The Life and Tragic End of All-American Singer John Denver

Colorado Governor Richard Lamm named Denver the state’s poet laureate in 1977. The designation was unusual for a popular singer, but it reflected how strongly his lyrics had become associated with Colorado’s landscape and identity.

By then, “Rocky Mountain High” functioned almost like an unofficial state anthem, while Denver’s Aspen home and environmental work deepened the connection. The honor confirmed that he represented more than commercial music within Colorado. His next major step would take him from the mountains onto the movie screen.