About The Song
The Monkees, despite their manufactured origins as a television band, consistently sought to expand their musical horizons and explore themes that resonated with a more mature audience. Their discography, particularly their later work, reveals a growing sophistication in their songwriting choices and a willingness to tackle subjects that went beyond the typical pop fare of the time. An older, educated audience, looking beyond the band’s teen idol image, can discover a wealth of hidden gems within their catalog, songs that showcase their genuine musical talent and their ability to convey complex emotions with sincerity.
Released in 1969 as the B-side to the single “Listen to the Band”, and also featured on the album “Instant Replay“, “Someday Man” stands as a shining example of The Monkees’ embrace of more mature and introspective songwriting. Written by Paul Williams and Roger Nichols, a renowned songwriting team responsible for numerous hits for other artists, the song is a testament to the enduring power of hope and the belief in a brighter future. It’s a song that transcends its era, offering a message of resilience that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Musically, “Someday Man” features a bright, optimistic arrangement, with a driving rhythm section, uplifting horns, and Davy Jones’s earnest vocals at the forefront. The melody is catchy and memorable, yet it possesses a depth that belies the band’s earlier, more simplistic pop sound. The arrangement creates a sense of forward momentum, mirroring the song’s theme of striving for a better tomorrow.
The lyrics of “Someday Man,” penned by Williams and Nichols, tell the story of a man who is facing hardship and adversity but refuses to give up hope. He clings to the belief that his “someday” will come, a time when his struggles will be over and his dreams will be realized. The song’s message is universal, speaking to the human capacity for resilience and the enduring power of optimism in the face of life’s challenges.
For an older, educated audience, “Someday Man” offers a compelling example of The Monkees’ growth as artists and their ability to connect with listeners on a deeper emotional level. It’s a song that resonates with those who have faced their own struggles and who understand the importance of holding on to hope, even when times are tough. The song’s timeless message, combined with the strength of its songwriting and the sincerity of its performance, makes it a standout track in The Monkees’ catalog. “Someday Man” serves as a reminder that even within the context of a seemingly lighthearted pop group, there can be moments of profound insight and a genuine desire to create music that is both meaningful and enduring.