Larian Studios set the bar high with Baldur’s Gate 3 in every possible way. The game, which swept awards in 2023, received a lot of critical acclaim. One of the biggest factors that set the game apart from the rest of the games out there is its approach and philosophy.
Baldur’s Gate 3
An ex-Bethesda designer recently spilled the beans on Bethesda’s ideology behind making games and the difference in design philosophy between games like Fallout and The Elder Scrolls, and Baldur’s Gate 3.
What makes Bethesda games superior?
In an interview with MinnMax, ex-Bethesda designer Bruce Nesmith, who was the lead designer behind Skyrim, revealed that Bethesda games are built differently compared to others. The choices and consequences are often limited in scope. The side quests are almost always played in isolation from the main quest. This allows them to be experienced by as many players as possible.
Baldur’s Gate 3
An ex-Bethesda designer recently spilled the beans on Bethesda’s ideology behind making games and the difference in design philosophy between games like Fallout and The Elder Scrolls, and Baldur’s Gate 3.
What makes Bethesda games superior?
In an interview with MinnMax, ex-Bethesda designer Bruce Nesmith, who was the lead designer behind Skyrim, revealed that Bethesda games are built differently compared to others. The choices and consequences are often limited in scope. The side quests are almost always played in isolation from the main quest. This allows them to be experienced by as many players as possible.
- 4/25/2024
- by Amarylisa Gonsalves
- FandomWire
After 6 years in development, Baldur’s Gate 3 launched last year to overwhelming critical acclaim. The D&d tabletop game swept RPG fans clean off their feet, with an expansive experience you could easily sink hundreds of hours into.
The astounding array of choice that BG3 offers (a crucial ingredient for RPGs) is unparalleled, and will no doubt have raised eyebrows from established RPG experts such as Bethesda, with one former developer admitting how Larian’s Goty winner beats out The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
Baldur’s Gate 3 Wins Thanks To Its Emphasis On Choice
Your choices completely determine how Baldur’s Gate 3 goes. Credit: Larian
In an interview with MinnMax, former Bethesda designer Bruce Nesmith praised Baldur’s Gate 3 for evoking the feeling of playing a tabletop RPG in an expertly produced Aaa title:
I think [Baldur’s Gate 3] is a triumph of trying to make the tabletop experience actually happen right there in the computer.
The astounding array of choice that BG3 offers (a crucial ingredient for RPGs) is unparalleled, and will no doubt have raised eyebrows from established RPG experts such as Bethesda, with one former developer admitting how Larian’s Goty winner beats out The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
Baldur’s Gate 3 Wins Thanks To Its Emphasis On Choice
Your choices completely determine how Baldur’s Gate 3 goes. Credit: Larian
In an interview with MinnMax, former Bethesda designer Bruce Nesmith praised Baldur’s Gate 3 for evoking the feeling of playing a tabletop RPG in an expertly produced Aaa title:
I think [Baldur’s Gate 3] is a triumph of trying to make the tabletop experience actually happen right there in the computer.
- 4/9/2024
- by Viraaj Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
Now that Starfield has been released, Bethesda fans around the globe grow restless for news about the next chapter in the beloved Elder Scrolls saga: The Elder Scrolls 6.
It’s been nearly 6 years since the RPG was first announced with a vague title trailer at E3 2018, but now that Bethesda is actively working on it, we can expect occasional leaks for TES6 over the next few years, with former employee Bruce Nesmith being one of the first to offer some tantalizing hints.
Magic May Be A Focus For Elder Scrolls 6 We haven’t really been given much to go on regarding The Elder Scrolls 6 thus far. Credit: Bethesda
In a YouTube interview with MinnMax, Nesmith, who played a major role in shaping The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim‘s world, suggests that The Elder Scrolls 6 might borrow and “further develop” features from past Bethesda games, possibly going all the way back...
It’s been nearly 6 years since the RPG was first announced with a vague title trailer at E3 2018, but now that Bethesda is actively working on it, we can expect occasional leaks for TES6 over the next few years, with former employee Bruce Nesmith being one of the first to offer some tantalizing hints.
Magic May Be A Focus For Elder Scrolls 6 We haven’t really been given much to go on regarding The Elder Scrolls 6 thus far. Credit: Bethesda
In a YouTube interview with MinnMax, Nesmith, who played a major role in shaping The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim‘s world, suggests that The Elder Scrolls 6 might borrow and “further develop” features from past Bethesda games, possibly going all the way back...
