They Made Monkee Out Of Me: Inside the Invention of the Band That Made the 60s Pop

The Birth of Monkees

In the heart of the Swinging Sixties, as Beatlemania raged across the globe, a new sensation emerged from the sun-kissed shores of Los Angeles: The Monkees. A brainchild of television executives Don Kirshner and Bob Rafelson, The Monkees were conceived as a prefabricated pop band, a fictional quartet who would star in a weekly sitcom while also releasing hit records.

The Search for the Monkees

The search for the perfect Monkees was a nationwide casting call that attracted over 400 hopefuls. From this pool of talent, four young men emerged as the ideal candidates: Micky Dolenz, the charismatic lead singer; Michael Nesmith, the wry and sardonic guitarist; Peter Tork, the eccentric bassist; and Davy Jones, the doe-eyed heartthrob.

Micky Dolenz

Born George Michael Dolenz Jr. in Los Angeles, Micky was a child actor who had appeared in numerous television shows and films before joining The Monkees. His infectious energy and boyish charm made him the perfect frontman for the band.

They Made a Monkee Out of Me

by Nick Morrison

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	71401 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Michael Nesmith

A former Air Force pilot and songwriter, Michael brought a unique perspective to The Monkees. His sardonic wit and experimental musical leanings set him apart from his bandmates.

Peter Tork

Peter Tork, born Peter Halsten Thorkelson, was a talented musician and actor who had studied at Carnegie Mellon University. His offbeat personality and banjo-playing added a touch of eccentricity to the band.

Davy Jones

David Jones, born in Manchester, England, was the quintessential pop idol. His clean-cut good looks and British accent made him a favorite among teenage girls worldwide.

The Television Series

The Monkees' television series, which premiered in September 1966, was an instant hit. The show followed the hijinks of the band as they navigated the music industry and personal relationships. Its blend of slapstick comedy, catchy songs, and social satire appealed to a wide audience.

The Music

The Monkees' music was a crucial part of their success. Under the guidance of producers Don Kirshner and Jeff Barry, the band released a string of hit singles, including "Last Train to Clarksville," "(I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone," and "I'm a Believer." Their albums, such as "The Monkees" and "Head," became instant bestsellers.

The Legacy

The Monkees left an undeniable mark on popular culture. Their television show and music continue to be enjoyed by generations of fans, and they remain a symbol of the carefree and optimistic spirit of the 1960s. Despite the band's manufactured origins, they developed a genuine camaraderie and a unique musical style that set them apart from other pop acts of the era.

Behind the Scenes: The Real Story of The Monkees

"They Made Monkee Out Of Me: Inside the Invention of the Band That Made the 60s Pop" delves deep into the fascinating story of The Monkees. The book explores the creative process behind the television series and the music, revealing the challenges, conflicts, and triumphs that shaped the band's legacy.

Exclusive Interviews

The author, Christopher A. Andersen, conducted exclusive interviews with former Monkees members, including Micky Dolenz and Michael Nesmith. Their firsthand accounts provide a candid and intimate look at the band's rise, fall, and eventual resurgence.

Rare Photographs

The book is illustrated with rare photographs and behind-the-scenes images, capturing the essence of The Monkees' journey. These visual treasures give readers a glimpse into the band's studio sessions, television tapings, and live performances.

A Must-Read for Monkees Fans

"They Made Monkee Out Of Me: Inside the Invention of the Band That Made the 60s Pop" is a must-read for any fan of The Monkees. It is a comprehensive and engaging account of the band's rise to fame, their creative triumphs, and their lasting impact on popular culture. It is a testament to the enduring power of music, television, and the enduring spirit of the 1960s.

They Made a Monkee Out of Me

by Nick Morrison

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	71401 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	248 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE