How an ANNOYING B-SIDE Nobody Wanted--Became an ACCIDENTAL #1 SING-ALONG Classic!--Professor of Rock

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is a CHEESY SONG from the ROCK ERA that you ABSOLUTELY LOVE?

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

Daily, Nightly The Monkees

[@peterd.9978]

Teeny weeny itsy bitsy yellow polka dot bikini!

[@TerrickTerran]

Somebody's Watching Me. HM Disco Duck.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

Disco Duck Wet Dream (Fish heads) Both guilty pleasure! 😂😂

[@gregwasserman2635]

The Streak, Ray Stevens

[@mattlaw1350]

I don't care if the Monkeys were a "manufactured" band. I still listen to them because I don't care how magic was created, I just enjoy it.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree.

[@joeysplats3209]

I get movin' when they play "Last Train To Clarksville" in the grocery store.

[@johntheissen1526]

@@ProfessorofRock Regardless of how one defines manufactured, all four of them were musicians BEFORE the Monkees ever existed. It's a myth that the group was composed of 4 random people or 4 actors. They were musicians first. 🙂

[@TheOdog1970]

Loved the music and the show when I was a kid in the early 70s

[@KenLieck]

@@johntheissen1526 Well as Mike told me about the making of 1997's "Justus": "The Monkees are not a band. The Monkees is fictional. It doesn't exist. There is no Monkees. It's characters in a television show. It's an out-of-work rock & roll band. The fact that the four of us got together and made this music... It's more performance art than it is anything else, and you have to consider it not so much as an album but as an artifact of what it is we're doing. An artifact in the most precise sense of the word, which is to say a by-product of the central event." So there you go. Hope that helps!

[@josephrosano3847]

I actually got the honor of singing this song with Davey in the mid 90s. My band was performing in the lounge of a hotel, where he was staying. They had just performed at a nearby venue and came by the lounge on their way back to their rooms. On a break, I went up to him and told him we did this song and asked if he wanted to come sing with us and he said sure. So we opened the next set with this song and invited up our guest performer. Every time I hear this song I think of that night.

[@evaaiken9057]

That’s wonderful!!! What a great time. 🎶🖤🎵

[@ditzygypsy]

Very cool story! What a memory to cherish, too. 😊

[@lindatimmons3675]

I always thought they were pretty cool guys. I got to see them here in my hometown in early to mid 2000s. Can't remember if Peter Tork was still alive or not but definitely Davey and Mickey were. They were so wonderful. I was thrilled. ❤😊❤

[@kurtleftridge6530]

How exciting life can be. I'm a guitar player and have many find memories playing at my high school and all kinds if field parties and really cool venues but I decided that traveling just wasn't my bag. I've met all the bands I wanted to but was a family man at heart. I never got to play on stage with any of my heros or musicians I hooked up to. Your story was really cooi. I grew up listening to the Monkees

[@ffggddss]

@@lindatimmons3675 Well, since Davy was the first one of them to pass, ... Fred

[@FavoriteMovieDate]

I loved the Monkees! Never paid attention to the criticism because I KNEW the music was great. Still is today.

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure!

[@Shauma_llama]

And now you have so many singers that don't write their own songs and nobody thinks anything of it.

[@MicahMicahel]

@@Shauma_llamayeah... the monkees had to fight to get their own songs on. Michael nesmith turned out to be a great songwriter. now people dont fight to get their songs in because theyre at parties or something instead of working

[@lindatimmons3675]

I love the Monkees. Always have. ❤

[@dsoule4902]

It was a silly and fun tv show for grade schoolers. Crack musicianship on the songs

[@gerolynmsnn1343]

My mom was a huge Monkees fan... I am huge Monkees fan and my two older daughters are also fans. My oldest is 23 now and she has Down Syndrome... about 15 years ago when she discovered the Monkees through me borrowing the show at the library (single mom, no cable) she asked if I would send them a message for her. So I did, I messaged them all on Facebook. Surprisingly, Mike Nesmith sent her back a beautiful message. He told her how amazed he was that generations could bond over his music. That grandmother's listened to their songs with their grandchildren. It was so kind of him to take the time to write to her and it is still one of her crowinging moments.

[@jeepstergal4043]

Nez grew into a good man.

[@mkvampire88]

I will always ❤love the Monkees, they were ALL so talented. Mike a Favorite.

[@markkwiatkowski9121]

No need to apologize for taking advantage of what your local public library has to offer. Your taxes give you the opportunity to experience so many different things without having to buy them yourself or store them in your house.

[@pamelanaumann2586]

I looked up The Monkeys and The Beatles and seen how The Monkeys outsold concerts albums and paraphernalia such as shirts lunchboxes posters and whatever else. The Monkeys also were the first band that created music videos.

[@zoeblue4274]

@@gerolynmsnn1343 I got to see the "Pre-Fab Four" (can't stand that moniker) in Toronto in the late '60s. My mom took me, her best friend brought her 2 kids around my age 7ish!). The mothers drank a lot of beer to sit through all that screaming, but oh what a memory! Narrowly missed seeing Hendrix as the opening act. Your family has great taste, but especially your daughter. Please say hi to her for me.

[@kennethbingham8410]

Back in 2001 I was in Wisconsin and saw Mickey Dolenz and Mike Nesmith in Milwaukee. Mike would die a month later, but during the concert, they played Daydream Believer, and the entire audience sang the song. I belted the song out with tears running down my face as Mickey Dolenz put the mic to the air and said "Do you hear that Davy?" Greatest concert experience I have ever had.

[@MeMeDaVinci]

I think you have your dates incorrect

[@Donna-zc9ii]

Mike died in 2021.

[@MeMeDaVinci]

@@kennethbingham8410 I went to the show in September 2021 in San Jose. It was a good show... and hard to see Nes in poor health. The music was great.

[@classictvanimator2080]

It's Micky!

