not shake Morrison's hand as he left the stage. The band had been negotiating a seven-episode deal with the producers; however, after breaking the agreement not to perform the line, they were informed they would never do the Sullivan show again.

Credit: The Ed Sullivan Show via YouTube