Believe it or not, even though this was one of The Monkees' biggest hits, it was written by Neil Diamond. The version that was in Shrek was done by the band Smash Mouth, a great 90s band you REALLY should react to at some point ("Walking on the Sun", "When the Morning Comes", and "All Star" - which they also used in Shrek). As for The Monkees, you'll love "Pleasant Valley Sunday", "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You", and "Valleri." Great choice. So sad that of the four Monkees, only Micky is still with us.
As I'm sure many people will point out, Neil Diamind wrote this song. Dude is a prolific song writer! Smash Mouth performed the song in Shrek as a cover, but technically the Monkees version is also a cover of Neil's original.
The Smash Mouth version is great! This (the original) is great for the sixties, but the Smash Mouth version sounds richer. Great song, though. Neil Diamond wrote this before he hit big.
Technically, Neil Diamond recorded the song after The Monkeys did, but it was released the month before the episode of the show. So calling either the original or cover, is a matter of perspective.
The only surviving member is Micky Dolenz who sang” I’m A Believer”, and “Last Train to Clarksville” and Davy Jones sang “ Daydream Believer”. Michael Nesmith was credited with being involved with MTV and wrote Linda Ronstadt’s song when she was in the Stone Ponies as a teenager, “Different Drum”. My favorite Michael Nesmith song is “ You Just May Be the One” and he sang it on one of the Monkees TV show. The NY media created the negative press around the Monkees and said they were copying the Beatles which was not true. The Monkees were fun in the 1960’s and Micky Dolenz was an actor in “Circus Boy” before he was tapped to be a Monkee. I’m 68 years old and watched every Monkee show, had all their albums and enjoyed their slapstick comedy. They were harmless and the media had to create a problem that was never there.
@@williamjordan5554 The original poster is correct, though, the media created this controversy, and it's been perpetuated through the years. The reality is The Beatles never begrudged The Monkees for the gig they got, and they were quoted on many occasions as digging the comedy, and always kind to them in public. Michael Nesmith was a guest musician on A Day In the Life, he can be seen on the official music video.
I'm not debating you on the fact they auditioned for it, I'll even go a step further and only 2 of them were actually talented musicians when they were hired, Jones had musical stage experience and Dolenz was a child actor, but they did grow into their roles nicely. My point is, everyone brings it up as controversial, and it just wasn't. Yes, they were a group of guys who auditioned for a gig, and most of their songs were written for them, and largely performed by session musicians in the beginning, but slowly they gained some creative control.
The Monkee's version was a massive hit, Neil Diamond wrote it for them. (The Shrek version is a cover by Smashmouth) The Monkees had great songwriters--Neil Diamond, Carol King, Boyce and Hart, Harry Nilsson, and wrote some of their own records. Lots and lots of talent participated. A rabbit hole well worth exploring.
The B-side to I’m A Believer was I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone, a gnarly garage rocker. Valleri was a fuzzy garage rocker. A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You was another Neil Diamond-penned hit. Last Train to Clarksville was a folk rock hit. Randy Scouse Git was very Beatle-ish. Love Is Only Sleeping is a psychedelic favorite of mine. And You Just May Be The One (the TV version) was a short rocker by the late Michael Nesmith, who also wrote Mary Mary and Sweet Young Thing.
This was the band that had tons of 80s kids wishing they were alive in the late 60s. The Monkees had a HUGE resurgence in 1986 due to their tv show being replayed on Nickelodeon and MTV. The original band members even did a reunion tour! “Daydream Believer” even made it back on the top 100 pop charts at # 86. I was 11 years old, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
Yes, 1986! I was eight years old and got to see them on the tour they did that year. It was the first concert I ever went to. It was so much fun to see them live, and Weird Al was the opening act, which was also awesome.
As other people have said, Neil Diamond wrote this song, The Monkees had a big hit with it in the 60's. The version in Shrek is a cover by Smash Mouth. I really like The Monkees version the best, myself. Thanks for reacting---I enjoy your channel & videos very much! You both make me smile!!!
Don Kirchner produced the TV show, was THE star maker of pop music then. He hired the best song writers of the time to write for the group. The other side of this was "Steppin' Stone,
Yep, Ellen, American pop rock band Smash Mouth covered the song in 2001 as part of the soundtrack to the movie Shrek, along with "All Star". The band also released the song on its self-titled album. Eddie Murphy, portraying the character Donkey, also performed a rendition of the song in the film.
The Monkees were a pretty big thing back in the 60s. I remember watching the series on TV. They were brought together for the show, but nobody, not even them, nor the makers of the show, thought they would be as big as they were. Sadly only Mickey (drummer) is still with us. 🎙🎵❤🇺🇸🇬🇧
This song "I'm A Believer" was the Monkees biggest hit back in 1966. Their other big hits were "A Little Bit of Me and a Little bit of You" (1967), "look Out Here Comes Tomorrow" (1967). All of these songs were written by the great singer/songwriter Neil Diamond.
"I'm a Believer" was the biggest hit by just about anybody (including the Beatles) back in '66. For a while, you couldn't go anywhere without hearing this song.
Written by Neil Diamond. My favorite Monkees song is Pleasant Valley Sunday. That one has more social commentary than there usual stuff. For more 60s (and early 70s) pop, try The Grass Roots. Maybe Sooner or Later, Temptation Eyes, Wait a Million Years, or or Midnight Confession. Anything off their greatest hits collection would be good.
The Monkees were great vocalists, Micky Dolenz in particular. Even their theme song "(Theme From) The Monkees" was a great listen. They had a ton of songs worth hearing.
Last Train to Clarksville, Stepping Stone, Saturday’s Child,Shades of Gray,Pleasant Valley Sunday etc. The Monkees were a make believe made for television pop rock group 66-69 that became a real group.
J & Amber, you'll love their "Pleasant Valley Sunday" and "A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You" !! You've now done their 3 best songs, imo! Pleasant Valley Sunday written by Carole King/Gerry Goffin, and A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You written by Neil Diamond!
@@bethmiller1840 props to Gerry Goffin too! Carole early hit songs were written with one-time husband Gerry Goffin. for example- The Shirelles "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and Aretha Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman"!
The Monkees were doing music vids before anyone else in the music industry. But no one in the 60's had any idea music vids would come back in the 70's and 80's.
Here’s a Monkees’ song no one else will suggest: Goin’ Down. You’ll really hear Mickey’s scat type talent in this fast paced, jazzy adventure. Most vibrant thing they ever made.
I grew up listening to the Monkees music & watching their show. They could act silly but they actually were decent musicians & singers. They had many hits. "Last Train to Clarksville", "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You" (written by Neil Diamond), "Valleri", "Pleasant Valley Sunday", & "Daydream Believer". Davy Jones was considered a teenage heart throb. Sadly he died in 2012 & later Peter Tork in 2019. Only 1 member is remaining now Micky Dolenz. Michael Nesmith passed away recently.
The Monkees were adorable! I was 11 when their tv show first aired. The perfect age to fall in love with a boy band. If you haven’t listened to their thyme song, it’s a lot of fun. And I’ll bet a lot us out here can still remember every word. Pleasant Valley Sunday is another one of their hits
The Monkees were put together as a TELEVISION show. Davy and Micky had acting backgrounds. Mike and Peter had music backgrounds. These guys eventually became a “real” band - because they were SO INCREDIBLY POPULAR in the 60s. They also had a HUGE revival in the 80s!
