Land of Enchantment

Welcome to New Mexico; A place where rock formations erupt out of the flat lands or where one can get lost in the fields of crops. From top to bottom, New Mexico is full of open skies and beauty, although, it may take a special eye to fully appreciate its beauty. From its diverse beauty to its unique culture, one can understand why New Mexico is known for the “Land of Enchantment”.

Compton and Detroit seem to be the big cities where many great artists are born and made. Yet, many don't know that some of the great classics and today's musicians are from New Mexico. Most don’t know that the artists John Denver and Demi Lovato were born in New Mexico. Also, many might not know that Jim Morrison lived in New Mexico while growing up.

One of my mom’s all time favorite singer is John Denver. John Denver was born at Roswell, New Mexico in 1943. It was in the 60’s when he made his big appearance as a folk singer. He and his band released over 300 songs, and John Denver wrote 200 of those. Some of his well known songs are Take Me Home, Country Road, Annie’s Song, Rocky Mountain High, and Thank God I’m a Country Boy. Not only was John Denver a talented artist, but he got involved with politics and campaigns. He also was a helping hand in several humanitarian projects. John Denver loved being in the great outdoors and flying. He was a pilot for many years and unfortunately, died in 1997 due to an airplane accident.

Demi Lovato was born at Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1992. She first appeared in Barney & Friends, but Demi Lovato made her big break singing and acting in Disney Channel’s Camp Rock. She continued on acting and singing. Demi Lovato isn’t one of my favorite music artists, but I hold high respect for her. She has dealt with depression, eating disorders, and self harm. Demi Lovato went into rehab in 2010. It was a rocky road, but she has been sober since 2013. Recently, Demi Lovato has released her song Cool for the Summer.

Jim Morrison, better known as the lead singer and songwriter for The Doors. Jim Morrison was born in 1943. He wasn’t native to New Mexico, but lived in Albuquerque for a time during his childhood. Jim Morrison is regarded to be one of the most iconic and influential in rock history. He and his band The Doors are best known for the songs Light My Fire, Break on Through (To The Other Side), Riders On the Storm, L.A. Woman, and several others. In 1971, Jim Morrison died of a suspected overdose, but no autopsy was done.

From the roads of New Mexico, to the farmers market, to the history of the state, I have found that New Mexico is truly the "Land of Enchantment".  “When you turn around, you'll see something I bet you've never seen before. If it takes your breath away, then you'll fit in nicely. If you don't feel anything, then maybe you don't belong here.” --Veronica Randolph Batterson, Daniel's Esperanza