[@Mikkibriteside]

Wow..I wrote almost the same experience..It was in Orlando though..I think the people who were really tuned in knew. ❤

[@Fregulus5]

No matter what lousy mood I'm in, "Daydream Believer" will always make me smile!

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true! Great singalong!

[@TerrickTerran]

so true.

[@AdventureAryck]

I prefer, hey hey we’re the monkees and people say we monkey around😂

[@ProfessorofRock]

@@AdventureAryck Both are great!

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

@@AdventureAryck For me it's "Papa Gene's Blues."

[@LOLadyWho]

The Monkees really should be inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. The continued refusal to accept that they were a band is hard to understand.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They don’t get enough justice.

[@MikeD_]

Only one Monkee can show up, but it would be fun recognition.

[@scottboswell6406]

YES!! It's crazy that there are generations of fans of their music decades later, but still don't get their due. I'd definitely be crying if I got to see Mickey being there for induction!

[@LOLadyWho]

@@scottboswell6406 Same.

[@martincvitkovich724]

Elvis wasn't a band, didn't play on his records, Supremes were not a band , didn't play anything, etc so yes I vote yes

[@bradsimpson7369]

Many years ago, a young English kid was visiting his relatives in Ontario, Canada. He wanted to see some horses and so his relatives, friends of my grandparents, brought him up to the farm where he hung out for a while.A few months later, my Grandmother came down to the barn as we were doing the milking and said "Remember David, that English boy that came to visit ? Well he got a job in the States for some new TV show. " Yes, it was Davy Jones! I also had the pleasure of meeting Michael Nesmith in Kitchener, just before Covid, when he and Micky were doing their tour. He loved music and playing for people and was an inspiration to me.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing that!

[@ednaatluxton4918]

So cool. I'm from Ontario and only met Mickey then Davy years apart. Never Mike who I had a crush on when young. Did you go see Davy at the Peterborough festival by the water free music show?

[@bradsimpson7369]

@@ednaatluxton4918 No I didn't. He would come to visit his relatives on occasion but it was really hush, hush. I have missed a number of concerts that i wanted to see because I am in a band that plays a lot and we are often booked in when another act comes around. I recently missed the Doobie Brothers in Kitchener. Oh well eh!

[@EM-mw2qr]

I don't expect anyone to believe this but I swear it's true. Mickey Dolenz once stopped my brother-in-law and asked him for directions. My brother-in-law recognized him and said "Can I have your autograph please? For my wife?" And Mickey gave it to him. Great guy.

[@williamashton9235]

"Daydream Believer" was the first record I ever bought. I was 11.

[@CarrietsHouseAndGarden]

I was in 2nd grade when the Monkees TV show premiered. I'm now 65. I still love their songs. Every time I hear one I sing along. They are timeless and bring a smile to my face!

[@dianeandrzejak2221]

I’m a believer!!

[@annedavis6090]

I'm 66! Here we come..

[@dianeandrzejak2221]

@@annedavis6090 - Walking down the street 🎼🎶🎵🎤 We get the funniest looks from 🎼🎶🎵🎤 Everyone we meet. Hey Hey We’re The Monkees. I ALMOST called you Alice, but then I noticed that there was no B between the names!😂 (I sing that song too!)

[@jenw5056]

Who doesn’t turn up the volume and sing loud when this song comes on the radio? I’ve always loved it. ❤

[@ronniboi312]

I know I do..!!! I love this song

[@karenfortner6537]

I cant hear this song without wanting to dance like Davy. Im 73 and I still dance.

[@GlynnelleJones]

Hey I’m 75 and I love to dance. You’re never too old to have fun.

[@josephinerimmer6888]

David was my friend’s Uncle, and when she got married he came over to attend it. I was beside myself and nearly sick with excitement. At the reception he invited anyone who wanted, to join him in Daydream Believer. I was up before anyone could grab me and tie me to a chair. Think I should mention that I was nearly 50 years old. I sang with him, I danced with him. It was like being in a dream. In the bosom of his family, he was just the younger brother of four bossy older sisters, and behaved accordingly. So nice, kind and natural. It still remains the most memorable night of my life. God Bless him. The world is poorer for his loss. ❤❤❤

[@debbiemyers4565]

The Skate! I'm 72 and remember dancing the skate to a lot of their songs.

[@lindaday4734]

I agree.

[@ValerieGriner]

I'm 67 and I still love to dance, too!

[@robinschannelmcconnell5575]

The Monkees have been my favorite band for literally my entire life. Love when they get recognition. Thanks.

[@BobSebring]

Me too. Ever since thier beginning back in 1966. My loyalty never waned regardless if they were popular or not. I even loved them as DJBH back in the 70s. They will forever be my favorite pop rock band.

[@stevenjones5277]

@@BobSebring 1st single I ever bought, when I rushed home to play it thought I'd bought the wrong one when they were just talking as an intro. Special group

[@angiemeloy2142]

Me too! They are still my fav!

[@suzybearheart530]

The other day I was in the grocery store (Food Lion in Elkton, MD) and they were playing Star Collector over the speakers. I was stunned. Normally it plays a bland blend of top 40 type stuff but here they were playing one of the more obscure tunes. I was delighted but confused. Would love to know how that track snuck in.

[@RobertL_0563]

The Monkees, with their HUGE following, and with as many hit songs as their rivals, still being played and loved to this day, its no wonder they are legendary.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true!

[@brucekalter4206]

It is a classic track & the Monkees WERE a real band, even though they didn't start out that way. They had loads of real talent and their music will always survive and be loved. Thanks for this story... and props to the late John Stewart.

[@fleetskipper1810]

The Monkees’s half-hour show was aired on network TV at 7:30 EST, and 14-year-old me never missed it. My classmates and I had different favorite band members-mine was Mickey- but each of the Monkees was popular. In 2018, my husband and I went to a Monkees reunion concert in Dayton, Ohio. Only Mickey and Nesmith were there, but they rocked the outdoor pavilion. Nesmith played several of his own tunes, including “San Antoine,” and his bona fide musicianship was obvious. Mickey’s voice was still vibrant and expressive. They deliberately avoided the songs that Davey was lead singer for, explaining that they wouldn’t be the same without him. They brought the house down.

[@cherylreichardt]

Davy sang that song so perfectly! Them critics need to be criticized themselves for being so harsh on this Real band!! Love hearing more Monkees Professor!! 👍😴

[@TerrickTerran]

Just took a while for people to understand how good The Monkees really were.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You got it!

[@Moeporcelli57]

I loved the Monkees. I used to watch their show on television as well. I had a crush on Davy Jones.

[@EM-mw2qr]

Davy brought the song to life.

[@justtere]

Anne Murray ruined it.

[@raymyers6016]

I think Davy Jones is one of the most underrated singers in history. Amazing voice!

[@zzanatos2001]

I also like Micky Dolenz on "I'm A Believer" and "Last Train to Clarksville."

[@budmcnew7763]

How is he underated? And to who?

[@sherriianiro747]

I think it's because like Peter Noon, he wouldn't give up his English accent when he sang.

[@budmcnew7763]

@@sherriianiro747 Noone

[@hyacinth4368]

Davy had a certain quality or tone to his voice that was very pleasant and lovely. He also clearly pronounced every word. I also love to hear his background vocals to Micky's lead.

[@christineml1476]

"Daydream Believer" needed Davy Jones and the Monkees to get it on the radio and to the top of the charts.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true. Catchy song for sure!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Davy brought the magic.

[@KariCastro-c5m]

The Monkees were my absolute favorites when they first premiered on TV in 1966. I was 9, and although all my friends loved Davy Jones, I instantly was smitten with Micky Dolenz. And my love for the band, and their music, (and Micky) abides to this day. Thanks for the history lesson about Daydream Believer.

[@antidvdi]

Mike Nesmith was my favorite with Micky close behind.

[@suzannchurchwell4286]

My favorite was Peter Tork, real name was Peter Halston Torkelson III. Just a little trivia.

[@scottiffer17]

Mike and Peter. 😍🥰 I wore a ski hat with a pompom for two solid years.

[@bigsisdi2]

I liked Micky Dolenz YEARS before the Monkees! He played in a Saturday morning kids show called Circus Boy! ❤

[@phyllismartin674]

Had a major crush on Peter Tork and also loved Mickey Dolenz.

[@sunset4ever29]

They were the right people at the right time and had solid hits. They each contributed to rock history in their own way. Davy's personality, Micky's harmonic voice, Mike's country rock influence and Peter's folk influence made the group unique. They have dedicated fans and new fans as their music becomes known. It doesn't matter that they were brought together, they were meant to be together as a group.

[@carolmartin4413]

Don't care who did/didn't like this song...I thought it was sweet and Davy was adorable. Loved the melody. Loved singing along with it. Seems to me that's what makes music meaningful. 😊

[@ProfessorofRock]

You're right on the money!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yes for sure!

[@paulendicott9151]

Those who can do, the other's criticize. They sang the words, and we rushed home to catch the show. It was good being a kid in those days. Good memories, professor.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You betcha!

[@pambogart2480]

I love the Monkees. They were a big part of my childhood.. Davy was my first love. I saw the Monkees in concert in the 80s in their comeback tour. I saw Davy in concert a week before we lost him. Daydream Believer is my favorite. Such a happy song

[@KitsuyuutsuR]

Born in ‘73, watched reruns of this show growing up and still watch it when I can find it. Have tons of their songs in my iTunes library, have 45s, LPs… I love the Monkees! They had great tunes and their show was hilarious! My favorite was the episode where Peter tried to get a job at a toy factory. The interview he had with the computer and Mike’s interview afterward was hilarious! 😂 I miss shows being awesome like this…

[@djgingecoldwell10]

I interviewed Davy and Mickey ,in London at the Mermaid Theatre in the production of the Point, both of them were so gracious, and I was on his Christmas card list for a few years. I saw the group live in 97 at Wembley, taking my son, and was so pleased to see all of the band reunited 😀, I loved the Monkees, they were part of my growing up.❤

[@juliecrane9647]

I love the Monkees and Kingston Trio. Didn't know John wrote Daydream ! 😊😊

[@BrianMcKnight68]

Born in ‘68, I grew up with reruns of The Monkees television show. Watching the show led me to their music, (which was the whole point!) and I have loved them ever since.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@andreaberryhill6654]

Born 1963. Watched as a very young girl with my older sisters, then again in reruns. I enjoyed their music as a child, and ofcourse crushed on Mickey. But as an adult, I've grown to truly appreciate their talents. The Monkees music always improves my mood. I love singing the various harmonies, not just the melody.

[@BrianMcKnight68]

@@andreaberryhill6654 the harmony on (I’m not your) Steppin’ Stone springs to mind! 😁. One voice ascends while the other descends. I love it!

[@laureencriss8220]

Born in 66. Saturday mornings with the Monkees was always fun.

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

@@laureencriss8220 Wow. I was born in '66 as well. Reruns where shown on Saturday mornings on CBS from 1969-72 and ABC from 1972-73.

[@mournblade1066]

"Daydream Believer" has such a beautiful melody.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Yes indeed!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

Have you heard the writer John Stewart's original, recorded five years later? It is more folky and melancholy.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It really does.

[@lauriemathews7974]

Davy Jones could have sung the dictionary, and teenage girls would have loved it!! I've been a Monkees fan ever since I heard their music when I was a kid. Thank you, Professor, for another great video!!!

[@marlboro-manmat295]

As a kid growing up in the early 70's, The Monkees, The Brady Bunch, and The Partridge Family were all after-school (after kindergarten) required viewing for us kids. And thanks for the "I'm never going to wash my cheek again", clip, because I haven't seen this in 50 years, but seeing this instantly brought back memories. Thanks!

