“I Never Thought It Peculiar” by The Monkees: A Quirky and Reflective Song About Self-Discovery

About the song

“I Never Thought It Peculiar” is a delightful yet introspective track from The Monkees’ 1968 album The Monkees Present, showcasing a different side of the band as they explored more complex themes and musically adventurous ideas. Written by Michael Nesmith, this song is filled with witty lyrics, subtle humor, and an underlying sense of self-discovery that resonates with listeners on a deeper level than many of The Monkees’ more commercial pop tunes.

Lyrically, the song touches on themes of reflection and personal realization. The narrator expresses a sense of bewilderment as they look back on their experiences, pondering how they’ve arrived at their current place in life. The line “I never thought it peculiar” serves as a refrain that reflects the singer’s previous lack of awareness, hinting at moments of self-revelation and the unpredictability of personal growth. The lyrics weave between humorous and thoughtful, as the narrator grapples with the contradictions of life, love, and relationships. It’s a perfect example of Nesmith’s songwriting style, combining a light, humorous tone with more thoughtful and reflective content.

Musically, “I Never Thought It Peculiar” blends folk and rock influences, which were becoming increasingly prominent in the late 1960s. The track begins with a relaxed acoustic guitar strumming, complemented by a smooth bassline and subtle percussion, creating a laid-back atmosphere that mirrors the song’s reflective nature. The melody is catchy yet understated, allowing the focus to remain on the lyrics and the emotional undercurrent of the track. The arrangement, while simple, offers a perfect backdrop for the lyrical content, providing just enough space for the song’s introspection to shine through.

One of the song’s standout features is its vocal performance, especially by Micky Dolenz. Dolenz’s voice is warm and engaging, bringing just the right amount of sincerity and wit to the song. The delivery is relaxed yet emotionally resonant, allowing the lyrics to feel personal and relatable. His vocals are complemented by harmonies from the other members of the band, which gives the song a fuller, more layered feel. The result is a song that is both catchy and thoughtful, balancing pop sensibilities with a deeper emotional resonance.

The arrangement and tone of “I Never Thought It Peculiar” offer an intriguing departure from the usual pop style that The Monkees were known for, showcasing their ability to delve into more mature themes. This track, while playful in its delivery, touches on the more complex emotions of self-awareness and the sometimes confusing journey of self-discovery. The band was starting to explore more nuanced material, offering a reflection of the changing musical and cultural landscape of the 1960s.

“I Never Thought It Peculiar” is an example of The Monkees’ growing sophistication as musicians and songwriters. While still rooted in the band’s lighthearted pop roots, the song also reveals a desire to experiment with new sounds and explore deeper lyrical themes. It stands as a memorable track on The Monkees Present and highlights Michael Nesmith’s ability to blend humor with introspection, creating a song that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.

In the context of The Monkees’ discography, “I Never Thought It Peculiar” represents the band’s increasing musical maturity and their willingness to experiment beyond their earlier bubblegum pop image. For fans of the band, this track offers a refreshing look at their ability to tackle personal themes with wit, charm, and emotional insight, making it a standout on the album and a perfect example of the band’s versatility and depth.

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