About The Song
The Monkees, often dismissed as a mere made-for-TV pop group, continually sought to transcend their manufactured image and establish themselves as legitimate musicians. Their later albums, in particular, showcased a growing desire to experiment with different sounds, embrace more complex songwriting, and even inject a dose of social commentary into their music. An older, educated audience, willing to look beyond the band’s early hits, can discover a wealth of hidden gems within their discography that reveal a more mature and artistically ambitious band than their initial reputation might suggest.
“The Story of Rock and Roll,” a track from their 1969 album “The Monkees Present,” is a fascinating example of the band’s evolution and their willingness to embrace unconventional material. Written by the acclaimed singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson, the song is not a straightforward history of rock and roll, as the title might imply, but rather a more ironic and layered commentary on the music industry itself. The track is further distinguished by its unique production, particularly the backwards recording of Micky Dolenz’s lead vocals, adding a distinctive sonic texture that sets it apart from the rest of the band’s catalog.
Musically, “The Story of Rock and Roll” features a blend of rock and roll with sound effects, creating a somewhat chaotic and surreal atmosphere. The backwards vocals, while initially jarring, add to the song’s unconventional charm and create a sense of playful experimentation. The instrumentation is likely a mix of traditional rock instruments with some studio experimentation, reflecting the band’s desire to push creative boundaries.
The lyrics of “The Story of Rock and Roll,” as crafted by Harry Nilsson, are likely filled with irony and satire, perhaps offering a cynical take on the music industry’s commercialism and the often-superficial nature of fame. The song might be telling the story from the perspective of someone who has seen behind the curtain, who understands the machinery that drives the hit-making process. The backwards vocals could be interpreted as a symbolic representation of the industry’s manipulative tendencies, twisting and distorting the music for commercial gain.
For an older, educated audience, “The Story of Rock and Roll” offers a compelling and somewhat subversive example of The Monkees’ artistic growth. It’s a song that resonates with those who appreciate clever songwriting, who enjoy music that challenges conventions, and who are interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of the music industry. The song’s message, while delivered with a touch of humor, raises questions about authenticity, artistic integrity, and the often-contentious relationship between art and commerce. “The Story of Rock and Roll” showcases The Monkees’ willingness to embrace unconventional material and to collaborate with talented songwriters like Harry Nilsson, solidifying their place as a band that was more than just a manufactured pop act, but a group of musicians capable of surprising and engaging their audience with unexpected and thought-provoking music.