[@jsimpers]

Actually, the "never wash my cheek again" was with Desi Arnaz Jr. With Davy, Marcia kissed him, and he said "How about one for the flip side?" whereupon she kissed his other cheek.

[@MichaelPiz]

The B-side to Daydream Believer, Goin' Down, is also an amazing track. I remember getting the 45, playing Goin' Down for the first time, and knowing (in my 6-year-old way) that it was something special. It has remained one of my favorite Monkees songs ever since. I did and still do love the Monkees.

[@marisa5359]

Goin' Down is an amazing song! What Micky does with those fast flying lyrics is incredible.

[@trekeria]

Goin' Down is my favourite Monkees song!

[@Rosemary-vf5ei]

Loved Goin' Down sung by Micky Dolenz. Also loved Tapioca Tundra written and sung by Mike Nesmith. Mike recorded it live again with an amazing story about Rudyard Kipling and Mark Twain which is well worth googling. They were the only songs I liked. They were the only band members I liked. Sorry, but Davy left me cold.

[@cubemissy]

Remember all the lyrics? I do!

[@MichaelPiz]

@cubemissy Oh yeah! So much fun to sing!

[@flavellinator]

When Stewart struck "Gold" with Stevie Nicks in 1979, my mom told me that John was her high school crush and that he sat next to her in English class at Pomona Catholic High School. She then pulled out her yearbook and showed me. Yup, there he was! Never knew about his connection to "Daydream Believer"... Good one, PoR!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Hey Flave! Long time no see!

[@itchiefeetadventures]

@@flavellinator *_OMG, That is one of my favorite songs. I almost fell out seeing you mention it. I really thought I was the only person on 🌎, that not only knows this song, but loves it all the same! John Stewart & Stevie Nicks! A singing match made in heaven. Great F'n Song! 😉👍❤️_*

[@kingofallwhites]

Uh oh… you kind of look like him!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

Congratulations, Flave! How do you like John's "Willard" album's song "Back In Pomona"?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That is so cool!

[@mbgrafix]

Daydream Believer is a truly irresistible song. With a touch of melancholy, blended with just the right amount of joyous glee... it's a feel-good song that lingers within your mind all day long. Each time that I hear it, I am immediately transported back to those early days of my childhood... and it's a welcome journey indeed!

[@shiroibasketshoes]

Do you feel the same about songwriter John Stewart's own version?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Whenever I’m feeling down, this song picks me right back up..

[@mbgrafix]

@shiroibasketshoes Wasn't even aware Stewart's version existed before watching this video.

[@glennday7802]

@@mbgrafix I imagine it was popular before you were born. It was a massive #1 hit in late 1967.

[@mbgrafix]

@glennday7802 I was born in 1964, the youngest of 4, and so yes, I recall as a child watching The Monkees on TV...and so, it was their version alone that I heard, not Stewart's recording.

[@ellennewth6305]

I've heard several interviews where famous rock stars say the one song they wish they'd recorded is "Daydream Believer." But no one could have performed that song the way Davy did (agitated or not!!!) And ya gotta love the "skating backwards" video!!!!

[@JM-2001]

Every Saturday morning my older sister and I would get up early and watch cartoons and then The Monkees. We loved that show. We were 5 and 7. Best part was when they would break into a song. Loved the opening song and the bed being pushed through the street. In college one of my favorite cassettes was their Best of Monkees album. Still have it. Great music. Thanks again for a wonderful history lesson.

[@bEverCurious]

I was born in 67 and absolutely loved The Monkees when growing up. Daydream believer was one of my faves and still is. At school I was introduced to 'Where have all the flowers gone' and fell in love with that one as well. Only now am I learning both songs were linked to one man.

[@erinriwen]

Born in 1960, I first saw Davy on Ed Sullivan along with the Beatles, then watched the tv show live every week. I loved them all but Davy and Peter were my favorites. Fast forward to 1986 and the reunion and I became friends with Maggie McManus who ran the monkees fc. Also met a fellow fan who would later marry David’s sax player. Between the reunion shows and the shows with her and her husband, I had a chance to meet them all and spent time with David and Peter. Both truly lovely and talented guys. Daydream Believer is one of our beloved anthems, a glorious sing along that took us back to those fun times. Thank you.

[@mikeeckel2807]

Yes! Davy Jones was in the musical "Oliver!" that was playing on Broadway.

[@expeditioncalypsowind]

We grew up in that era and though we all pretend we never took the Monkees or the Partridge Family / David Cassady ( "I Think I Love You " ) seriously , we all secretly LOVED THEM !! ( as guys , the girls had Tiger Beat posters on their walls of Davey & David ! ) -- lots of great music of all genres from that era !

[@bcaye]

Not me. I'm completely honest about my love for those artists.

[@bobdavis4848]

This sixty year old guy was always a fan of everyone you mentioned. Please spell Davy's name correctly.

[@GWiggz]

I saw Davy perform this song so many times live & it never got old. I saw him just a few months before he passed, at Disney World, with my mom. She had introduced me to the Monkees, and especially Davy, when I was a kid back in the 80s. So special & so much fun.

[@snoops5581]

John Stewart was once asked if he was mad that the lyrics were changed & he said no because it paid my mortgage. I own JS Bombs Away & it’s a good album. I’m glad you brought up Midnight Wind because that’s my favorite song on the entire album most people have never heard of it. I remember watching the monkeys on Saturdays as a child & girls always loved Davy but I always like Mickey Dolenz. What a time to be alive in the late 60’s!

[@ladybugblues]

My mother loved this song. She always called it Cherokee bikini no matter how often I corrected her. Good memories.

[@beckyleapolitte2245]

Cherokee Bikini!!! That stopped me and made me chuckle & LoL!!! 😂 Such a sweet AND funny memory 2 have!!!

