Don’t tell me you still believe the Monkees couldn’t play their own instruments. Show producers had them do that for one season, before the boys had any creative control. Sure they were manufactured, but it’s what they did with it that makes them respectable, underrated, talented musicians. If you don’t know the Monkees, give them a chance.
They Hung Out With Johnny Cash
The Monkees on The Johnny Cash Show. First off, it is a beautiful song written by Mike Nesmith. They sing it with little to no accompaniment, unlike today's autotuned hacks. And if Johnny Cash approves enough to sing with them and have them on his show, it must be good.
They Are Beatle-Approved
“You know, there used to be only four of us to know what it feels like to be in this position in the world, and now there are eight of us.”
— John Lennon to Mike Nesmith - London, February 1967.
"The Monkees are still finding out who they are, and they seem to be improving as performers each time I see them. When they've got it all sorted out, they may be the greatest."- George Harrison
"I think you're the greatest comic talents since the Marx Brothers. I've never missed one of your programs."- John Lennon
"I like their music a lot...and you know, their personalities. I watch their tv show and it is good."- Paul McCartney
"It's the combining of their sound with their jumping around and all that which makes 'em so popular with the kids, I guess. With me, too."- Ringo Starr
"I'm sure that the Monkees are going to live up to a lot of things many people didn't expect."- Paul
"They're not really just copies of us, now, are they? The Monkees have a fine way of their own, you know?"- Ringo
"Monkees? They've got their own scene, and I won't send them down for it. You try a weekly television show and see if you can manage one half as good!"- John Lennon
Source: psycho-jello.com / via: psycho-jello.com
They Can Harmonize
Doesn't even need a description.
The Audtion Process
It is a long video, but when watching the very first screen tests and unrehearsed auditions, it is really quite magical.