You know who else auditioned for the Monkees tv show but was beat out by Peter...his buddy Stephen Stills ( of Crosby, Stills and Nash fame ). Peter was also a musician and knew Stephen, and actually suggested to him that he should audition.
I loved The Monkees and never missed their TV show. I had all their vinyl record albums. Some of my song suggestions are "Words", "For Pete's Sake", "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow), "Love Is Only Sleeping", "Shades Of Gray", "Early Morning Blues And Greens", "Dream World", "When Love Comes Knockin' (At Your Door), "What Am I Doing Hangin' Round?" and my favorite Monkee song, "Hard To Believe". And if you want to hear one of their lighter comical songs, listen to "Gonna Buy Me A Dog". I know it's a big list but they have so many great songs I could have added much more.
Wow! I loved the Monkies I discovered them in the 80's. I thought I knew a lot of their songs, but I idn't know any that you mentioned. My favorites stepping stone, last train to clarsville, pleasant valley sunday.
I loved The Monkees, the show yes, but especially the music. Shades of Gray, Mary Mary, Stepping Stone, all of it. Bet your kiddos would enjoy their old shows, they were so silly.
In 1966 I use to hear I'm A Believer on the car radio. At the time my mom drove a 1962 Oldsmobile F-85 I was 6 years old at the time. In 1966 we lived in Daly City California and my cousins lived in Pacifica. Every time I hear this song it's like I'm in a car with my mom and headed back to Daly City at night on the freeway after visiting with my cousins in Pacifica. During this time I also remember Georgy Girl by the Seekers
Written by Neil Diamond (it’s been said he even sang backup on some Monkees’ tracks), it is arguably the most aired record of the 1960s. It was #1 on the Billboard charts for 7 weeks, and covered decades later by other artists.
When I was 7 my mom took me to my first concert, and it was the Monkees (mid 1980's). From then on, I was hooked! Then they started playing their show as reruns on MTV. LOVE! 💖💖 My kids are adults now (18 & 22), but I introduced them to this band and the show when they were little. It is family friendly, so funny and filled with their songs. I highly recommend sharing it with your children.
I SO much agree with this, I think the kids (and parents!) would adore the TV show. I defy anyone 'of a certain age' to not be transported back to their childhood when they hear: BA-DUM Here we come. TSH-T-TSH, TSH-T-TSH Walkin' down the street...
...then I saw her face (about it), now I'm a believer (about it), without a trace (about it), of doubt in my mind (about it), etc., is how we sang it in my first garage band in the summer of '68! Still love this song and this cover (when I sing background). Check out their "Pleasant Valley Sunday" as well as "She", which were sung by Mickey Dolenz.
That “60s” sound you refer to is so right. What made “the sound” was many of the pop bands who recorded in LA used many of the same session musicians. And there was a corps of musicians called “The Wrecking Crew” that not only backed the Monkees but also The Beach Boys, Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Righteous Brothers, and even Frank Sinatra and his daughter, Nancy. There were a lot more artists who recorded at the same studios and used the same producers and musicians.
The monkeys were my older sister’s favorite group as a teenager. They were the original boy band. Put together through screen tests for the part. They were TVs answer to the Beatles. Eventually they did learn to play their own instruments and write some of their music.
@gigi v, it doesn't matter what they "could" play, they *didn't* play their own instruments in their early years. They used studio musicians, just like dozens of other famous singers and groups did, including the Beach Boys. Search RUclips for the documentary on the Wrecking Crew.
@gigi v Oddly Davy actually had experience behind the kit, but they thought he was too short, so it went to Micky. They could have just put him on a riser.
@Brutally Goofy Buddha - Part of the reason was that the producers wanted music fast, so they had studio musicians and Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart do the instruments and backing vocals before the parts were even cast. Then all they had to do was drop in the lead vocal (Micky's or Davy's mostly) to have a song ready to put in the show. But the camel had its nose under the tent flap when they let Papa Nes do "Papa Gene's Blues" on the first album.
The song in Shrek is a cover by Smash Mouth. " The Monkees" was a TV show for two years in the 60's. A lot of people dis the Monkees because they were a band created for the show. It's not clear to me if they played the instruments but it is definitely their voices singing all the songs. Davy Jones (the tamborine player) was a huge heart-throb. It was so fun!
The Monkees started out only singing, but they began playing their own instruments partly after they demanded to do it, even though the creators of the band/TV show didn't want it. So later albums they played and even started writing some of their own songs. They are really a good band and don't deserve the flak they got back them.
Oh gosh...... hey, hey we're The Monkees...... :) they were quite the craze back in the day. They were a constructed group for a TV show, which became quite popular. The girls went mad for Davy Jones.
"I'm a Believer" is a song composed (music and lyrics) by Neil Diamond. It was gifted to the Monkees who recorded and released it in 1966. Honestly, Neil Diamond's own live interpretation of it is a thousand times more intense and vibrant. Thanks to you two.
The Shrek version isn't the Monkees. Good ear Miss Amber! The lead singer on this one is Mickey Dolenz, now the only surviving member of the band. The man is still touring and he is wonderful.
Jim Croce - “Operator (Thats Not The Way It Feels)” John Denver - “Country Roads, Take me Home” Van Morrison - “Tupelo Honey” “Crazy Love” “And The Healing Has Begun”
Rob your right...here u go "I'm a Believer" is a song written by Neil Diamond and was recorded by The Monkees in 1966. It was a U.S. Billboard Hot 100 hit for seven weeks. In Shrek, Donkey sings the song during Shrek and Fiona's wedding. The song was also included in the soundtrack for the movie, performed by Smash Mouth.
The Monkees: They had previous experience as musicians Michael Nesmith (skilled guitarist and bassist), Peter Tork (played several.stringed and keyboard instruments), Davy Jones (knew how to play the drums). He tested well, but because of his short statute, he might get hidden the drum set. Davey sang and acted in Oliver in Britian. Mickey Dolenz (knew how to play the guitar) but was assigned to play the drums. Peter taught him a few beats on the drums. Enough to fake his way on filming the pilot show. But he really did learn to play the drums properly. In the show Mike (guitar), Peter (bass), Davey (frontman, singer and percussionist), Mickey (drums). Peter was a more experienced guitarist. Mike was better on bass. Davy had a strong voice. Mickey sang sometimes. Michael believed that Mickey's voice was more distinctive and a hallmark of the Monkees sound. Producer Don Kirshner didn't want them to actually play the instruments. He had a studio band do the playing. Eventually the got control and stated to play. Well that is some of the back story of "Hey, hey we're the Monkees, people say we monkey around, " A suggestion listen to the The Monkees TV show theme song.
The Monkees began as a fictional pop group - in such a popular comedy show known as "The Monkees" - but eventually became a pop group in every way. My favourite song from the Monkees was "Look Out! Here Comes Tomorrow". I loved that smooth beat and rhythm - though I tended to relate to the lyrics (which I hardly understood as a child) when close to the school exams when I expected to do badly - "Oh how I wish tomorrow would never come!"
Glad you finally got to The Monkees. Highly recommend their song "Shades of Gray" Insanely timely this day in age perhaps more that it was in the 60s. Also the version from Shrek is Smash Mouth's cover
So, this is the original version of the song. "Shrek" covered it. Mickey Dolenz, of the Monkees, likes to say, "I was singing this LONG before Shrek!!!" LOL Anyway, this was one of the early songs that put the Monkees on the map ... this and "Last Train to Clarksville." They were big hits.