[@ladybugblues]

Glad to hear that.

[@jtoland2333]

I always enjoy a good Monkees story! Love them, not ashamed 😊❤

[@rogerdeahl9629]

It's a great day! Sun shining, squirrels scampering, and I get to see another day. And of course we are in the Professors classroom. Daydream Believer is a great little ditty. And the unknown drama behind it! Thanks Professor. Hope everyone has a great start to the week.

[@guntherdawg]

Scampering squirrels in the shining sun does indeed sound like a great day, enjoy!

[@dennismccarthy7032]

I was 9 when the Monkees program appeared on British tv with the hit songs in nearly every show it was an instant success everyone loved them , "stepping stone " , and" last train to Clarksville" were 2 of my favourites. Thanks for the memories ❤.

[@johnbroski6353]

I was born in the fifties, and I absolutely loved the Monkees!.. I used to watch their goofy TV show and loved it!.. when Davy Jones appeared on The Brady Bunch, I was like a Starstruck fan!.. I was so envious of Marcia!...

[@highpsi11]

Even it you don't really like the song, you can't help singing along and having it stay in your memory. I guess that's the sign of a hit.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true!

[@anderander5662]

The songs of that era had melody and lyrics that stuck with you, nowadays music seems generic....almost like it's AI generated.

[@chrismaresco3163]

Man I miss the 60's!!! I was in elementary and middle school during those days. I loved the cars and the music. Thank you for telling us the back stories to all these great songs. As a kid, I would not have been that interested in those stories. I just wanted to listen to the music. But now, I get to not only relive those amazing days, I get to learn the stories behind the music and the performers. Your channel is amazing. Thank you for all you do to keep the music alive.

[@FTG2Eli]

Me too, but I don't remember "Funky" as ever being used a swear word. It was always used to describe something different.

[@trinaq]

My mother used to sing this song to me as a Lullaby, and the memory makes me smile whenever I hear the song.

[@Code.Name.V]

What a memory to have! Musically induced nostalgia rocks!

[@ProfessorofRock]

That's so great to hear!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I love that! That’s so cute.

[@carnick1201]

WOW!! Professor you are amazing! Thank you for your behind-the-scenes stories otherwise lost in time. You’re great!!😊

[@thejackal007]

The Monkees remain one of my favorite groups, easily top 5 of all time. And while I like some of the lesser known hits a bit more, this one never fails to give me a good feeling when I hear it.

[@timm1139]

As a kid, I watched reruns of the Monkees whenever they were on. I really enjoyed their goofiness and antics as well as their music. To relive those memories would be a dream come true for me.

[@stephenhanft1226]

"Daydream Believer" has always been my favorite Monkees song. The Davy Jones appearance on that Brady Bunch episode was such an iconic TV moment for a generation of kids. Actually, I hadn't heard of John Stewart until his 1979 top ten hit "Gold". Later,, I surprisingly found out that he wrote "Daydream Believer" which made me appreciate him even more.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I had no idea John Stewart was connected to this song.

[@sandratuttle]

I knew him from the Kingston Trio but just now learned he wrote Daydream Believer.

[@stephaniemednansky6032]

I loved the Monkees when I was a little kid and I still love. Them Davy Jones was a huge crush for me

[@shannonbates714]

In the early 90's there was a "Real live Brady Bunch" Show traveling around the country. I caught the one with Davey Jones and Davey Jones actually reprised his part. It was a great surprise!

[@brucegwynn47]

If you don't love this channel then music isn't your thing, this is a music lovers channel who want to know everything about it, and you will learn it here with the professor! The monkees reminds me of being 5 years old and not a care in the world, the 60s and 70s were magic

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Of course!

[@georgeplace8513]

I have always loved 😍❤ The Monkees. My top two albums 😀 of theirs, that I like to listen to the most are: Headquarters and the soundtrack to the movie Head. Daydream Believer was my moms favorite Monkees song 😊. Miss you ❤️😘😢mom. I love the b-side of this single: Goin Down. Yet, every time I hear this song, I think of my late mom ❤🎉. Thank you 😊 for posting this. 11/11/24.

[@liamwtf]

The Monkeys Daydream Believer truly is part of the fabric of the universe.

[@riconui5227]

Thanks for some love for John Stewart. I’ve been a fan of his music for quite an awhile. I connected with “Gold” while doing a on-air gig at an Idaho radio station. I put that song on my personal play-list and have performed it probably 300+ times in various cover bands. Sorry to know he abandoned the song. It has an altogether different meaning to me I’m sure. Good show Prof.

[@pamelahall517]

I love how much respect to give my fav group. The Monkees' history is fascinating. They fought to be genuine, the music mattered to them and they were all so very talented. They helped a lot of a unknown song writers. This was a good story. I love all the background history you bring out in all your posts. Didn't know John Stewart's interesting backstory either. Davy, who I met several times, was always a sweetheart in person. I'm glad you went into his history as well. Another great post!

[@AshleyReynolds-vc6ly]

The Monkees were a great band, so many good songs, not just their hits but deep cuts from the albums too. And so many fascinating aspects to their story. Daydream Believer is a classic, Peter's piano introduction is iconic. Micky had an awesome pop voice, but Davy's vocal is the right fit for this song.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Agreed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s just such a joy to hear that piano intro.

[@TheJukeboxjim]

Your posts are always interesting. I had the pleasure of fronting an oldies band for 30 years . Daydream believer was our last song of the night . Everyone listening to us sang along , or should I say we sang along with them . I never got tired of the song , and to this day it brings a smile to my face when I hear it . Probably more than any song in history , Daydream believer is the song I can relate to the most .Thanks , you brought back many great memories.

