The Monkees – Boy Band Invented

“The Monkees” – a fictional rock band series that aired on NBC for two seasons from 1966-68 – was a short-lived, yet very successful look at the youth-crazed, fan-based phenomenon. My sister had it bad for Davy Jones – with posters all over the bedroom and a “must-see” demeanor on Monday nights.

The timing could not have been better for NBC and Screen Gems.

The Monkees debuted on a Monday night, September 12, 1966, as part of NBC’s fall lineup. It followed the wacky adventures of a struggling rock band in pursuit of fame and fortune. The series managed to take two Emmy Awards in 1967, including “Outstanding Comedy Series.” I personally believe drummer and singer Micky Dolenz was the funniest with his gift of wit and charm.

It can be safely said The Monkees invented the music video made popular by MTV beginning in the 1980s, which remains a hot spot to this day. Although The Monkees was canceled after just two seasons, it enjoyed great success in syndication on both CBS and ABC, along with a rebirth more recently as Monkees band members have passed on one by one. The only surviving band member is Micky Dolenz.

The Monkees debut record album on the Colgems label in 1966.

The Monkees was born of filmmakers Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider of Raybert Productions, who observed the great success of The Beatles films and believed they had a winning idea – yet there was virtually no interest from Hollywood. Raybert pitched the idea successfully to Columbia Pictures’ Screen Gems division in 1965. Word hit the streets – and hundreds of promising (and not so promising) actors/singers showed up to try out for four prime time television parts.

Micky Dolenz, whose father was actor George Dolenz, had child acting experience. Davy Jones, who ironically was a former jockey, had enjoyed some success as an actor in his native Britain. Long, tall Texan Michael Nesmith, whose mother invented Liquid Paper, tried out for one of the four parts. These four gentlemen were clear winners – especially if you’ve ever seen the screen tests. They had a natural chemistry and had impeccable timing.

It has been said Nesmith arrived at the audition with a laundry bag in hand. His wool hat, which was his trademark, kept hair out of his eyes while riding his motorcycle. Native Washingtonian (D.C.), Peter Tork, was a natural for his part. He had acting and singing ability. He was a born cutup.

Making The Monkees a huge success was never easy. It needed natural improv, quick cuts, and smooth, easy narratives. Every episode had at least one music video, which made it appealing to young people. Each Monkees actor played themselves, with good creative influence from director James Frawley (not related to William Frawley).

The Monkees was a terrific Monday night escape from life, regardless of how old you were. We watched with great consistency, as did our parents. It became a family ritual for two seasons while dining on Swanson TV dinners.

“The Monkees” years back – from left Mike Nesmith, Mickey Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones. All are gone now except Mickey, who continues to make fans laugh some 60 years later.