My mom was born in 1960, and I was born in 74. My brother in 81. I will never forget my mom introducing me to the Monkees, the Beatles, Elvis, and a million other older bands and artists. She was really into music and had a collection of over 400 original 45's. They traveled with me for years until my mom bought an jukebox, and I gave them back to her to fill it up. My first concert at age 15 was The Monkees. They were older, but my mom surprised me with tickets. A few months later, I saw Lenny Kravitz open for Tom Petty third row. I thank my lucky stars that my mom was so into music, and passed it on to me.
Because of the way they were formed The Monkees got a reputation as a “manufactured” band. Today it wouldn’t matter, but back then it did. It’s a shame because the product was good and Mickey Dolenz had one of the best voices in sixties music✌️
Having survived the ‘60s I can report this was on the charts and was played on all the AM radio stations. It charted but don’t remember where it wound up on the charts! Neil Diamond was leaving the theatre after watching ‘Shrek’. Some kids were outside singing this song and he joined them and sang along with them!
Yeah! Their kids would get a kick out of how cartoonish they could be. Episode Suggestions: "Fairytale" and "Monkee Vs Machine" would be fun for kids. They also had a halloween episode "I was a Teenage Monster" with Lurch from The Addams Family, and "The Christmas Show" episode with Eddie from The Munsters.
They are one hilarious group!!!! I grew up watching their show in the early 80's... SOOO FUNNY!! Yes.. They had a show called "The Monkees" and it showed just how funny these 4 guys really were!! You should check it out if you ever get the chance!! They are the definition of GOOFY!! LMAO
I love the Monkees and loved the TV show. The show was about an unsuccessful band but in real life they became an extremely successful band. They had to fight for their own creative rights, which they did, and had a resurgence of popularity when MTV ran the series in the 80s and they released another album and TV special which resulted in a highly popular tour. The Monkees have had many reuniting tours including a relatively recent reuniting of Micky Dolenz and Mike Nesmith in a farewell tour that ended just weeks before the death of Nesmith. Micky Dolenz is the last surviving member after the deaths of Davy Jones in 2012, Peter Tork in 2019 and Mike Nesmith in 2021. RIP.
This is definitely pre-teen bubblegum pop. Not sophisticated, but just plain old fun. Lots of nostalgia to be had listening to the Monkees. Enjoyed your reaction to this song!
When I was 10, my dad built me a crystal radio. In early 1967, I would lay in bed at bedtime listening to the top songs and this was one of the ones that came on every night. Good memories!
Unfortunately, I'm old enough to remember watching their show in prime time. They once had Jimi Hendrix as their opening act. Next songs to do- She, Words,Valeri, Look Out Here Comes Tomorrow, Mary Mary.......
Diamond gave three tunes to Kirshner,the others included "Love To Love" and "A Little Bit Me,A Little Bit You" and added "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow)".
When I'm down, I put on any Monkee's song and I'm transported back to a time of happiness and bliss. While I'm a Davy fan, I LOVE Mikey Dolenz's voice. Mary, Mary and Last Train to Clarksville are two of my favorites.
The Monkees have one of the absolute hardest songs ever to sing. MIckey Dolenz sings it. Its called "Goin Down". You wont regret giving it a listen, and youll be amazed :)
Micky Dolenz sings lead on this one. I find that his voice is the one I like the best. The Monkees released an album a few years ago with songs written by Rivers Cuomo of Weezer and Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie. Such a great album. My suggestions are: “As we go Along” from Head, “She” and “Look Out (here comes tomorrow” from Monkees 2nd album, “Pleasant Valley Sunday” from Pisces, Aquarius… and lastly from the album Good Times “ Me and Magdalena” and “Birth of an Accidental Hipster” sorry this is long. I love them.
I watched their TV show as a kid growing up in the 60s used to love it every week me and three of my friends used to pretend we were the Monkees we sang in a church choir group and for some stress relief the four of us used to break out into a monkey song every once in a while Very much appreciate your channel. Watch it a lot. Enjoy a lot of your songs that you play because I grew up with a lot of this music.😅
I always liked Mike, the quiet mellow one. He was the one that actually wrote songs. He wrote some good ones for the Monkees,, and his "Joanne" was greatest, but his most famous song was made popular by the great Linda Ronstadt. "Different Drum". Yep, Mike Nesmith wrote that! song.
I'm sure it's already been mentioned, but all the Monkees songs from the TV series were recorded using a crack team professional musicians known as 'the wrecking crew' - of which Glen Campbell was a member at one point. Most of the memorable guitar parts were played by Louie Shelton, and there are some vids on RUclips of him playing the famous parts of Valerie and Last train to Clarksville.
Jay and Amber you guys are killing it on both your channels your taste in music and film is awesome, I can't express how much nostalgia I feel when watching your reactions and today's reaction was no exception despite the Yankee gear (Red Sox fan) lol but I wanted to say THANK YOU for making this old man feel like a youngster again....
Speaking of Nostalgia, I get high from this channel. Not only do I get to revisit some of the best days of my past, but I have much better appreciation for it & the music is a huge part of that.
The Monkees made up of two child actors Mickey Dolenz from Los Angeles, David Jones from Manchester England,and two musicians Peter Tork from Washington DC, and Michael Nesmith from Texas. They were 4 of many who auditioned for a tv series about a fictional rock band. Dolenz the lone Monkees survivor was on a tv series when he was a kid called Circus Boy. David Jones whose instant teen heartthrob status in 1966,would cause another David Jones to change his name to Bowie,had earned a Tony nomination for Best Supporting actor as the Artful Dodger in the musical Oliver, Michael Nesmith whose mom Bette invented liquid paper,wrote Different Drum for Linda Ronstadt and the Stone Ponies in 67, Tork a Greenwich Village folk musician auditioned at the request of friend Stephen Stills who also auditioned.
Davy was an old song and dance actor. He taught Micky to play drums. Micky was also a GOOD guitar player as well. Headquarters was ALL their music with all of them playing.
@@paulwagner688 yes,and, I don't understand why it's always called a flop. It was # 1 for two weeks,then dropped to #2, when Sargeant Peppper came out. They both stayed in those positions for 3 months. I'd say that being #2 only to the Beatles was darned successful,at that time!
Jimi Hendrix got his first real fame as he opened for the Monkees on one of their tours. The music of Hendrix was so much different than the Monkees that it took a while to get Hendrix noticed. Also, the Monkees pushed very hard to the Woodstock promotors in Hendix's behalf to include him Michael Nesmith, the guitar player for them, his mother invented LIQUID PAPER correction fluid and made millions
You’re 💯 correct, Amber! Neil Diamond wrote the song the Monkees made into a hit in 1966 . Smash Mouth covered in Shrek. I’m sure others here have already noted. Love the Monkees version the best! (although Smash Mouth good & more my era) 😉
My friend told me she hated how I turn everything into a Monkees song. At first, I couldn't understand, but then I saw her face, and now I'm a believer.
There were a few songs written by Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork. Peter and Mike were also musicians, Mickey Dolenz played some drums and sang most of their biggest hits. Davy Jones shook a mean tambourine, maracas, and sang lead on a few songs. They were hired for a TV series about a musical group. They all could sing. Their nickname was the Pre-fab Four, a takeoff on The Beatles nickname, the Fab Four. Their show was funny. It showcased their songs. Eventually they toured just like other rock bands (Jimi Hendrix was their opening act for their first tour). They were fun! ♥️
"Shades Of Grey, (I'm Not Your) Steppin Stone, You Just Might Be The One, Oh My My, Going Down, Valerie, Words, D.W. Washburn, She Hangs Out" There are a lot of bangers.
