The song "Monterey" by Eric Burdon & The Animals is a tribute to the famous Monterey Pop Festival that took place in June 1967 in Monterey, California. The festival is considered a landmark event in music history, as it showcased some of the biggest names in rock and pop music at the time. In the lyrics, the song describes the atmosphere and experiences of those who attended the festival. It begins by mentioning how people came to listen to the music, some even performed, and others gave flowers away. It captures the joy and excitement of the crowd, emphasizing the positive and celebratory spirit that filled Monterey during the festival. The song mentions several notable artists who performed at the festival. The Byrds, Jefferson Airplane, Ravi Shankar, The Who, Hugh Masekela, The Grateful Dead, and Jimi Hendrix were all part of the lineup. The lyrics highlight the impact of their performances, with descriptions like "The Who exploded into fired light" and how "Jimi Hendrix set the world on fire." The song also references the diverse and inclusive nature of the festival. It mentions how "religion was being born" and how people from different backgrounds and beliefs came together to enjoy the music. It touches on the power of music to unite and create a sense of understanding among people, even mentioning that the police officers at the festival were grooving with the crowd. Overall, "Monterey" is a celebration of the memorable moments and the significance of the Monterey Pop Festival, paying homage to the artists and the sense of unity and joy that prevailed during that time.
