The Monkees biography
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The Monkees filmography

[h3]Unlike most bands of the time, the Monkees were not formed by its members, but rather by TV producers: they were a fictional band in the TV show of the same name. [/h3]

TV producers, Bert Schneider and Bob Rafelson, formulated an idea for a show about a Beatles-like band, then put ads in newspapers, seeking musicians to star in the series.

The band was composed of Mike Nesmith, Mickey Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork. All the members had some musical experience.

The show debuted on NBC in 1966 and became a huge hit. Each week the group would sing a song or two written by top industry names like Carole King, Neil Diamond and Gerry Goffin, while instrumentation was provided by talented musicians, including Stephen Stills and Harry Nilsson.

The Monkees' principle audience consisted of young teenagers and children. Nonetheless singles like 'I'm a Believer' became Top 10 hits, and the 'Prefab Four' became media icons. By 1967 the Monkees were perhaps the most popular band in the US.

But the Monkees themselves grew upset at not being able to play their own instruments or write their own songs, and began to rebel against their producers and record company.

The Monkees began playing some of their instruments and writing some songs on 1967's 'Headquarters'. That year they embarked on a major tour, proving they could perform live.

By 1968 the Monkees were already deviating from their manufactured image and straining for credibility, starring in the bizarre psychedelic movie 'Head'.

That same year the TV series came to a close, and the Monkees broke up within a year or two.

After a temporary revival in the 1980’s, the reunited group continues to tour the oldies circuit, usually without Mike Nesmith, who concentrates on the band's behind-the-scenes operations.
The Monkees biography




The Monkees biography




The Monkees biography




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