What is the best The Monkees album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd." (1967). It's the most representative of what makes The Monkees worth hearing.

What are the best The Monkees albums?

The essential The Monkees albums include "The Monkees" (1966), "Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd." (1967), "More of the Monkees" (1967), "Randy Scouse Git" (1967) and "Headquarters" (1967).

How many albums does The Monkees have?

The Monkees has 65 releases in their discography, including 27 albums and 3 EPs.

Photo: Colgems Records · Public domain

The Monkees

Q: Who is The Monkees for?

If you're into pop rock, The Monkees is worth your time. With infectious hooks and rhythmic drive, their music propels forward through syncopated grooves and layered harmonies that evoke a sense of joyful exuberance.

With infectious hooks and rhythmic drive, their music propels forward through syncopated grooves and layered harmonies that evoke a sense of joyful exuberance.

pop rock

United States Est. 1966

Read about The Monkees on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd. album by The Monkees

Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd. (1967)

This album exemplifies their signature sound with catchy melodies and diverse styles, making it accessible for new listeners.

The song

“I'm a Believer”

The song features an infectious hook that captures the essence of The Monkees' pop rock style, serving as an engaging introduction.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"(Theme From) The Monkees" — from The Monkees - Greatest Hits (1995) (1995)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"Right Now" — from Dolenz, Jones, Boyce & Hart (1976)

accessible entry with immediate hook
3

"Last Train to Clarksville" — from Live 1967 (1987)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Take a Giant Step" — from More Greatest Hits of The Monkees (1982)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Through the Looking Glass (alternate version)" — from Missing Links Volume Three (1996)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"All the King’s Horses" — from Missing Links Volume Two (1990)

establishes the sonic palette early

About The Monkees

The Monkees hold a significant place in music history as a cultural artifact of the 1960s, embodying the collision between manufactured pop and genuine artistry.

They emerged not merely as a band, but as a phenomenon that challenged traditional notions of authenticity in art by blending scripted television with musical performance.

They emerged not merely as a band, but as a phenomenon that challenged traditional notions of authenticity in art by blending scripted television with musical performance. Their ability to capture the carefree spirit of youth while simultaneously critiquing the very nature of pop culture allows them to resonate across generations, making their work feel both nostalgic and relevant. At the heart of The Monkees' innovation is their unique creation process, which blurred the lines between performer and producer. Initially assembled for a TV show, they later gained creative control over their music, pushing back against the conventions of the music industry. This shift allowed them to explore various styles and themes, marking them as early advocates for artistic freedom within a commercial framework. Their approach set a precedent for future artists seeking to reclaim agency over their creative output. Lyrically, The Monkees often delve into themes of escapism, love, and youthful rebellion, balancing sincerity with a playful irony that reflects the complexities of their era. Their songwriting tends to favor catchy melodies paired with narratively driven lyrics that draw listeners into relatable scenarios. This combination evokes both nostalgia and contemplation, allowing audiences to engage on multiple emotional levels.

27 studio albums· 65 total releases· 5 decades· United States