Which of the Monkees were actual musicians?

There's a common misconception that the members of The Monkees were just actors pretending to be musicians. However, a closer look at their backgrounds and careers reveals a much more interesting story. Each member of the band had a rich musical heritage and background well before they were introduced to the world as The Monkees. Let's delve into their individual musical histories and talents.

1. Peter Tork: The Multi-Instrumentalist

Peter Tork, or Peter Torkelson as he was born, is a key figure in the Monkees' music. He was already a multi-talented musician in the Greenwich Village folk scene long before his fellow musicians recommended him to the show's producers. He excelled at playing guitar, banjo, and piano. This diverse range of skills contributed significantly to the band's sound and helped them create a diverse and dynamic album of folk and rock music.

Peter Tork on stage with his banjo in Greenwich Village circa 1964, well before the Monkees.

2. Michael Nesmith: The Folk-Rock Guitarist

Michael Nesmith was another key member with a strong musical background. He had already garnered some recognition as a folk-rock guitarist, with two of his compositions recorded by other artists: "Different Drum" by Linda Ronstadt and the Stone Pioneers, and "Mary Mary" by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. This demonstrates his significant talent and the respect he earned in the music industry even before joining The Monkees.

"Different Drum" by Linda Ronstadt, with Michael Nesmith as the writer, showing his already established place in the folk-rock scene before the Monkees.

3. Davy Jones: The Versatile Performer

Davy Jones, whose real name is David Jones, was a former child star who transitioned into a solo musical act. He had already released his first solo album, "David Jones," and his first single, "What Are We Going to Do," had some success on the Billboard Top 100 charts. This period illustrates his commitment to pursuing a singing and performing career, which he continued to pursue after joining The Monkees.

The single sleeve of Davy Jones' first single "What Are We Going to Do" off his debut album, "David Jones," in 1965. The single reached the lower end of the Billboard Top 100 in August 1965.

4. Mickey Dolenz: The Multi-Talented Drummer

Mickey Dolenz, on the other hand, began his career as the lead vocalist of a band in high school called Mickey and the One Nighters. Although they didn't achieve commercial success, their recorded singles, such as "Don't Do It," demonstrate his ability to sing and perform. After becoming a Monkee, Dolenz quickly learned to play drums and became proficient, adding a dynamic rhythmic component to the band's performances and recordings.

Mickey Dolenz, left, with one of his two singles "Don't Do It" from 1965, before he became a Monkee.

Conclusion and Ongoing Evolution

Each member of The Monkees brought a unique and authentic background to the group. They were not just actors pretending to play instruments; they were true musicians who continued to evolve their talents and explore new sounds throughout their careers. Even Mickey Dolenz, who started as a singer, became a skilled drummer, showcasing that musicianship can be acquired and refined over time.

In addition to their musical abilities, the Monkees also enjoyed creative collaborations. For instance, Mickey Dolenz co-wrote a song called "I Was There And Im Told I Had a Good Time" on their 2016 album, demonstrating his continued engagement with the music industry and his ongoing contributions to the band.

The story of The Monkees is richer and more nuanced than ever thought. Their musical journey and collective talent form the foundation of one of the most legendary pop groups of the 1960s, and their evolution and individual growth continue to captivate their audience long after their heyday.