The Monkees sure hold a spot in my heart, they even made a cameo reunion on the show Boy Meets World from the 90s (where I believe one of them was playing Topanga's father) and they played a couple songs. Still remember watching that as a kid 💚
Peter Tork played Jedidiah Lawrence for 2 episodes. Michael McKean and Mark Harelik also played Jedidiah at various times throughout the shows run. Though Pete definitely felt the the most authentic since he's such a hippie.
My goodness -- My sister and I would play this over and over and over -- The B side of the 45 record was Im Not Your Steppin Stone --- We had our walls in our bedroom covered in Monkee photos -- Peter was my favorite --- Davey was my sisters -- Their show was silly but they were cute and playful -- never missed a show -- They were chosen for their looks and personalities but they did have some real talent too -- like someone else said Neil Diamond wrote this song and If you havent reacted to him yet you should as he has a great voice -- Try Song Sung Blue
Another fun fact: The Monkees, according to their members, said that Davy should have been the drummer because he was a very good percussionist, and that Mickey should have been out front as he was the best singer. "In DVD commentary tracks included in the Season One release, Nesmith admitted that Tork was better at playing guitar than bass. In Tork's commentary he stated that Jones was a good drummer, and had the live performance lineups been based solely on playing ability, it should have been Tork on guitar, Nesmith on bass and Jones on drums, with Dolenz taking the fronting role." -Wiki
A few years back I had the pleasure of meeting Davy Jones on a few occasions, and I thanked him for being part of my childhood, he was truly a very kind person and he loved the time he spent with the others in the band. The gift of laughter and music he gave so many made a huge difference in the world, sadly Dolenz is the only living member left of the group, but even though they are gone, they will always be part of my best memories, and will forever live in my heart.
Davey Jones (the lead singer) was a very good dancer. He performed on the stage in Oliver and did several other dancing skits throughout his career. One, you should see for yourself is called "Daddy's Song".
I discovered The Monkees when MTV started playing their TV show. There were marathons of the show and I loved it. I bought several of their albums. I like "Last Train to Clarksville" and "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow)" and "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You."
I'm a Believer" is a song written by Neil Diamond and recorded by the Monkees in 1966 with the lead vocals by Micky Dolenz. The single, produced by Jeff Barry , hit the number-one spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart for the week ending December 31, 1966, and remained there for seven weeks. Shrek is a 2001 American computer-animated fantasy comedy film loosely based on the 1990 children's picture book of the same name by William Steig. American pop rock band Smash Mouth covered the song in 2001 as part of the soundtrack to the movie Shrek, along with "All Star". The band also released the song on its self-titled album. Eddie Murphy, portraying the character Donkey, also performed a rendition of the song in the film.
Believe it or not, even though this was one of The Monkees' biggest hits, it was written by Neil Diamond. The version that was in Shrek was done by the band Smash Mouth, a great 90s band you REALLY should react to at some point ("Walking on the Sun", "When the Morning Comes", and "All Star" - which they also used in Shrek). As for The Monkees, you'll love "Pleasant Valley Sunday", "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You", and "Valleri." Great choice. So sad that of the four Monkees, only Micky is still with us.
Eddie Murphy also sang this in character as Donkey in Shrek
Also Monkees not your stepping stone and Randy souse git
Now that you say that, I can nearly hear him sing this. It has his lyric phrasing
Great Monkees suggestions, but like Patrick said, and I have mentioned before, you need to do some 90's!!
@@1monki Yes, his version is not very different.
As I'm sure many people will point out, Neil Diamind wrote this song. Dude is a prolific song writer! Smash Mouth performed the song in Shrek as a cover, but technically the Monkees version is also a cover of Neil's original.
Neil Diamond is on his farewell tour. He has Parkinson’s Disease….
@@drieuxkoeppel8152 Not quite sure, but I think he is already off the road permanently
@@drieuxkoeppel8152 Saw him in concert a few years ago, right before the pandemic. He was terrific, still going well his 70s. Great showman.
The Smash Mouth version is great! This (the original) is great for the sixties, but the Smash Mouth version sounds richer. Great song, though. Neil Diamond wrote this before he hit big.
Technically, Neil Diamond recorded the song after The Monkeys did, but it was released the month before the episode of the show. So calling either the original or cover, is a matter of perspective.
The only surviving member is Micky Dolenz who sang” I’m A Believer”, and “Last Train to Clarksville” and Davy Jones sang “ Daydream Believer”. Michael Nesmith was credited with being involved with MTV and wrote Linda Ronstadt’s song when she was in the Stone Ponies as a teenager, “Different Drum”. My favorite Michael Nesmith song is “ You Just May Be the One” and he sang it on one of the Monkees TV show. The NY media created the negative press around the Monkees and said they were copying the Beatles which was not true. The Monkees were fun in the 1960’s and Micky Dolenz was an actor in “Circus Boy” before he was tapped to be a Monkee. I’m 68 years old and watched every Monkee show, had all their albums and enjoyed their slapstick comedy. They were harmless and the media had to create a problem that was never there.
You just may like this cover of the Nesmith song. ruclips.net/video/h9FbqUDLY4E/видео.html
The Monkees were definitely patterned after the Beatles. This is well-documented. The members were cast for the TV show.
@@williamjordan5554 The original poster is correct, though, the media created this controversy, and it's been perpetuated through the years. The reality is The Beatles never begrudged The Monkees for the gig they got, and they were quoted on many occasions as digging the comedy, and always kind to them in public. Michael Nesmith was a guest musician on A Day In the Life, he can be seen on the official music video.
@@Wungolioth Just research the show's origin. This isn't up for debate.
I'm not debating you on the fact they auditioned for it, I'll even go a step further and only 2 of them were actually talented musicians when they were hired, Jones had musical stage experience and Dolenz was a child actor, but they did grow into their roles nicely. My point is, everyone brings it up as controversial, and it just wasn't. Yes, they were a group of guys who auditioned for a gig, and most of their songs were written for them, and largely performed by session musicians in the beginning, but slowly they gained some creative control.
This song is reason number 498 that The Monkees should be in the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.
The Monkee's version was a massive hit, Neil Diamond wrote it for them. (The Shrek version is a cover by Smashmouth) The Monkees had great songwriters--Neil Diamond, Carol King, Boyce and Hart, Harry Nilsson, and wrote some of their own records. Lots and lots of talent participated. A rabbit hole well worth exploring.
The writing geniuses at what was known as the Brill Building!
Boyce and Hart
This is Micky Dolenz lead singing, the drummer..he was always my favourite Monkee.
And, sadly, the only Monkee we have left.
He was mine too, I had a big crush on him. Lol
Mike Nesmith was my favorite. I’m a 2nd or 3rd generation Monkees fan, born in the 80’s. Mike was my first crush, watching those reruns.
I had the pleasure of meeting him and making him uncomfortable at a convention once many years ago.
The last living member of the Monkees keeping their Music memory alive.
The B-side to I’m A Believer was I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone, a gnarly garage rocker. Valleri was a fuzzy garage rocker. A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You was another Neil Diamond-penned hit. Last Train to Clarksville was a folk rock hit. Randy Scouse Git was very Beatle-ish. Love Is Only Sleeping is a psychedelic favorite of mine. And You Just May Be The One (the TV version) was a short rocker by the late Michael Nesmith, who also wrote Mary Mary and Sweet Young Thing.
Paul Revere and the Raiders did the original and FAR superior version of "I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone" It's on their Midnight Ride album.