[@johntodd4445]

I was playing at Love Street in Houston, Texas in the summer of ‘67. So when the Monkees came to town for a concert a few of us went to see them. They put on a great show with each member highlighting their individual talents. Mickey Dolenz, for example, doing his James Brown tribute and Peter Tork doing some songs on the five string banjo. It was a memorable night and made me a believer!!

[@TB6791]

I truly appreciate the lengths, dedication, and hard work you put into each episode of POR. As a retired archivist, it's your love of what you do that put you on top for me 🎉

[@fjcrod]

I've always loved the Monkees and Daydream Believer. Thanks for the wonderful back story. I had no clue of the song's origin. The first time I heard of John Stewart was in the late 70s. I actually bought the album, Dreams Away Dream Babies, not realizing that Stewart had been around for quite awhile. As for the Monkees, isn't it time that they get the recognition they fully deserve? Like many others, I believe, they belong in the rock hall of fame. Their contributions to music history cannot be underestimated. Sure, they didn't write most of their successful songs. But then again, the same can be said for most of the Motown artists, who have been enshrined in the hall for years. Give them the credit they deserve and enshrine them immediately. A truly representative hall of fame would've had them inducted decades back. It's too bad that the only rock hall of fame we have is run by one guy and his yes men.

[@tammylewis2408]

That's changing, Ozzy got inducted as a solo artist which he rightfully deserves to be in. If he got inducted, there's hope for the Monkees, Guess Who, Three Dog Night, and all the other bands who have been snubbed.

[@mrandisg]

@@tammylewis2408 That's good to hear. Holding out hope they'll eventually get in!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He had that song with Stevie Nicks, Gold.

[@vitolafata8864]

I was and still am a HUGE "Monkees fan, I was born in 1958 so I'm a 1st generation fan, I collected all the bubble gum cards LPS, 45S, magazines you name it i collected it, I got to meet Davy in 1986, he was as nice as can be, taking his time to talk to me, he was with his daughter Jessica, Many years later one of my best friends toured with " The Monkees " playing keyboards, I was so jealous any way, keep up the the good work, I LOVE your channel, bye 4 now Vito

[@beckysmith1178]

I'm 67yrs old and I remember loving their music so much! Four of us would act out their music, as each representing one of the Monkees members, singing their songs on our school playground! To this day, when I hear one of their songs playing, I fondly reminisce of those playful days! I really wasn't one of their shows fans though! Thanks for sharing these behind the scenes facts about the song and it's writer. And the struggle to get this great quickly written gem to the world helping to catapult the song to even greater heights ever imagined!

[@stevephillips-w5v]

Nice video. I can't imagine my childhood without the Monkees TV show and my Daydream Believer 45 and the debut LP. Great memories. You had to be a child back then to understand.

[@lawrenceteft7209]

Saw him many times in concert and met him while we were both in line for a flight from SF to LA. In 1988 just as Punch the Big Guy was about to be released. I asked him to sign my notebook and he wrote “angels in your doorway.” RIP John Stewart. One of the best.

[@mtn_linda364]

Back then "funky" had the connotation of "nasty, dirty, don't want to touch".

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Right!

[@Beatle849]

I can remember the saying that stated a person was "in a funk", meaning they were mentally disoriented.

[@blueblazer201]

The Monkees belong in the R&R HOF. Long overdue. They each had musical talents besides their voices. Considering their concert tours, they were NOT fakes.

[@cathyortiz1280]

Great song! Davy was going to do a tour with David Cassidy (Partridge Family fame) the Davy died. David Cassidy sang some of Davy's songs in concert as a tribute to him.

[@guarddave]

Thank you for the spotlight on John Stewart! "Road to Freedom", "The New Frontier" and "Chilly Winds" are samples of great songs he wrote for the Kingston Trio. And his solo song about our loss of RFK, "Clack, Clack, Clack", is simply mesmorizing.

[@bartbluemusic]

Always loved this song ... was sung perfectly by Davy! My Mom used to have, and play, the Anne Murray version of it all the time too. LOL. Some good memories from those days. :)

[@ProfessorofRock]

Very cool!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I will always defend the original.

[@RobertEldonHickertyDDS]

I was a Beatles Snob. No one was better than them…but, my brother and I would always watch the Monkees TV show and we had their albums. I always thought they were a fake band, session musicians played their songs although I believed that they sang. Funny thing is that even if I just thought they were not real I still know the lyrics and can “sing” many of their songs. Daydream Believer was one of those songs you cranked up in the car and sang along too. My brother had a ‘67 Cougar, dark gold, white interior, a big old engine and a Herst transmission. We were a couple of long hairs and when I hear this song I go right back to that time. My brother didn’t really like driving around with me as I was 2 years younger and I cramped his style but when this song came on all that went away. We were just two teenagers having fun.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ernestcruz6316]

It's important to note that even though The Monkees used session musicians to play on most of their recordings, that was the rule and not the exception back then. Outside of The Beatles and Stones and maybe a handful of other groups, most bands used session players back then, and The Monkees used the same session players as The Byrds, The Grass Roots, Gary Puckett and The Union Gap, The Beach Boys, The Fifth Dimension , The Mamas & Papas, Lesley Gore, The Tijuana Brass, etc.: The Wrecking Crew. People like Hal Blaine, Leon Russell, Carol Kaye, Mike Melvoin, Larry Knechtel, Joe Osborne, Louie Shelton (the guy who played that lightning fast guitar part on "Valleri"), Tommy Tedesco, Glen Campbell...too many great musicians to mention here.

[@arribaficationwineho32]

I felt the same abt the Beatles but always watched the Monkees show. They were all musicians in spite of hVING used session musicians. I didn’t care if they were considered fake band. They weren’t fake to me

[@fazole]

Beatles and Stones were no different. Legendary drummer and session man wrote and said that he drummed on 21 Beatles tracks. Stones used Nicky Hopkins on piano, even though Keith pretended to play on one Sullivan performance.

