About The Song
“Opening Ceremony”: The Monkees’ Quirky and Dramatic Introduction to Head
The Monkees, known for their playful and often unpredictable nature, set the stage for their experimental film Head with the aptly titled “Opening Ceremony.” This brief yet dramatic track, clocking in at just under two minutes, serves as a fitting introduction to the film’s surreal and unconventional journey.
Rather than a traditional song, “Opening Ceremony” is a spoken-word piece with a theatrical flair. The Monkees’ voices, echoing and overlapping, deliver a series of pronouncements and declarations that are both humorous and slightly unsettling.
“We are The Monkees. We are being watched. We are the young generation.”
These lines, delivered with a mix of seriousness and irony, set the tone for a film that challenges expectations and breaks the fourth wall. The Monkees acknowledge their manufactured image while simultaneously asserting their individuality and their desire to break free from the constraints of their pop star personas.
“Opening Ceremony” is a testament to The Monkees’ willingness to embrace the unconventional and challenge the norms of traditional entertainment. It’s a fitting introduction to Head, a film that defies categorization and takes viewers on a psychedelic and often surreal journey.
Musically, the track features a dramatic and somewhat unsettling soundscape with swirling strings, distorted sound effects, and a sense of impending chaos. The Monkees’ voices, echoing and overlapping, add to the sense of disorientation and intrigue.
For those seeking a glimpse into The Monkees’ more experimental and unconventional side, “Opening Ceremony” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder that the band was more than just a manufactured pop group; they were a group of artists who weren’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge expectations. So turn up the volume, let The Monkees’ dramatic pronouncements transport you to the world of Head, and prepare for a cinematic experience that is both playful and thought-provoking.