It’s not superior, it’s okay. Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart wrote it, they just gave it to the Raiders as well as the Monkees.
"She" was another great Boyce and Hart penned tune for the monkeys!
Forgot about that song. It’s a banger for sure.
This was the band that had tons of 80s kids wishing they were alive in the late 60s. The Monkees had a HUGE resurgence in 1986 due to their tv show being replayed on Nickelodeon and MTV. The original band members even did a reunion tour! “Daydream Believer” even made it back on the top 100 pop charts at # 86. I was 11 years old, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
The 70s kids also ,,, Im a big fan of 60s and 70s Not so much 80s and 90s
Yes!! I was one of those “kids” in the 80s who joined in the Monkeemania! Ha ha. I was 19 years old. It was the best time of my life. :)
Yes, 1986! I was eight years old and got to see them on the tour they did that year. It was the first concert I ever went to. It was so much fun to see them live, and Weird Al was the opening act, which was also awesome.
As other people have said, Neil Diamond wrote this song, The Monkees had a big hit with it in the 60's. The version in Shrek is a cover by Smash Mouth. I really like The Monkees version the best, myself. Thanks for reacting---I enjoy your channel & videos very much! You both make me smile!!!
Don Kirchner produced the TV show, was THE star maker of pop music then. He hired the best song writers of the time to write for the group. The other side of this was "Steppin' Stone,
I DON'T KNOW FOR SURE, BUT GLENN CAMPBELL PROBABLY PLAYED GUITAR ON IT AS PART OF "THE WRECKING CREW" STUDIO MUSICIANS.
I prefer the Neil Diamond version, more emotion!
Yep, Ellen, American pop rock band Smash Mouth covered the song in 2001 as part of the soundtrack to the movie Shrek, along with "All Star". The band also released the song on its self-titled album. Eddie Murphy, portraying the character Donkey, also performed a rendition of the song in the film.
I always thought this was a Boyce/Hart song..and was surprised when i read Diamond wrote it.
The Monkees were a pretty big thing back in the 60s. I remember watching the series on TV. They were brought together for the show, but nobody, not even them, nor the makers of the show, thought they would be as big as they were. Sadly only Mickey (drummer) is still with us. 🎙🎵❤🇺🇸🇬🇧
Many of their bigger hits had Mickey as the lead singer. Such a great voice.
11
Yes as Peter Tork predicted, Mickey is now the Monkee.
omg...... i loved watching the series as a kid
And Mickey sings lead in this song...
one of my favourite Monkees songs was written by their guitarist, Mike Nesmith... it's called "You Just May Be The One"... it's a fantastic song
Yes! Love that song! ….and Sweet Young Thing is really good too.
Love that one
I loved Mike Nesmith. He was a great writer.
neil diamond wrote this song
This song "I'm A Believer" was the Monkees biggest hit back in 1966. Their other big hits were "A Little Bit of Me and a Little bit of You" (1967), "look Out Here Comes Tomorrow" (1967). All of these songs were written by the great singer/songwriter Neil Diamond.
❤️
I was only 2 in 66,they were still popular in the 70's because I was a fan lol
"I'm a Believer" was the biggest hit by just about anybody (including the Beatles) back in '66. For a while, you couldn't go anywhere without hearing this song.
this was the biggest selling single for all of 1967.
I was going to point out the Neil Diamond factor, but you have already done so. Great song.
Written by Neil Diamond.
My favorite Monkees song is Pleasant Valley Sunday. That one has more social commentary than there usual stuff.
For more 60s (and early 70s) pop, try The Grass Roots. Maybe Sooner or Later, Temptation Eyes, Wait a Million Years, or or Midnight Confession. Anything off their greatest hits collection would be good.
The Monkees were great vocalists, Micky Dolenz in particular. Even their theme song "(Theme From) The Monkees" was a great listen. They had a ton of songs worth hearing.
Don't forget the video. Let's do the Monkees group walk... 🥴
Daydream believer Was song to Marsha Brady On The Tv show the Brady Bunch in 1972 By Davey Jones on there date ,,
Mickey Dolenz and Davy Jones almost took turns as lead singer.
right like shades of gray and last train to clarksville and pleasnt vally sunday.
LOVED these guys as a child! I was surprised to hear their music pretty consistently beat the Beatles in the US charts. Way to go Monkees!
Last Train to Clarksville, Stepping Stone, Saturday’s Child,Shades of Gray,Pleasant Valley Sunday etc. The Monkees were a make believe made for television pop rock group 66-69 that became a real group.
They were great.
love Shades of Grey
J & Amber, you'll love their "Pleasant Valley Sunday" and "A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You" !! You've now done their 3 best songs, imo! Pleasant Valley Sunday written by Carole King/Gerry Goffin, and A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You written by Neil Diamond!
I didn't know that Carol King wrote "Pleasant Valley Sunday!" I don't think J and A have reacted to any Carol King. It's a crime!!! JK, of course.
@@bethmiller1840 props to Gerry Goffin too! Carole early hit songs were written with one-time husband Gerry Goffin. for example- The Shirelles "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and Aretha Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman"!
Never missed their TV show! Still listen to them!!🤘🔥
The Monkees were doing music vids before anyone else in the music industry. But no one in the 60's had any idea music vids would come back in the 70's and 80's.
Mike Nesmith figured that out and started a company which created music videos. There are clips and interviews on RUclips.
Here’s a Monkees’ song no one else will suggest: Goin’ Down. You’ll really hear Mickey’s scat type talent in this fast paced, jazzy adventure. Most vibrant thing they ever made.
I remember as a kid sitting on the floor and watching their show….loved it! Check out “She” and “I’m not your stepping stone”
I grew up listening to the Monkees music & watching their show. They could act silly but they actually were decent musicians & singers. They had many hits. "Last Train to Clarksville", "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You" (written by Neil Diamond), "Valleri", "Pleasant Valley Sunday", & "Daydream Believer". Davy Jones was considered a teenage heart throb. Sadly he died in 2012 & later Peter Tork in 2019. Only 1 member is remaining now Micky Dolenz. Michael Nesmith passed away recently.
Mickey was always my favorite.
The Monkees were adorable! I was 11 when their tv show first aired. The perfect age to fall in love with a boy band. If you haven’t listened to their thyme song, it’s a lot of fun. And I’ll bet a lot us out here can still remember every word. Pleasant Valley Sunday is another one of their hits
So was I!
We had to go to church at times when it aired on Sundays . I was able to see it if my parents cancelled going to church for personal reasons.
I remember when The Monkees played this on their show. I was hooked. A very good band and they make me feel good.
The Monkees were put together as a TELEVISION show. Davy and Micky had acting backgrounds. Mike and Peter had music backgrounds. These guys eventually became a “real” band - because they were SO INCREDIBLY POPULAR in the 60s. They also had a HUGE revival in the 80s!
You know who else auditioned for the Monkees tv show but was beat out by Peter...his buddy Stephen Stills ( of Crosby, Stills and Nash fame ). Peter was also a musician and knew Stephen, and actually suggested to him that he should audition.
Neil Diamond was asked to write a song for The Monkees and he did this. Guy was/is a genius songwriter and performer
I loved The Monkees and never missed their TV show. I had all their vinyl record albums. Some of my song suggestions are "Words", "For Pete's Sake", "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow), "Love Is Only Sleeping", "Shades Of Gray", "Early Morning Blues And Greens", "Dream World", "When Love Comes Knockin' (At Your Door), "What Am I Doing Hangin' Round?" and my favorite Monkee song, "Hard To Believe". And if you want to hear one of their lighter comical songs, listen to "Gonna Buy Me A Dog". I know it's a big list but they have so many great songs I could have added much more.