[@mrandisg]

Thank you for this video!!!! 🎸🎸🎸🎸💖💖💖💖 "Daydream Believer" was my introduction to the Monkees. I actually heard Anne Murray's version first (I was born in 1975, so I was an 80's kid). At some point afterward, I heard the Monkees' version on a different radio station, but I didn't put two and two together at first. Later, I saw the Monkees on a local TV station that happened to be playing the reruns. "Daydream Believer" was the song playing at the time. I asked my mom, "Who are they? The Beatles?" My mom explained who they were, and from that moment on I was _hooked_. I was 12 years old. I have been in love with them ever since. The Monkees had a huge influence on my life. So much so that I began writing fanfiction about them in my 20s. That fanfiction has since evolved into an original series with original characters...but their physical descriptions are still based on the Monkees! 😁 I could go on FOREVER about how much I love the Monkees! Honestly, since I've learned that I might be autistic, I believe they are and have always been my special interest! But I guess I'd better leave it here. Again, thank you so much for making this and any video about the Monkees. You've made this Monkeemaniac very, very happy! "Now you know how happy I can be!" Haha! (PS--I think Davy made the right choice to change the lyric--his version sounds so much better imo!)

[@jillhorvat1730]

I always loved the Monkees Still do. The songs they sang always put a smile on my face. In 67 I was 7 years old and loved watching them and reruns on Saturdays. I even had the Hot wheels Monkees car. I know it’s in a box somewhere. I’ll have to find it. Getting ready to move again. They still make me smile to this day. ❤❤❤❤ thanks for all the info 👏👏👏👏😘😘

[@NelsonStJames]

So happy I got to see Davy Jones perform live, during an oldies concert with other great performers like Lou Christie and many more. He sang all the old songs and he sounded just as good as he did on the recording.

[@ernestcruz6316]

Davy: "What number is this, Chip?" Chip, Mike, Peter and Micky: "7-A!" That's the part that made the single unique among the pop hits of the day. It was always my favorite part of the record even though you very seldom heard it on the radio. Edit: Davy's single "Rainy Jane" wasn't a big enough hit to make the Top 40, but I personally knew at least 6 people in my life who bought it.

[@cherylschantz9893]

I love that song!

[@DavidBeserock]

I have it.

[@ginadoyle4089]

I LOVE that part too!

[@BettyR-qd2zr]

Absolutely

[@fritzsmith7794]

Davy: "OK, don't need to get excited, man, it's cause I'm short, I know.."

[@rubybaby7320]

I’m in tears. This song is my joy! I’m happy with the changes, I love the innocence and romance of it. There’s just enough reality for a girl who’s just married but not so much that it dampens the possibilities. And Ann Murray’s version, also Danny’s song are the sum of my wants and needs from my husband. Still are.

[@ericbgordon1575]

I was six years old when the Monkees' 20th anniversary revival took place. My sister, brother and I tuned in every afternoon for reruns of the series during the 1986-7 viewing season, Davy Jones became my sister's heartthrob, and "Daydream Believer" became her jam. When I became an adult, I learned about the Monkees' struggle to accompany themselves on tape and how Peter created that piano part on his own. (My sister expressed regret that she went to watch Barry Manilow in 2012 instead of a Monkees reunion at the same time, right before Davy passed away.) Then in 2016, just before the 50th-anniversery *Good Times* tour, I checked a Monkees compilation out of the New York Public Library whose cut of "Daydream Believer" included an outtake of both Chip Douglas and Micky, Peter and Michael telling Davy in his headphones that it was take *7A* and Davy uttering his "It's because I'm short" catch line from the series before the playback begins. Hearing that soundbite pumped out of the PA during the Monkees' NYC concert that June was like good soul food; I loooooved knowing which song it was immediately.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great memories! Thanks Eric!

[@DawnDavidson]

I remember take 7A! 😂😂😂 I must have had that same cut. 😊

[@DDKaraokeOutlaw]

I saw The Monkees 20th Anniversary Tour w/The Grass Roots, Herman's Hermits, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap at Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH. 6/86. Great show.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Cool!

[@micheleholtzmanstark9081]

I had the opportunity to see The Monkees perform many many times - sometimes as groups or duets or trios. I saw all 4 perform as solo acts as well. But no one was more generous with his fans than Davy Jones. No matter what was happening, he would stop, pose for photos, be full of smiles and graciousness, and look you right in the eye and say something kind. The year before he passed away, I saw one of his final concerts and he allowed a group of women in their 50s and 60s to approach the stage and while he sang, he hugged them and took their hands and knelt down to them. I’ll never forget it. I’m a music lover and have been to a million concerts, but there will never be anyone kinder and more amazing to fans than Davy Jones.

[@desiguy55]

this is one of my favorite songs of the monkees. such a fun song with a hint of melancholy.. RIP John Stewart and Davy jones.

[@royschultz1377]

Daydream Believer is one of my favorite Monkees songs. I remember watching their TV premier on a 19" B&W TV

[@stinkypinkeee5085]

This song is actually dreamy...I always thought this was the ultimate expression of the mid sixties...

[@ProfessorofRock]

For real!

[@RickaramaTrama-lc1ys]

Another great expression of the 60's from them is "Another pleasant valley Sunday"=she has a TV in every room~!!!

[@stinkypinkeee5085]

@@RickaramaTrama-lc1ys Agreed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It really was.

[@catherine6653]

I have this 45 single. Peter Tork's piano introduction is terrific!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

One of the best song intros of all time.

[@Mikkibriteside]

My friend went with me to see Mike and Micky perform. There were definitely people there who had no idea how iconic the Monkees are. Even my friend wasn't that clued in. She was distracted by people around us misbehaving. It was my Birthday..no one on this earth was going to ruin it for me! I grew up with them and it was the first time I had ever gotten to see them live. Mike left the stage several times. He did a great show but I could tell he was tired. I cried on the way out. Another man was also crying..most of the audience was oblivious. Mike died exactly 30 days later. 😢 My friend was blown away.. It was very sad..but I also think we were SO LUCKY to see them. A birthday I'll never forget. I'm so grateful.