- 4/7/2024
- by Viraaj Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
Once edited, specific episodes of The Monkees ran shorter than their allotted time. Therefore, producers would film interviews with their cast to fill the void. In one installment, Mike Nesmith called himself a “loser” before succeeding as a television star. He predicted that if success didn’t come, he would have ended up “in jail or dead.”
Mike Nesmith called himself ‘a loser’ before finding success on ‘The Monkees’
Alongside Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork, Mike Nesmith found success beyond his wildest dreams as a cast member of The Monkees series. However, before success hit, he had a bleak outlook on his chance for success.
Nesmith sat down for an interview to fill time for one of the series’ episodes that ran short. He made a shocking admission about what others thought of him before finding fame.
The producer asked, “Since the show’s been on for a few weeks,...
Mike Nesmith called himself ‘a loser’ before finding success on ‘The Monkees’
Alongside Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork, Mike Nesmith found success beyond his wildest dreams as a cast member of The Monkees series. However, before success hit, he had a bleak outlook on his chance for success.
Nesmith sat down for an interview to fill time for one of the series’ episodes that ran short. He made a shocking admission about what others thought of him before finding fame.
The producer asked, “Since the show’s been on for a few weeks,...
- 1/19/2024
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For my money, the Monkees are way, way more interesting than the Beatles.
According to Andrew Sandoval's thorough and invaluable book "The Monkees: The Day-By-Day Story of the '60s TV Pop Sensation," an ad was put in Variety and the Hollywood Reporter on September 8, 1965, looking for "four insane boys" to be the members of a new pre-fabricated pop band. The band would also star in a TV series -- deliberately meant to evoke Richard Lester's 1964 Beatles film "A Hard Day's Night" -- that would use their real names, but present their lives as a fictional merry-go-round of kooky shenanigans.
The producers zeroed in on former child actor Micky Dolenz, a friend of musician Stephen Stills named Peter Tork, a British, boyish heartthrob named Davy Jones, and heir to the Liquid Paper fortune, Mike Nesmith. Their TV series debuted on September 12, 1966, the week after "Star Trek" debuted, and...
According to Andrew Sandoval's thorough and invaluable book "The Monkees: The Day-By-Day Story of the '60s TV Pop Sensation," an ad was put in Variety and the Hollywood Reporter on September 8, 1965, looking for "four insane boys" to be the members of a new pre-fabricated pop band. The band would also star in a TV series -- deliberately meant to evoke Richard Lester's 1964 Beatles film "A Hard Day's Night" -- that would use their real names, but present their lives as a fictional merry-go-round of kooky shenanigans.
The producers zeroed in on former child actor Micky Dolenz, a friend of musician Stephen Stills named Peter Tork, a British, boyish heartthrob named Davy Jones, and heir to the Liquid Paper fortune, Mike Nesmith. Their TV series debuted on September 12, 1966, the week after "Star Trek" debuted, and...
- 12/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Rolling Stone interview series Unknown Legends features long-form conversations between senior writer Andy Greene and veteran musicians who have toured and recorded alongside icons for years, if not decades. All are renowned in the business, but some are less well known to the general public. Here, these artists tell their complete stories, giving an up-close look at life on music’s A list. This edition features guitarist Christian Nesmith.
Christian Nesmith can’t even count the number of times he’s walked offstage, bursting with pride and adrenaline after playing an amazing concert,...
Christian Nesmith can’t even count the number of times he’s walked offstage, bursting with pride and adrenaline after playing an amazing concert,...
- 11/19/2023
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
Micky Dolenz — the sole surviving member of The Monkees — has announced a new EP of R.E.M. covers. Aptly titled Dolenz Sings R.E.M, it’s out on November 3rd. In anticipation, Dolenz has shared the lead single: his version of “Shiny Happy People.” Stream the song below.
In addition to “Shiny Happy People,” the four-song EP will feature Dolenz’s renditions of “Radio Free Europe,” “Man on the Moon,” and “Leaving New York.” The project will be released via 7A Records, and will be available on special yellow vinyl. Pre-orders are ongoing.
As revealed in a new interview with Rolling Stone, the multi-generational mash-up was the result of a conversation Dolenz had with 7A Records co-owner Glenn Gretlund. “I was talking to Glenn about what to do next,” Dolenz explained. “The band R.E.M. came up. I went, ‘Wow, that’s very cool.’ I’m a big fan… And I...