YES! I was going to suggest I'm Gonna Buy Me a Dog! So much fun!
Zilch.
Ditto!
Wow! I loved the Monkies I discovered them in the 80's. I thought I knew a lot of their songs, but I idn't know any that you mentioned. My favorites stepping stone, last train to clarsville, pleasant valley sunday.
@@ArtofFreeSpeech That song will make somebody smile!!!
I loved The Monkees, the show yes, but especially the music. Shades of Gray, Mary Mary, Stepping Stone, all of it. Bet your kiddos would enjoy their old shows, they were so silly.
In 1966 I use to hear I'm A Believer on the car radio.
At the time my mom drove a 1962 Oldsmobile F-85
I was 6 years old at the time.
In 1966 we lived in Daly City California and my cousins lived in Pacifica.
Every time I hear this song it's like I'm in a car with my mom and headed back to Daly City at night on the freeway after visiting with my cousins in Pacifica.
During this time I also remember Georgy Girl by the Seekers
Written by Neil Diamond (it’s been said he even sang backup on some Monkees’ tracks), it is arguably the most aired record of the 1960s. It was #1 on the Billboard charts for 7 weeks, and covered decades later by other artists.
Micky Dolenz is the last Monkee still living. We lost Davy Jones in 2012, Peter Tork in 2019 and Michael Nesmith in 2021 😥
The Monkees - classic late-60's pop music at it's best. So catchy.
When I was 7 my mom took me to my first concert, and it was the Monkees (mid 1980's). From then on, I was hooked! Then they started playing their show as reruns on MTV. LOVE! 💖💖 My kids are adults now (18 & 22), but I introduced them to this band and the show when they were little. It is family friendly, so funny and filled with their songs. I highly recommend sharing it with your children.
I SO much agree with this, I think the kids (and parents!) would adore the TV show.
I defy anyone 'of a certain age' to not be transported back to their childhood when they hear:
BA-DUM
Here we come.
TSH-T-TSH, TSH-T-TSH
Walkin' down the street...
...then I saw her face (about it), now I'm a believer (about it), without a trace (about it), of doubt in my mind (about it), etc., is how we sang it in my first garage band in the summer of '68! Still love this song and this cover (when I sing background). Check out their "Pleasant Valley Sunday" as well as "She", which were sung by Mickey Dolenz.
That “60s” sound you refer to is so right. What made “the sound” was many of the pop bands who recorded in LA used many of the same session musicians. And there was a corps of musicians called “The Wrecking Crew” that not only backed the Monkees but also The Beach Boys, Paul Revere and the Raiders, the Righteous Brothers, and even Frank Sinatra and his daughter, Nancy. There were a lot more artists who recorded at the same studios and used the same producers and musicians.
The monkeys were my older sister’s favorite group as a teenager. They were the original boy band. Put together through screen tests for the part. They were TVs answer to the Beatles. Eventually they did learn to play their own instruments and write some of their music.
@gigi v, it doesn't matter what they "could" play, they *didn't* play their own instruments in their early years. They used studio musicians, just like dozens of other famous singers and groups did, including the Beach Boys. Search RUclips for the documentary on the Wrecking Crew.
@gigi v Oddly Davy actually had experience behind the kit, but they thought he was too short, so it went to Micky. They could have just put him on a riser.
@Brutally Goofy Buddha - Part of the reason was that the producers wanted music fast, so they had studio musicians and Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart do the instruments and backing vocals before the parts were even cast. Then all they had to do was drop in the lead vocal (Micky's or Davy's mostly) to have a song ready to put in the show. But the camel had its nose under the tent flap when they let Papa Nes do "Papa Gene's Blues" on the first album.
The song in Shrek is a cover by Smash Mouth. " The Monkees" was a TV show for two years in the 60's. A lot of people dis the Monkees because they were a band created for the show. It's not clear to me if they played the instruments but it is definitely their voices singing all the songs. Davy Jones (the tamborine player) was a huge heart-throb. It was so fun!
The Monkees started out only singing, but they began playing their own instruments partly after they demanded to do it, even though the creators of the band/TV show didn't want it. So later albums they played and even started writing some of their own songs. They are really a good band and don't deserve the flak they got back them.
They did not play the instruments.
Oh gosh...... hey, hey we're The Monkees...... :) they were quite the craze back in the day. They were a constructed group for a TV show, which became quite popular. The girls went mad for Davy Jones.
"I'm a Believer" is a song composed (music and lyrics) by Neil Diamond. It was gifted to the Monkees who recorded and released it in 1966. Honestly, Neil Diamond's own live interpretation of it is a thousand times more intense and vibrant. Thanks to you two.
A MUST HEAR Classic,, The Monkees "Stepping Stone"
I’m Not Your Stepping Stone is my favorite Monkees song! Mickey has such grit and passion in his lead performance.
My favorite too!
The Shrek version isn't the Monkees. Good ear Miss Amber! The lead singer on this one is Mickey Dolenz, now the only surviving member of the band. The man is still touring and he is wonderful.
The Shrek version of this song was by Smash Mouth. My first record album (yes, album) was The Monkees...when I was 2.
I was 6 when I got mine
i think the monkees greatest hits was the second cd i ever bought. first was hanson.
Saw the Monkees in concert twice. Loved it each time.
The Band that started as a TV Show, and became a National phenomenon. Performing around the World.
Jim Croce - “Operator (Thats Not The Way It Feels)”
John Denver - “Country Roads, Take me Home”
Van Morrison - “Tupelo Honey” “Crazy Love” “And The Healing Has Begun”
Yes on Jim Croce… also Time in a Bottle and Alabama Rain are among my favorites
Love The Monkee’s! Their tv show was pure slapstick comedy with songs in every episode. John Lennon was a huge fan of their show❤️
Rob your right...here u go
"I'm a Believer" is a song written by Neil Diamond and was recorded by The Monkees in 1966. It was a U.S. Billboard Hot 100 hit for seven weeks. In Shrek, Donkey sings the song during Shrek and Fiona's wedding. The song was also included in the soundtrack for the movie, performed by Smash Mouth.
And for those that actually listen and watch the end titles its in full for those
The Monkees: They had previous experience as musicians Michael Nesmith (skilled guitarist and bassist), Peter Tork (played several.stringed and keyboard instruments), Davy Jones (knew how to play the drums). He tested well, but because of his short statute, he might get hidden the drum set. Davey sang and acted in Oliver in Britian. Mickey Dolenz (knew how to play the guitar) but was assigned to play the drums. Peter taught him a few beats on the drums. Enough to fake his way on filming the pilot show. But he really did learn to play the drums properly. In the show Mike (guitar), Peter (bass), Davey (frontman, singer and percussionist), Mickey (drums). Peter was a more experienced guitarist. Mike was better on bass. Davy had a strong voice. Mickey sang sometimes. Michael believed that Mickey's voice was more distinctive and a hallmark of the Monkees sound. Producer Don Kirshner didn't want them to actually play the instruments. He had a studio band do the playing. Eventually the got control and stated to play. Well that is some of the back story of "Hey, hey we're the Monkees, people say we monkey around, "
A suggestion listen to the The Monkees TV show theme song.
Good info.
The Monkees began as a fictional pop group - in such a popular comedy show known as "The Monkees" - but eventually became a pop group in every way.
