The Monkees – She

About the song

The Monkees are often remembered as one of the most iconic pop rock bands of the 1960s, and their song “She”exemplifies their unique blend of catchy melodies and youthful exuberance. Released in 1967, “She” was a track on their second studio album, “More of the Monkees”, which quickly became a staple of their discography and a fan favorite.

“She” was written by Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, who were pivotal in crafting the Monkees’ signature sound. The song opens with a powerful, driving beat that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Micky Dolenz’s lead vocals are both compelling and emotive, perfectly conveying the song’s themes of love and heartache. The Monkees, comprised of Dolenz, Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, brought a vibrant energy to the music scene, and “She” is a prime example of their musical chemistry and talent.

The lyrics of “She” tell the story of a man who has been deeply hurt by a deceitful lover. Lines such as “She told me that she loved me, and like a fool I believed her from the start” resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of betrayal. The repetitive chorus, “She, she, told me lies,” underscores the protagonist’s anguish and the emotional turmoil caused by the breakup. This emotional depth, combined with the catchy melody, makes “She” a standout track that goes beyond simple pop conventions.

Released during the height of the Monkees’ popularity, “More of the Monkees” became the band’s best-selling album. The album topped the Billboard 200 chart for 18 weeks, and its success was bolstered by the band’s popular television show, which further endeared them to fans. The Monkees were not just a band but a cultural phenomenon, bridging the gap between television and music in a way that had never been done before.

“She” reflects the social context of the 1960s, a decade marked by both free love and its inevitable disappointments. The song’s exploration of romantic disillusionment resonated with many young listeners navigating their own relationships and emotions. Despite being initially dismissed by some critics as a manufactured band, the Monkees proved their musical legitimacy through their enduring hits and the genuine talent of their members.

Musically, “She” showcases the Monkees’ ability to blend rock, pop, and a touch of psychedelia. The instrumentation, featuring jangly guitars, a steady bassline, and dynamic drumming, creates a rich, textured sound that complements Dolenz’s expressive vocals. The production quality of “More of the Monkees” also stands out, highlighting the technical expertise behind the band’s recordings.

In conclusion, “She” by the Monkees is more than just a song from a bygone era; it’s a timeless piece that captures the essence of youthful love and heartbreak. Its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the band’s undeniable charm make it a song that continues to resonate with audiences old and new. Whether you’re reminiscing about the 60s or discovering the Monkees for the first time, “She” is a song that remains as poignant and enjoyable as ever.

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Lyrics

she told me that she loved me,
And like a fool I believed her from the start
(She) she said she’d never hurt me,
But then she turned around and broke my heart
Why am I standing here
Missing her and wishing she were here?

she only did me wrong
(Hey) I’m better off alone
(She) she devoured all my sweet love,
Took all I had and then she fed me dirt

she laughed while I was crying
It was such a joke to see the way it hurt
Why am I standing here
Missing her and wishing she were here?

she only did me wrong
(Hey) I’m better off alone
And now I know just why she,
Keeps me hanging ’round,
(Hanging ’round)
She needs someone to walk on
So her feet don’t touch the ground
(Don’t touch the ground)
But I love her (love her)
I need her (need her)
I want her (want her)
Yeah (yeah) yeah (yeah)
Yeah yeah yeah yeah she

Why am I standing here
Missing her and wishing she were here?
(Hey) she only did me wrong, now
(Hey) I’m better off alone
(She) why am I missing her?
(She) I should be kissing her
(She) why am I missing her?
(She) I should be kissing her