Today, June 14, 2023, marks the 55th anniversary of the release of Iron Butterfly’s sophomore album, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Albums chart. Over 30 million copies sold worldwide. The title track, which clocks in at over 17 minutes, is one of the most iconic rock songs of the 1960s and quite possibly, of all time. The song on the album is the entire second side. The middle of the song features a two-and-a-half-minute Ron Bushy drum solo. It has been covered by several artists including, New Jersey psychedelic band 6 Feet Under and believe it or not, SLAYER! (video below)
According to Iron Butterfly drummer Ron Bushy, he claims organist-vocalist Doug Ingle wrote the song one evening while drinking an entire gallon of Red Mountain wine. When the boozed-up Ingle played the song for Bushy. He was slurring his words so badly that what was supposed to be “In the Garden of Eden” was interpreted as “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida”. The song was eventually recorded years later at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles. The album was produced by Jim Hilton and released via ATCO Records.
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida is draped in psychedelic rock and features heavy guitar riffs, organ solos, and cool extended jams. The title track is a powerful and moving song that has resonated with listeners for generations including myself.
The album’s success helped to launch the careers of Iron Butterfly, who went on to release several more albums. However, they never achieved the same level of success as In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida. The album remains a classic of the psychedelic rock genre.
I love the song and the album so much, that I have 3 copies of it on vinyl and a live show from Iron Butterfly with “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” on it as well. Though, not as good as the original version released 55 years ago today!