In addition to “Shiny Happy People,” the four-song EP will feature Dolenz’s renditions of “Radio Free Europe,” “Man on the Moon,” and “Leaving New York.” The project will be released via 7A Records, and will be available on special yellow vinyl. Pre-orders are ongoing.
As revealed in a new interview with Rolling Stone, the multi-generational mash-up was the result of a conversation Dolenz had with 7A Records co-owner Glenn Gretlund. “I was talking to Glenn about what to do next,” Dolenz explained. “The band R.E.M. came up. I went, ‘Wow, that’s very cool.’ I’m a big fan… And I...
- 9/13/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Music
The very first episode of The Monkees, “Royal Flush,” won the series‘ director an Emmy Award in 1967. The Monkees‘ creators, Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider won their own golden statuettes in the Best Comedy Series category that same legendary evening.
Davy Jones is seated on the sand in front of fellow ‘The Monkees’ co-stars Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Micky Dolenz in ‘Royal Flush’ | Keystone Features/Getty Images The first episode of ‘The Monkees’ was ‘Royal Flush’
The Monkees episodes may not have been the first to feature slapstick on television. However, the series was one of the first to include music shorts within each 30-minute episode.
Viewers were treated to a new music montage each week, driving The Monkees‘ record sales to number one on the Billboard Charts. However, the series also found a home with viewers who enjoyed its light humor.
In the series very first episode, “Royal Flush,...
Davy Jones is seated on the sand in front of fellow ‘The Monkees’ co-stars Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Micky Dolenz in ‘Royal Flush’ | Keystone Features/Getty Images The first episode of ‘The Monkees’ was ‘Royal Flush’
The Monkees episodes may not have been the first to feature slapstick on television. However, the series was one of the first to include music shorts within each 30-minute episode.
Viewers were treated to a new music montage each week, driving The Monkees‘ record sales to number one on the Billboard Charts. However, the series also found a home with viewers who enjoyed its light humor.
In the series very first episode, “Royal Flush,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees Peter Tork achieved many bucket list moments as a member of the iconic 1960s pop rock band. However, one of his most significant early achievements as a Monkees member involved getting “the crew to dance” during an on-set jam session with Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, and Davy Jones.
The Monkees members included Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Peter Tork admitted The Monkees ‘never rehearsed’ before getting the TV ‘crew to dance’
In 1982, Peter Tork appeared on Late Night with David Letterman. He discussed his career and the impact being a member of The Monkees had on his life.
During one key interview moment, Tork discussed what he said was the quartet’s lack of rehearsal before filming the first episode. However, that didn’t stop Tork, Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, and Davy Jones from watching one unforgettable moment unfold before their eyes.
The Monkees members included Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Peter Tork admitted The Monkees ‘never rehearsed’ before getting the TV ‘crew to dance’
In 1982, Peter Tork appeared on Late Night with David Letterman. He discussed his career and the impact being a member of The Monkees had on his life.
During one key interview moment, Tork discussed what he said was the quartet’s lack of rehearsal before filming the first episode. However, that didn’t stop Tork, Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, and Davy Jones from watching one unforgettable moment unfold before their eyes.
- 6/9/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Despite starring in The Monkees‘ first and only feature film, Head, in 1968, Peter Tork still didn’t understand its premise. He admits he had to watch the edgy movie upwards of 80 times before he realized what bothered him about it.
Peter Tork in a photoshoot while on the set of The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Peter Tork admits it took almost 80 viewings of ‘Head’ before he got it
The 1968 film Head was a watershed moment in The Monkees’ career. The film depicted a series of vignettes amounting to a loosely interpretive message by the band signaling the end of their pop star personas.
The film included scenes of Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones chanting, “Hey hey, we are the Monkees, you know we like to please/A manufactured image, with no philosophies” over a series of TV screens playing first clips from the film.
Peter Tork in a photoshoot while on the set of The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Peter Tork admits it took almost 80 viewings of ‘Head’ before he got it
The 1968 film Head was a watershed moment in The Monkees’ career. The film depicted a series of vignettes amounting to a loosely interpretive message by the band signaling the end of their pop star personas.
The film included scenes of Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones chanting, “Hey hey, we are the Monkees, you know we like to please/A manufactured image, with no philosophies” over a series of TV screens playing first clips from the film.
- 6/6/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees are best known for pop-rock and tunes typical of the mid to late 1960s. However, in rare interview footage, Micky Dolenz admitted that the sound fans knew and loved was a mashup of different styles the band’s members loved. He claimed there never was a “group sound.”
