About the song
“Blues” from The Monkees’ 1967 album Headquarters is an intriguing, somewhat experimental track that plays with elements of blues, rock, and psychedelic influences. Written by Mike Nesmith, this track departs from the more typical pop formula of the time and embraces a looser, more jam-oriented sound, showcasing The Monkees’ growing interest in musical experimentation and a more organic approach to songwriting.
The song opens with a driving rhythm, setting a bluesy foundation with jangly guitars, and a funky beat. It feels raw and spontaneous, almost like a musical jam session, where the band members are able to explore and stretch their musical muscles. The tight rhythm section provides a steady, almost hypnotic groove, while the guitar work remains simple yet effective, giving the track a loose but energetic vibe. The song doesn’t follow a traditional verse-chorus structure, making it more of a musical experiment than a typical pop song.
Lyrically, “Blues” is somewhat sparse, focusing more on the feel and vibe of the blues genre rather than telling a detailed story. The track is filled with repetitive phrases and simple lyrics, reflecting the emotional resonance of the blues itself. The lyrics reflect the classic blues theme of struggle and heartache, but the overall feel of the song is playful and lighthearted, adding a sense of irony to the typical blues tropes.
The vocal delivery is laid-back and casual, with Micky Dolenz taking the lead, adding a gritty edge to the song that matches its raw, bluesy vibe. There is a sense of fun and spontaneity to his performance, which gives the track a feeling of authenticity, despite its simplistic nature.
“Blues” is a standout track on Headquarters because it showcases The Monkees’ ability to step outside of their typical pop mold and experiment with different genres and sounds. The song’s lo-fi, jam-oriented approach is a departure from the more polished tracks they were known for. It’s a great example of how the band embraced artistic freedom during this period and began to take more control over their music.
Though it wasn’t a commercial hit, “Blues” has become a cult favorite among fans who appreciate the band’s willingness to experiment and step outside their comfort zone. It remains a quirky and fun moment in The Monkees’ catalog, capturing a spirit of musical exploration that was present during their 1967 era.
Today, “Blues” is a reminder of The Monkees’ musical versatility, showing that they were more than just a pop band and capable of embracing a range of sounds from rock and blues to psychedelia. Its loose, funky vibe continues to engage listeners, making it a standout track that adds depth and diversity to their discography.