A historic building in downtown Los Angeles, known for its connection to legendary rock band The Doors, was severely damaged in a fire that broke out on Thursday morning. The building, once home to the Morrison Hotel, was made famous as the setting for the cover photo of the band’s fifth album, also titled “Morrison Hotel.”
The iconic album cover photo was captured in December 1969 by renowned rock photographer Henry Diltz. The album, released in February 1970, pays tribute to the surname of The Doors’ frontman, Jim Morrison. The building’s significance in rock history was further highlighted by Diltz’s recent Facebook post recalling the day of the photo shoot.
Despite its storied past, the building, located near Pico Boulevard and Hope Street, had been undergoing plans for conversion into affordable housing. However, these plans have been put on hold as the building was red-tagged following the fire that took place at around 11 a.m. PT on Thursday. It took 17 fire companies approximately an hour and a half to bring the flames under control.
The album “Morrison Hotel” is known for its gritty sound, fitting for a hotel near Los Angeles’ Skid Row. The tracks on the album, such as “Roadhouse Blues,” “Peace Frog,” “Waiting for the Sun,” and “Ship of Fools,” have become favorites among Doors fans.
The building’s association with The Doors and the album cover has solidified its place in rock history, making the fire and resulting damage a significant loss. The efforts to restore the building and preserve its historical significance are now underway, with hopes of honoring its past while also serving the community in a new capacity.
