About the song
“The Monkees’ Theme,” also known simply as “Theme from The Monkees,” is a quintessential example of mid-1960s pop culture, brought to life by the beloved band The Monkees. Released on October 1, 1966, the song served as the opening theme for their popular television show, “The Monkees”, which premiered the same day. This catchy and upbeat tune played a pivotal role in establishing the band’s identity and connection with its audience.
The song was written by Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, two prominent figures in the world of 1960s pop music. The lyrics and melody of “The Monkees’ Theme” are designed to introduce the band members and set the tone for the show’s playful and irreverent style. The song’s chorus, with its memorable line “Here we come, walkin’ down the street,” immediately draws listeners into the world of The Monkees, capturing the fun and lighthearted spirit that the show embodied.
The significance of “The Monkees’ Theme” extends beyond its role as a television opener. It reflects the show’s concept of creating a fictional band whose members—Mickey Dolenz, Davy Jones, Peter Tork, and Michael Nesmith—embarked on comedic and musical adventures. The song itself encapsulates the essence of The Monkees: a blend of humor, charm, and youthful exuberance. This theme song effectively established the band’s persona and became an integral part of their public image.
In terms of social impact, “The Monkees’ Theme” played a significant role in the success of the television show, which became a cultural phenomenon. The show, and by extension the theme song, resonated with the youth of the 1960s, reflecting the era’s fascination with the burgeoning television industry and the rise of manufactured pop groups. The show’s format and the catchy theme song helped solidify The Monkees as a household name, and their influence extended well beyond the show itself.
The legacy of “The Monkees’ Theme” can still be felt today. The song and the show have continued to enjoy popularity among fans of classic television and music, reflecting a nostalgic yearning for a simpler, more whimsical era of entertainment. The catchy tune, characterized by its upbeat rhythm and memorable lyrics, remains a beloved piece of 1960s pop culture and is often celebrated in retrospectives of the era.
In essence, “The Monkees’ Theme” is more than just a catchy opening number; it is a cultural artifact that encapsulates the charm and charisma of The Monkees. It captures the spirit of a time when television and music were converging in exciting new ways, and its influence continues to be felt in the way we remember and celebrate pop culture from the 1960s.
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Lyrics
Here we come, walkin’ down the streetWe get the funniest looks from every one we meetHey, hey, we’re the Monkees and people say we monkey aroundBut we’re too busy singing to put anybody downWe go wherever we want to, do what we like to doWe don’t have time to get restless, there’s always something newHey, hey, we’re the Monkees and people say we monkey aroundBut we’re too busy singing to put anybody downWe’re just tryin’ to be friendly, come and watch us sing and playWe’re the young generation, and we’ve got something to sayAny time, or anywhere, just look over your shoulderGuess who’ll be standing thereHey, hey, we’re the Monkees and people say we monkey aroundBut we’re too busy singing to put anybody downHey, hey, we’re the Monkees and people say we monkey aroundBut we’re too busy singing to put anybody downWe’re just tryin’ to be friendly, come and watch us sing and playWe’re the young generation, and we’ve got something to sayHey, hey, we’re the MonkeesHey, hey, we’re the Monkees