About the song
“Gonna Build a Mountain” was originally written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley and performed by The Monkees in a live version during their 1967 TV special 33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee. The track, which was part of an experimental and avant-garde special, has become a standout live performance for its bold, theatrical energy and optimistic message.
The live version of the song is an energetic, high-spirited rendition filled with dramatic flourishes and showmanship. The song itself is an anthem of determination and ambition, with lyrics that declare the narrator’s intention to build a mountain—a metaphor for achieving great things and overcoming obstacles. Micky Dolenz, the lead vocalist on this track, delivers the performance with confidence and theatrical flair, capturing the song’s bold optimism and the triumphant spirit of someone determined to reach new heights.
The live version adds a layer of energy and dynamism that’s characteristic of The Monkees’ stage performances during their 1960s shows. Dolenz’s vocal performance is vibrant and engaging, pulling the audience into the spirit of the song. The backing vocals are lush and harmonized, further enhancing the song’s theatrical quality. The music itself features full-band instrumentation with upbeat rhythms, bright brass accents, and rich harmonies, all contributing to an over-the-top feeling of joy and ambition.
Lyrically, “Gonna Build a Mountain” expresses the narrator’s desire to take on great challenges and reach for big dreams, no matter the obstacles. Lines like “I’m gonna build a mountain / That’s higher than high / I’m gonna build a mountain / So high it touches the sky” reflect the theme of ambition and optimism. It’s a song about setting impossible goals and striving to achieve them—an uplifting sentiment that resonates with anyone facing personal challenges.
Musically, the live version adds extra flair compared to the original studio version, thanks to the energy of the live performance. The brassy instrumentation, pounding drums, and sharply syncopated rhythms bring a musical vivacity to the track, making it a perfect fit for live shows. The song’s arrangement gives it a sense of momentum that builds as it progresses, reinforcing the theme of climbing toward greatness.
Although “Gonna Build a Mountain” wasn’t one of The Monkees’ biggest chart successes, the live version of the song stands out for its joyful exuberance and theatrical energy. It remains an important piece in The Monkees’ catalog, offering a perfect showcase of their live performance style and their ability to bring a sense of joyful ambition to the stage.
Today, “Gonna Build a Mountain” (Live Version) is appreciated for its musical exuberance, optimistic lyrics, and high-energy performance. It’s a track that highlights The Monkees’ ability to combine musical storytelling with performance to create something memorable and entertaining for the audience. Whether celebrated for its bold message or its joyful spirit, it remains an important and lively part of The Monkees’ legacy.