About the song
“Don’t Listen to Linda” from The Monkees’ 1967 album Headquarters is a catchy and playful track that showcases the band’s ability to craft fun pop songs while addressing the complexities of relationships. Written by Michael Nesmith, the song combines a lighthearted melody with witty lyrics, creating a humorous take on love, advice, and the consequences of listening to the wrong people when it comes to matters of the heart.
The song opens with an upbeat, bouncy rhythm, featuring bright guitar and percussion that immediately set a joyful tone. Micky Dolenz delivers the lead vocals with playful energy, giving the track a spirited and fun vibe. His voice captures the light-hearted nature of the song, and the harmonized backing vocals add an extra layer of charm to the performance, making it feel like a sing-along moment.
Lyrically, “Don’t Listen to Linda” is about a relationship dilemma, where the narrator advises someone not to take advice from Linda, who seems to be offering misguided counsel about the narrator’s feelings. The song humorously suggests that Linda is perhaps not the best source of wisdom when it comes to love, adding a sense of comic relief to the often serious subject of relationships. The playful line “Don’t listen to Linda, / She don’t know what love is,” highlights the tongue-in-cheek nature of the song, as it treats the issue of romantic advice with humor and light sarcasm.
Musically, the song blends pop, folk, and rock elements with an infectious melody and catchy guitar riff. The rhythm section is tight, maintaining the song’s upbeat and energetic feel throughout. The simple yet effective instrumental arrangement complements the playful tone of the lyrics, allowing the vocal harmonies and lyrical wit to shine through.
While “Don’t Listen to Linda” was not a commercial hit, it has become a fan favorite for its fun, lighthearted energy and clever lyrics. It reflects The Monkees’ ability to mix humor with emotional complexity, delivering a song that is both entertaining and relatable.
Today, “Don’t Listen to Linda” stands as a playful, charming piece of The Monkees’ catalog, offering a lighthearted perspective on the often humorous complications of love. It remains a memorable example of the band’s ability to craft catchy tunes that offer entertainment as well as a clever narrative. Whether enjoyed for its upbeat rhythm or its witty lyrics, the track continues to delight listeners with its charming take on romance.