About The Song
“Can You Dig It?”: The Monkees’ Psychedelic Puzzle from ‘Head’
In the kaleidoscopic world of 1960s pop culture, where music, film, and television collided in a burst of creative energy, The Monkees’ song “Can You Dig It?” stands as a curious and enigmatic gem. Released in 1968 as part of their experimental film and soundtrack album, “Head,” this track embodies the era’s spirit of experimentation and its quest for deeper meaning amidst the swirling colors and sounds of the counterculture.
The Monkees, initially conceived as a television band, quickly transcended their manufactured origins to become a genuine musical force. Their infectious pop melodies and youthful exuberance captured the hearts of millions, but “Can You Dig It?” reveals a more introspective and philosophical side to the group.
With its swirling psychedelic soundscape and cryptic lyrics, “Can You Dig It?” invites the listener on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation. The song’s opening lines, “Something doesn’t change / There is only one / Always changing inside / What does it become?” set the stage for a meditation on the nature of reality and the search for personal identity.
The Monkees’ layered vocals, accompanied by a tapestry of distorted guitars, swirling organs, and hypnotic percussion, create a sonic landscape that mirrors the song’s lyrical themes. The music evokes a sense of disorientation and wonder, inviting the listener to question their assumptions and embrace the unknown.
“Can You Dig It?” is more than just a psychedelic pop song; it’s a reflection of the cultural zeitgeist of the late 1960s. It captures the era’s fascination with Eastern philosophy, its questioning of societal norms, and its search for a deeper understanding of the human experience. The song’s open-ended lyrics and experimental soundscape encourage the listener to engage with the music on a personal level, to find their own meaning within its enigmatic verses.
While “Can You Dig It?” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of The Monkees’ other hits, it remains a fascinating and thought-provoking piece of music. It’s a testament to the group’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. For those who appreciate the psychedelic sounds and philosophical musings of the 1960s, “Can You Dig It?” offers a captivating glimpse into a transformative era in music and culture.