About The Song
The Monkees, America’s beloved pop-rock quartet from the 1960s, were known for their infectious melodies, youthful energy, and ability to capture the essence of young love and longing. However, beneath their bubbly exterior lay a depth often overlooked. “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round,” a poignant track from their 1967 album “Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd.,” delves into the turmoil of a restless heart, torn between staying and leaving, comfort and the unknown. Penned by Michael Martin Murphey and Owen Castleman, this introspective ballad showcases the band’s versatility and their ability to tackle themes of self-doubt and uncertainty with sensitivity and relatability.
“What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round” opens with a melancholic guitar riff, immediately setting a contemplative mood. Mike Nesmith’s distinctive vocals, imbued with a sense of yearning and introspection, perfectly convey the protagonist’s inner turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with a difficult decision: should he stay in a familiar situation that no longer fulfills him, or should he take a leap of faith and pursue a new path? Lines like “I should be on that train and gone, I should be ridin’ on that train to San Antone” express his desire for change, while simultaneously revealing his fear of the unknown.
The song’s narrative unfolds with a sense of internal conflict. The protagonist, caught between his yearning for freedom and his fear of leaving behind the familiar, finds himself paralyzed by indecision. He reflects on past mistakes and missed opportunities, wondering if he’s destined to repeat the same patterns. This internal struggle resonates with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of making life-altering choices.
Musically, “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round” is a departure from The Monkees’ more upbeat and carefree hits. The melancholic melody, combined with the introspective lyrics, creates an atmosphere of contemplation and uncertainty. The instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar, bass, and drums, is understated yet effective, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take center stage.
While “What Am I Doing Hangin’ Round” may not be one of The Monkees’ most commercially successful singles, it showcases their depth as artists and their ability to explore complex emotions with honesty and vulnerability. This introspective gem offers a poignant reflection on the challenges of self-discovery and the universal struggle to find one’s place in the world.