About The Song
The Monkees, often remembered for their upbeat pop hits, showcase a more introspective and melancholic side with “Love Is Only Sleeping.” This gentle ballad, featured on their 1967 album Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd., delves into the complexities of love and loss, exploring the idea that affection can sometimes fade or become dormant, waiting to be reawakened.
The song’s lyrics, written by the renowned songwriting duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, paint a picture of a love that has lost its spark. The narrator observes the fading affection in his partner’s eyes, sensing a distance and a loss of passion.
“And the emptiness in her eyes was cruel to see Then she turned away and said, ‘Once I loved, but love is dead'”
These lines convey the sadness and resignation of a love that seems to have slipped away. However, the song’s recurring message offers a glimmer of hope:
“Sometimes love is only sleeping”
This refrain suggests that even when love appears to be lost, it may simply be dormant, waiting for the right moment to reawaken.
“Love Is Only Sleeping” is a testament to The Monkees’ versatility as artists. While they were often associated with upbeat pop tunes and comedic antics, this song demonstrates their ability to tackle more complex and introspective themes. It’s a reminder that love, like life itself, can have its periods of dormancy and renewal.
Musically, the song features a dreamy, ethereal arrangement with gentle acoustic guitar, soft strings, and a touch of psychedelia. Mike Nesmith’s lead vocals, delivered with a wistful tenderness, perfectly complement the song’s contemplative mood.
For those seeking a deeper exploration of love and loss from The Monkees, “Love Is Only Sleeping” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that even when love seems to fade, there’s always the possibility of reawakening, of finding new life and passion in a dormant connection. So turn up the volume, let the music transport you to a dreamscape of emotions, and embrace the hope that love, even when sleeping, can be rekindled.