About the song
“Can You Dig It?” from The Monkees’ 1968 album Headquarters is an instrumental track that stands as a quirky, experimental piece in the band’s catalog. Written by Micky Dolenz and Michael Nesmith, the song’s psychedelic grooves and freeform instrumental jam were a departure from the band’s usual pop-based sound, embracing the psychedelic rock influence that was taking over the music scene during the late 1960s. While the song lacks traditional lyrics, it’s still packed with social commentary and musical innovation that showcases The Monkees’ growing willingness to experiment and evolve.
The track opens with a groovy bassline that sets the tone for the song’s laid-back yet hypnotic rhythm. The instrumental arrangement is a combination of driving percussion, jazzy keyboard lines, and improvised guitar riffs that create a soundscape reflective of the psychedelic movement. The absence of traditional lyrics makes the track feel more like an atmospheric piece, almost like a musical journey through the sounds of the time.
The title, “Can You Dig It?”, references a popular phrase from the 1960s, often used to ask someone if they understand or appreciate something. It reflects the cultural shift happening at the time, as young people were exploring new ways of thinking and living. The phrase itself carries a sense of openness to new ideas and experiences, and in the context of this track, it feels like an invitation to embrace the groovy, freewheeling vibe of the song.
The song’s instrumentation takes center stage as The Monkees experiment with psychedelic sounds, playing off the sonic textures created by the rhythm section, while Nesmith’s guitar and Dolenz’s percussion work together to create a cohesive, fluid piece. The reverb-heavy guitar, coupled with the minimalist drumming, gives the track a sense of space and psychedelic freedom, as if the music is flowing naturally without any rigid structure.
“Can You Dig It?” serves as a reminder that The Monkees, while often seen as a lighthearted pop group, were capable of experimenting with different musical styles and embracing the cultural shifts of the time. Though the song wasn’t a major commercial hit, it’s become a cult favorite for fans of The Monkees’ more experimental and psychedelic work. It highlights their ability to stretch beyond their typical pop mold and explore new, creative avenues.
Today, “Can You Dig It?” is an example of The Monkees’ ability to evolve musically, tapping into the growing psychedelic movement of the late 1960s. It’s a track that captures the spirit of experimentation and social change of the era, offering fans a glimpse of The Monkees’ diverse musical range.