My favourite song from the Monkees was "Look Out! Here Comes Tomorrow". I loved that smooth beat and rhythm - though I tended to relate to the lyrics (which I hardly understood as a child) when close to the school exams when I expected to do badly - "Oh how I wish tomorrow would never come!"
Glad you finally got to The Monkees. Highly recommend their song "Shades of Gray" Insanely timely this day in age perhaps more that it was in the 60s. Also the version from Shrek is Smash Mouth's cover
This isn't their first Monkees reaction. They've already done Daydream Believer and Last Train to Clarksville
it's time. Love that song. Probably one of my favorites.
Shades of Grey is definitely worthy. Not often mentioned but it's a great song!
@@rowanmayfair9249 GREAT song, written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. BEST song the Monkees ever did, IMO. ruclips.net/video/D9ZxRjItD1o/видео.html
The Monkees started off as a joke, but actually turned into a pretty awesome group of capable artists. A lot of songs you still hear today.
So, this is the original version of the song. "Shrek" covered it. Mickey Dolenz, of the Monkees, likes to say, "I was singing this LONG before Shrek!!!" LOL Anyway, this was one of the early songs that put the Monkees on the map ... this and "Last Train to Clarksville." They were big hits.
Smash Mouth did the version from Shrek.
The Monkees are my favorite group. I still have my older brothers Monkees album from 1967 . He bought it the same year he went in the Air Force
They have so many great songs,.... Stepping Stone, She, Pleasant Valley Sunday,...A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit you and so many more...
I'm. Not. Your... Steppin' Stone. A MUST listen from the Monkees.
My mom was born in 1960, and I was born in 74. My brother in 81. I will never forget my mom introducing me to the Monkees, the Beatles, Elvis, and a million other older bands and artists. She was really into music and had a collection of over 400 original 45's. They traveled with me for years until my mom bought an jukebox, and I gave them back to her to fill it up. My first concert at age 15 was The Monkees. They were older, but my mom surprised me with tickets. A few months later, I saw Lenny Kravitz open for Tom Petty third row. I thank my lucky stars that my mom was so into music, and passed it on to me.
Because of the way they were formed The Monkees got a reputation as a “manufactured” band. Today it wouldn’t matter, but back then it did. It’s a shame because the product was good and Mickey Dolenz had one of the best voices in sixties music✌️
Having survived the ‘60s I can report this was on the charts and was played on all the AM radio stations. It charted but don’t remember where it wound up on the charts!
Neil Diamond was leaving the theatre after watching ‘Shrek’. Some kids were outside singing this song and he joined them and sang along with them!
One of the band members Mike Nesmith just died recently..He wrote the song for Linda Rondstant called " A different Drum"
True.
It would be fun to see you two react to the television version of The Monkee’s. Great fun with a song or two in a 1/2 hour episode.
Also they should react to the Monkeys Movie Head along with the Series
yes, yes and yes
I suggested that it would be a fun thing to do with the kids!! I'm pretty sure that the girls would love the show!!!
Yeah! Their kids would get a kick out of how cartoonish they could be. Episode Suggestions: "Fairytale" and "Monkee Vs Machine" would be fun for kids. They also had a halloween episode "I was a Teenage Monster" with Lurch from The Addams Family, and "The Christmas Show" episode with Eddie from The Munsters.
YES!!!!
Neil Diamond wrote this, and a long list of hits for himself and others
They are one hilarious group!!!! I grew up watching their show in the early 80's... SOOO FUNNY!! Yes.. They had a show called "The Monkees" and it showed just how funny these 4 guys really were!! You should check it out if you ever get the chance!! They are the definition of GOOFY!! LMAO
Yeah, the Monkees covered this song from Shrek. 35 years before Shrek
Smash Mouth did the shrek version
@@mapleleafmackem7202 Steve Harwell did a great job. Donkey did a version, too.
I love the Monkees and loved the TV show. The show was about an unsuccessful band but in real life they became an extremely successful band.
They had to fight for their own creative rights, which they did, and had a resurgence of popularity when MTV ran the series in the 80s and they released another album and TV special which resulted in a highly popular tour.
The Monkees have had many reuniting tours including a relatively recent reuniting of Micky Dolenz and Mike Nesmith in a farewell tour that ended just weeks before the death of Nesmith.
Micky Dolenz is the last surviving member after the deaths of Davy Jones in 2012, Peter Tork in 2019 and Mike Nesmith in 2021. RIP.
This is definitely pre-teen bubblegum pop. Not sophisticated, but just plain old fun. Lots of nostalgia to be had listening to the Monkees. Enjoyed your reaction to this song!
When I was 10, my dad built me a crystal radio. In early 1967, I would lay in bed at bedtime listening to the top songs and this was one of the ones that came on every night. Good memories!
Not really. More early to late teens. I was fifteen when this song hit the AM radio.
@@Littlebigbot yea, teen, nit preteen...but I imagine they liked it too.
@@Littlebigbot I was 10
@@festidious2644 I grew up with a transistor radio under my pillow... a Ben Casey pillowcase; jeez I'm old. lol
Love The Monkees! I got to see Davey Jones live about 20 years ago at Six Flags. Eddie Murphy aka Donkey sang the Shrek version.
Unfortunately, I'm old enough to remember watching their show in prime time. They once had Jimi Hendrix as their opening act. Next songs to do- She, Words,Valeri, Look Out Here Comes Tomorrow, Mary Mary.......
Diamond gave three tunes to Kirshner,the others included "Love To Love" and "A Little Bit Me,A Little Bit You" and added "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow)".
When I'm down, I put on any Monkee's song and I'm transported back to a time of happiness and bliss. While I'm a Davy fan, I LOVE Mikey Dolenz's voice. Mary, Mary and Last Train to Clarksville are two of my favorites.
The Monkees have one of the absolute hardest songs ever to sing. MIckey Dolenz sings it. Its called "Goin Down". You wont regret giving it a listen, and youll be amazed :)
I listened to it yesterday. I cannot imagine how he got all those words in there.
Reportedly he did it in one take.
Almost a rap.
Love!! Have seen him do it live a few times in his later years …. Was featured on “Breaking Bad” - now that’s some scat talent!
My favorite Monkee song
Micky Dolenz sings lead on this one. I find that his voice is the one I like the best. The Monkees released an album a few years ago with songs written by Rivers Cuomo of Weezer and Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie. Such a great album. My suggestions are: “As we go Along” from Head, “She” and “Look Out (here comes tomorrow” from Monkees 2nd album, “Pleasant Valley Sunday” from Pisces, Aquarius… and lastly from the album Good Times “ Me and Magdalena” and “Birth of an Accidental Hipster” sorry this is long. I love them.
Don't forget the great Nesmith songs--You Just May Be The One
Love Nez.
Me and Magdalena was pretty good.
also his "from the radio engine to the photon wing" good stuff 😊
I agree - for my money, Mickey's voice was the most "rock 'n' roll". Davy was great, though, ain't gonna deny!
My all time Favorite Monkees song is "Sometime in the morning" also written by Carol King. Beautiful song.
I watched their TV show as a kid growing up in the 60s used to love it every week me and three of my friends used to pretend we were the Monkees we sang in a church choir group and for some stress relief the four of us used to break out into a monkey song every once in a while Very much appreciate your channel. Watch it a lot. Enjoy a lot of your songs that you play because I grew up with a lot of this music.😅
I always liked Mike, the quiet mellow one. He was the one that actually wrote songs. He wrote some good ones for the Monkees,, and his "Joanne" was greatest, but his most famous song was made popular by the great Linda Ronstadt. "Different Drum". Yep, Mike Nesmith wrote that! song.
