About the song
When The Monkees first emerged onto the music scene in 1966, they captured the hearts of listeners with their catchy tunes and infectious energy. Known for their television show as much as their music, The Monkees were able to successfully blend pop and rock in a way that appealed to a wide audience. However, one of their lesser-known gems, “Gravy”, stands out as an example of their quirky yet inventive musical style. Released as part of their 1967 album The Birds, The Bees & The Monkees, “Gravy” offers a delightful combination of playful humor and sophisticated musicality, with lyrics that reveal the band’s ability to embrace whimsy without sacrificing depth.
Written by the Monkees’ frequent collaborators, Neil Diamond, “Gravy” is a song that might seem at first to be lighthearted, but on closer examination, it displays a deeper appreciation for music, food, and family traditions, especially around the holidays. The playful tone of the song is grounded in its celebratory atmosphere, which is a hallmark of The Monkees’ ability to take ordinary subjects and turn them into something universally relatable, yet uniquely fun. In this case, the song revolves around the holiday tradition of Thanksgiving, and more specifically, the importance of gravy at the dinner table. While this may seem like an unusual focal point for a song, it speaks to the Monkees’ knack for transforming even the simplest of topics into something infectious and memorable.
Musically, “Gravy” is a mix of traditional pop and rock influences, with a slight hint of soulful rhythm that nods to the genre of music that was increasingly popular during the late 1960s. The smooth melodies and rich harmonies are classic Monkees, yet the song also shows the band’s growth as musicians. The layered instrumentation and playful rhythms create a sense of warmth and joy, a perfect backdrop to the lighthearted lyrics about a simple, yet essential, element of family gatherings.
Beyond the fun lyrics and catchy melody, “Gravy” also holds an important place in the Monkees’ legacy. It represents the band’s ability to blend humor with musical sophistication. While not one of their most commercially successful songs, “Gravy” holds a special place in the hearts of Monkees fans and remains a delightful reminder of their unique approach to pop music. It’s a reminder that The Monkees were never just about being a pop group; they were about creating music that made people smile—and “Gravy” is a perfect example of that.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Monkees or discovering their work for the first time, “Gravy” is a fun and lighthearted reminder of the power of music to bring people together, even if the subject is something as simple as a holiday favorite. And as we know, sometimes it’s the simplest things in life that are the most meaningful.