The Monkees – Words

About the song

“Words” by The Monkees is a poignant ballad that stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and emotional depth. Released on July 15, 1968, this song is a standout track from their fourth studio album, “The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees.” The album itself marks a significant evolution in The Monkees’ musical journey, reflecting a more mature and introspective side of the band, which is beautifully captured in “Words.”

“Words” was written by Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, prolific songwriters known for their work with The Monkees. The song features a gentle, melodious arrangement that underscores its lyrical content, offering a blend of heartfelt sentiment and introspective reflection. The lyrics of “Words” delve into the complexities of human communication, highlighting how words can sometimes fall short of conveying true emotions or the depth of feelings. It articulates a sense of frustration and longing that many listeners can relate to, which is a hallmark of The Monkees’ more introspective works during this period.

In terms of social impact, “Words” resonates with audiences because of its universal theme of emotional expression and the challenges inherent in communicating feelings effectively. The late 1960s was a time of significant social change, and songs like “Words” provided a reflective counterpoint to the more upbeat and externally focused tracks that were popular at the time. The Monkees, initially known for their television show and upbeat pop hits, demonstrated through “Words” that they were capable of producing music with deeper emotional resonance and more sophisticated themes.

Musically, “Words” features a smooth blend of orchestration and vocals that underscores its lyrical depth. The arrangement includes lush strings and a soft piano that create a reflective mood, complementing the introspective nature of the lyrics. This arrangement helps to convey the emotional weight of the song, making it one of the standout tracks on “The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees.”

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to articulate a universal experience—finding the right words to express what one truly feels. It captures the vulnerability and complexity of human emotions in a way that is both accessible and profound. The Monkees’ performance of “Words” showcases their growth as artists, moving beyond their early pop personas into more serious and emotionally nuanced territory.

In summary, “Words” by The Monkees is a beautifully crafted song that reflects the band’s evolution and their ability to tackle deeper emotional themes. Released in the summer of 1968 as part of “The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees,” the song stands out for its lyrical introspection and musical sophistication, marking a significant moment in the band’s career and resonating with listeners across generations.

Video

Lyrics

Girl, don’t you know every time I see you smilin’?
Hurts so bad cause when I see you, I start trying
Try everything to stop but there’s no denying
Falling in love with you girl is just like dying

Oh-oh-oh, don’t walk away
Oh-oh-oh, how can I make you stay, don’t turn away
I can still hear you saying those

Words that never were true
Spoken to help nobody but you
Words with lies inside
But small enough to hide till your playin’ was through, ah

Girl don’t you know we can work it out with talkin’?
You won’t turn around or slow down your walking
I’ve given you everything with a kiss to seal it
You had to get your kicks with tryin’ to steal it

Now I’m standing here
Strange, strange voices in my ears, I feel the tears
But all I can hear are those

Words that never were true
Spoken to help nobody but you
Words with lies inside
But small enough to hide till your playin’ was through, ah

Now I’m standing here
Strange, strange voices in my ears, I feel the tears
But all I can hear are those

Words that never were true
Spoken to help nobody but you
Words with lies inside
But small enough to hide till your playin’ was through

Words that never were true
Spoken to help nobody but you
Words with lies inside
But small enough to hide till your playin’ was through

Words that never were true
Just spoken to help nobody but you