[@dianefontaine7204]

I saw The Monkees in concert a number of times in the '80s and '90s, sans Mike, and met Davy, Mick and Peter in between shows and my friends and I took some photos with them. It was all a lot of fun. In one show Davy was on bended knee singing "I Wanna Be Free" and I snapped a couple of great shots of him. About a year later when Davy was promoting a book, I got him to sign one of those photos and he looked shocked to see it. "Did you take that?" he asked. I affirmed I had taken it and he said, "That's really good." They were a fun band and I still enjoy their music. Thanks for your video, Professor.

[@craiggerrard5117]

I saw John Stewart twice in the 1980s, first in 1985 and then in 1989, both times in Liverpool UK. The first one was with a backing band, the second totally solo. Both were brilliant. I remember him saying that he wrote a song for Elvis in the 1960s. He said that Elvis never recorded it but he hadn't given up hope.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing!

[@garyjackson3531]

Thanks once again Professor! I was a kid when The Monkees debuted in prime time. Loved the music. The show went on in syndication for years. Once the band broke away from Don Kirschner they really because a band with meaningful music. The influence Mike Nesmith alone had on music is rather incredible. Plus he was a good songwriter. Wrote "Different Drum" for example. Your deep dive into "Daydream Believer" is fascinating and enjoyable. As good as it gets. Thank you for everything you do.

[@jamesholman2346]

I was born in 1971. I didn’t know much about Monkees until the TV show reappeared on MTV in 1986, I think. MTV was new to me then, having appeared on my local cable channels in 1985 when we had our channels upgraded by our new cable box from the old 13 channel system to 36. Any way, there were The Monkees for a new generation to enjoy. I remember this leading to a new album in 1987 called Pool It, minus Michael Nesmith. I remember the other three Monkees plugging this album heavily. America seems to love nostalgia, and I remember this being every bit part of 60s nostalgia in the 80s like Gilligan’s Island and the Batman TV series. What a time, and the Monkees, what a band; yes I said band.

[@eggy4152]

I use to be fan of the bugs and the monkees, but feel in love with the monkees,when I saw their show,and that was it. Day dream believer makes me cry everytime now,since Mr Jones passed,that and Girl. The video music clip puts a smile on my face,with them clowning around. ☀️💕👋🇦🇺

[@mercedesaponte6201]

I am 61 and grew up watching The Monkeys on Saturday mornings! Also, had one of their 8 track tapes. 👏👏👏👏

[@cindyrobinson3077]

Me too😊 great memories

[@sm5574]

1:12 that's what has always drawn me to the Monkees: it just such a fascinating story, and the way I view the players has grown as I have. And to top it off, there's a fun TV series, a crazy movie, and an awesome soundtrack.

[@timothymarkin4481]

John’s brother Michael Stewart was the producer of Billy Joel’s first two albums on Columbia Records, Piano Man and Streetlife Serenade.

[@ProfessorofRock]

THat's right!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Cool! I did not know that.

[@2shadowcats2]

I loved STREETLIFE SERENADE!! It was fabulous!!

[@karentrimmer]

My memory of this song is learning I had a talent that others heard but I didn't. I was with a group of friends singing along to some records. When this song came on, someone said to me "You sound just like Davy Jones." To which my BFF said "You should hear her do Carol King, she can imitate anyone." Some put on "Sweet Seasons" and I realized they were right. It wasn't something I intended to do, it just happens!

[@highpsi11]

You have a gift! There are people whose whole act is imitating other great singers. They work at it very hard and perform in Las Vegas and are respected for their incredible vocal skills.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s so cool!

[@ConnieRoseknows]

I was four years old in 1966. The first time I watched The Monkees show I fell madly in love (as much as a four year old can) with Davy Jones. My mom bought me the album. I still have it to this day and it plays perfectly. I love the band then, and I still love it to this day. What a great episode. It made me subscribe!

[@jencorn4338]

"7A" "What number is this, Chip?" (Yelling) "7A!" "I mean, don't get excited, it's cos I'm short, I know!" One of the best outtakes to ever start a song! I met Davy during the 1986 20th Anniversary tour, and yes, he was short, but he was also a helluva singer! I can't believe they still aren't in the RnR HoF! Blasphemy! They toured, did television appearances, they did everything other musicians in the day were doing.

[@martinjustet5345]

I still remember like it was yesterday, I would always watch the show The Monkees. Love that show and the songs, great memories back then.

[@the_original_jt]

I loved the song , still do. I enjoyed a lot of their material actually. I got to see the Monkees farewell tour (Mike and Micky) shortly before Mike’s passing, and it was a really enjoyable show.

[@davebloombeat]

“Daydream Believer” was one of those songs that I, as a nine-year-old, used to close my eyes and listen to as I fantasized that I was the singer of the song, bringing joy to millions. Fast forward to 2000, I had the pleasure of meeting Davy, thanking him for the joy he brought me and I could see him getting misty eyed when I told him that my son, like his dad, was a huge fan and how much I appreciated that he was not only multitalented; he was a real gentleman. Davy was not full of himself and did not let fame make him conceited; he always loved his fans. We have lost too many brilliant artists over the generations, but when I heard that Davy passed, I wept like a baby. Davy, I hope wherever you are, you know just how loved you truly are worldwide. Thank you, Davy, for sharing with us the gift of yourself and your music.💙

[@serendipityshopnyc]

Thank you for explaining about the changed lyric. That line never quite made sense to me with the word "happy" in it. But the tune and delivery were so irresistible, who could not sing along and love it?

[@mayormerq08-23]

You are amazing, Prof! The information that you gather about all of your posts is truly remarkable! Thanks for all you do for the music lovers worldwide!