“8 Miles High”, Hüsker Dü

This way: 8 Miles High

“Quite simply, it’s one of the most powerful pieces of rock music ever recorded”. That’s the view of eminent music writer Michael Azerrad on Hüsker Dü’s cover of Eight Miles High. The Byrds’ 1966 original Eight Miles High was a classic example of their jangly, psychedelic folk rock and their last US Top 20 hit. Banned by radio stations for its drug references, the title and lyrics also refer to The Byrds’ flight to the UK for a 1965 tour and their mixed reception on arrival – adulation from fans, hostility from rivals. The song’s originality, fusion of Eastern and Western sounds and influence on psychedelic rock make it an important cultural touchstone of its era. In 1984 when Hüsker Dü covered it, it was still a beloved artefact for ageing hippies. Which is exactly why Hüsker Dü went for it.

[Spotify]  8 Miles High