Laurel Canyon

Laurel Canyon is a neighborhood tucked away in the hills of Los Angeles. It is one winding street with small side streets, filled with looming trees and steep cliffs. The area became a hideaway for musicians and artists to escape the chaos of the Hollywood life. Many infamous stars inhabited the canyon in the 60s and 70s like Joni Mitchell, the Mommas & Pappas, The Byrds, Frank Zappa, Carol King, Jimmi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young. This elite group of musicians would have jam sessions and experimental with each other musically. The canyon became the hotspot of Los Angeles because it was hidden and maintained a unique California vibe.

Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young rehearsing for Woodstock in Laurel Canyon (1969)

5 Songs to Transport You to Laurel Canyon:

1. The Mammas & Pappas- California Dreamin'

2. Joni Mitchell- Both Sides Now 

3. Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young- Suite Judy Blue Eyes

4. The Byrds- Eight Miles High

5. Jimmi Hendrix- All Along the Watchtower

Joni Mitchell in her Laurel Canyon Cottage (1967)

The Rolling Stones in Laurel Canyon (1969)

Laurel Canyon today is just as magical as it was in the 60s and 70s. You probably won't see Mick Jagger or Joni Mitchell in the canyon, although you may run into George Clooney. Listen to Global DJs and Benny Benassi's remix of "California Dreamin" for a fresh upbeat remix of the classic song.

Laurel Canyon Present Day


I obtained these pictures and information from the book, Laurel Canyon: the Inside Story of Rock n Roll's Legendary Neighborhood. It's an amazing source of information, check it out for more details!