Mike's autobiography is a good read
I'm sure it's already been mentioned, but all the Monkees songs from the TV series were recorded using a crack team professional musicians known as 'the wrecking crew' - of which Glen Campbell was a member at one point. Most of the memorable guitar parts were played by Louie Shelton, and there are some vids on RUclips of him playing the famous parts of Valerie and Last train to Clarksville.
The Monkees were the best. I grew up on all their music. I think my mom had a crush on one of them
Jay and Amber you guys are killing it on both your channels your taste in music and film is awesome, I can't express how much nostalgia I feel when watching your reactions and today's reaction was no exception despite the Yankee gear (Red Sox fan) lol but I wanted to say THANK YOU for making this old man feel like a youngster again....
Speaking of Nostalgia, I get high from this channel. Not only do I get to revisit some of the best days of my past, but I have much better appreciation for it & the music is a huge part of that.
@@randyhpward8829 I agree...the music reminds me that my life has been one h*ll of great ride.
I'm not a Yankee fan, so I cheer for Red Sox by default (I'm in CT).
Best song the Monkees ever recorded!... I miss the sixties.. my teenage years.
ULTIMATE 60's vibe: Monkees " Pleasant Valley Sunday".
The Monkees made up of two child actors Mickey Dolenz from Los Angeles, David Jones from Manchester England,and two musicians Peter Tork from Washington DC, and Michael Nesmith from Texas. They were 4 of many who auditioned for a tv series about a fictional rock band. Dolenz the lone Monkees survivor was on a tv series when he was a kid called Circus Boy. David Jones whose instant teen heartthrob status in 1966,would cause another David Jones to change his name to Bowie,had earned a Tony nomination for Best Supporting actor as the Artful Dodger in the musical Oliver, Michael Nesmith whose mom Bette invented liquid paper,wrote Different Drum for Linda Ronstadt and the Stone Ponies in 67, Tork a Greenwich Village folk musician auditioned at the request of friend Stephen Stills who also auditioned.
Davy was an old song and dance actor. He taught Micky to play drums. Micky was also a GOOD guitar player as well. Headquarters was ALL their music with all of them playing.
@@paulwagner688 I have that and The Birds the Bees and the Monkees
@@paulwagner688 yes,and, I don't understand why it's always called a flop.
It was # 1 for two weeks,then dropped to #2, when Sargeant Peppper came out.
They both stayed in those positions for 3 months.
I'd say that being #2 only to the Beatles was darned successful,at that time!
Jimi Hendrix got his first real fame as he opened for the Monkees on one of their tours. The music of Hendrix was so much different than the Monkees that it took a while to get Hendrix noticed. Also, the Monkees pushed very hard to the Woodstock promotors in Hendix's behalf to include him
Michael Nesmith, the guitar player for them, his mother invented LIQUID PAPER correction fluid and made millions
and Michael Nesmith, Invented MTV
I loved every song that Micky sang!
"Pleasant Valley Sunday" is wonderful song.
The Monkees were hugely popular in the sixties. One performer who opened one of their concerts became a legend, Jimi Hendrix.
You’re 💯 correct, Amber! Neil Diamond wrote the song the Monkees made into a hit in 1966 . Smash Mouth covered in Shrek. I’m sure others here have already noted. Love the Monkees version the best! (although Smash Mouth good & more my era) 😉
My friend told me she hated how I turn everything into a Monkees song. At first, I couldn't understand, but then I saw her face, and now I'm a believer.
There were a few songs written by Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork. Peter and Mike were also musicians, Mickey Dolenz played some drums and sang most of their biggest hits. Davy Jones shook a mean tambourine, maracas, and sang lead on a few songs. They were hired for a TV series about a musical group. They all could sing.
Their nickname was the Pre-fab Four, a takeoff on The Beatles nickname, the Fab Four. Their show was funny. It showcased their songs. Eventually they toured just like other rock bands (Jimi Hendrix was their opening act for their first tour). They were fun! ♥️
I remember when the Monkeys premiered on TV. So epic. Such a beautiful time.
"Shades Of Grey, (I'm Not Your) Steppin Stone, You Just Might Be The One, Oh My My, Going Down, Valerie, Words, D.W. Washburn, She Hangs Out" There are a lot of bangers.
The Monkees sure hold a spot in my heart, they even made a cameo reunion on the show Boy Meets World from the 90s (where I believe one of them was playing Topanga's father) and they played a couple songs. Still remember watching that as a kid 💚
Peter Tork played Jedidiah Lawrence for 2 episodes. Michael McKean and Mark Harelik also played Jedidiah at various times throughout the shows run. Though Pete definitely felt the the most authentic since he's such a hippie.
@@tigristhelynx7224 Thanks! I remembered there being 3 different actors for her father. Agreed, I loved him as her dad for that very reason. ✌🏻✨
I love the Monkees. For something different, check out Papa Gene's Blues
My goodness -- My sister and I would play this over and over and over -- The B side of the 45 record was Im Not Your Steppin Stone --- We had our walls in our bedroom covered in Monkee photos -- Peter was my favorite --- Davey was my sisters -- Their show was silly but they were cute and playful -- never missed a show -- They were chosen for their looks and personalities but they did have some real talent too -- like someone else said Neil Diamond wrote this song and If you havent reacted to him yet you should as he has a great voice -- Try Song Sung Blue
Another fun fact: The Monkees, according to their members, said that Davy should have been the drummer because he was a very good percussionist, and that Mickey should have been out front as he was the best singer.
"In DVD commentary tracks included in the Season One release, Nesmith admitted that Tork was better at playing guitar than bass. In Tork's commentary he stated that Jones was a good drummer, and had the live performance lineups been based solely on playing ability, it should have been Tork on guitar, Nesmith on bass and Jones on drums, with Dolenz taking the fronting role." -Wiki
A few years back I had the pleasure of meeting Davy Jones on a few occasions, and I thanked him for being part of my childhood, he was truly a very kind person and he loved the time he spent with the others in the band. The gift of laughter and music he gave so many made a huge difference in the world, sadly Dolenz is the only living member left of the group, but even though they are gone, they will always be part of my best memories, and will forever live in my heart.
Hey, All! The version of I’m A Believer that’s in Shrek was done by Smash Mouth! Keep up the great work!
Davey Jones (the lead singer) was a very good dancer. He performed on the stage in Oliver and did several other dancing skits throughout his career. One, you should see for yourself is called "Daddy's Song".
A Monkees song that's far from their pop reputation is "Goin' Down"--an underrated classic.
I discovered The Monkees when MTV started playing their TV show. There were marathons of the show and I loved it. I bought several of their albums. I like "Last Train to Clarksville" and "Look Out (Here Comes Tomorrow)" and "A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You."
I'm a Believer" is a song written by Neil Diamond and recorded by the Monkees in 1966 with the lead vocals by Micky Dolenz. The single, produced by Jeff Barry , hit the number-one spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart for the week ending December 31, 1966, and remained there for seven weeks.
Shrek is a 2001 American computer-animated fantasy comedy film loosely based on the 1990 children's picture book of the same name by William Steig.
American pop rock band Smash Mouth covered the song in 2001 as part of the soundtrack to the movie Shrek, along with "All Star". The band also released the song on its self-titled album. Eddie Murphy, portraying the character Donkey, also performed a rendition of the song in the film.