Video: 'Jim Morrison - Singer & Songwriter for Rock Group The Doors | Mini Bio | BIO'

(Wednesday, December 8, 1943) — Singer-songwriter and poet James Douglas “Jim” Morrison, best remembered as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the Los Angeles rock band The Doors, was born today in Melbourne, Florida, where his parents were stationed at the Naval Air Station Melbourne during World War II.

Due to his energetic persona, poetic lyrics, distinctive voice, erratic and unpredictable performances, along with the dramatic circumstances surrounding his life and early death, Morrison is regarded by music critics and fans as one of the most influential frontmen in rock history.

Since his death, his fame has endured as one of popular culture’s top rebellious and oft-displayed icons, representing the generation gap and youth counterculture.

Video: 'Jim Morrison's Childhood: The Doors Documentary'

Together with pianist Ray Manzarek, Morrison founded the Doors in 1965 in Venice, California. The group spent two years in obscurity until shooting to prominence with their number-one hit single in the United States, “Light My Fire,” taken from their self-titled debut album.

Morrison recorded a total of six studio albums with the Doors, all of which sold well and many of which received critical acclaim. He was well known for improvising spoken word poetry passages while the band played live. Manzarek said Morrison “embodied hippie counterculture rebellion.”

Video: 'Interview with Jim Morrison's father and sister'

Morrison developed an alcohol dependency throughout his life, which at times affected his performances on stage.

In 1971, Morrison died unexpectedly in a Paris apartment at the age of 27, amid several conflicting witness reports. His untimely death is often linked with the 27 Club. Since no autopsy was performed, the cause of Morrison’s death remains disputed.