The Monkees members photographed on the set of their television show included Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork | Bettmann/Getty Images Micky Dolenz once claimed there was never a ‘group sound’ of The Monkees
Micky Dolenz shared his opinion regarding The Monkees’ music in a rare 1968 interview with Monkees bandmates Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork for the Hy Lit Show. He claimed the band never had a “group sound.”
At the clip’s 3:10 mark, Dolenz discussed the band’s music and their first and only feature film, Head. He and his fellow bandmates shared...
The Monkees members photographed on the set of their television show included Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork | Bettmann/Getty Images Micky Dolenz once claimed there was never a ‘group sound’ of The Monkees
Micky Dolenz shared his opinion regarding The Monkees’ music in a rare 1968 interview with Monkees bandmates Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork for the Hy Lit Show. He claimed the band never had a “group sound.”
At the clip’s 3:10 mark, Dolenz discussed the band’s music and their first and only feature film, Head. He and his fellow bandmates shared...
- 6/6/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mike Nesmith always had a soft spot for The Monkees‘ only feature film, Head. The 1968 film was misunderstood by many critics and fans of the band who were used to the casual hijinks of the quartet’s NBC series. However, Nesmith discussed how the film had a hidden meaning missed by many. He claimed the film poked “a lot of fun at The Monkees’ expense.”
The Monkees in a scene from the feature film ‘Head’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith shared in a rare interview the intentions of the movie ‘Head’
Mike Nesmith shared the purposes of the group’s first feature film in a rare interview with Monkees bandmates Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork for the Hy Lit Show. Head, he explained, poked “a lot of fun” at the expense of its stars.
“The most fun was the character assassination,” Nesmith said of the darker...
The Monkees in a scene from the feature film ‘Head’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith shared in a rare interview the intentions of the movie ‘Head’
Mike Nesmith shared the purposes of the group’s first feature film in a rare interview with Monkees bandmates Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Peter Tork for the Hy Lit Show. Head, he explained, poked “a lot of fun” at the expense of its stars.
“The most fun was the character assassination,” Nesmith said of the darker...
- 6/1/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Along with being a member of The Monkees, Mike Nesmith was a stellar songwriter. His composition “Different Drum” became a hit for The Greenbriar Boys and The Stone Poneys. However, his own recorded version included a verse that ultimately changed the meaning of the entire song. Here are all the details.
Linda Ronstadt and Mike Nesmith in side-by-side photographs taken in the 1960s | Bettmann/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith’s extra verse changed the overall intent of Linda Ronstadt’s version of ‘Different Drum’
Nesmith started writing and performing music in the early 1960s under the name “Michael Blessing.” He found some small success as a songwriter with a fusion of country and rock.
During that period, Nesmith wrote “Different Drum.” The song tells the story of a pair of lovers. One wants to settle down, while the other wants to retain a sense of freedom and independence.
Linda Ronstadt and Mike Nesmith in side-by-side photographs taken in the 1960s | Bettmann/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith’s extra verse changed the overall intent of Linda Ronstadt’s version of ‘Different Drum’
Nesmith started writing and performing music in the early 1960s under the name “Michael Blessing.” He found some small success as a songwriter with a fusion of country and rock.
During that period, Nesmith wrote “Different Drum.” The song tells the story of a pair of lovers. One wants to settle down, while the other wants to retain a sense of freedom and independence.
- 5/19/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees Mike Nesmith approached much of his life in a tongue-in-cheek manner. He realized that much of the his life in the entertainment business lent itself to promoting one image while, perhaps, feeling quite differently. Nesmith once said in an interview that he had a “wave and smile” approach to playing and writing music. He called the feeling similar to “flying in your dreams.”
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith photographed in London in 1970 | Michael Putland/Getty Images Mike Nesmith followed his instincts in the music business
As a songwriter and performer, Mike Nesmith generally used both his head and heart when making career decisions. This method generally worked well for the Texas native.
After leaving The Monkees in 1970, Nesmith pivoted to a genre he knew well: country music. However, the longstanding music category morphed into a genre all its own with the addition of pop melodies.
Success as a songwriter...
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith photographed in London in 1970 | Michael Putland/Getty Images Mike Nesmith followed his instincts in the music business
As a songwriter and performer, Mike Nesmith generally used both his head and heart when making career decisions. This method generally worked well for the Texas native.
After leaving The Monkees in 1970, Nesmith pivoted to a genre he knew well: country music. However, the longstanding music category morphed into a genre all its own with the addition of pop melodies.
Success as a songwriter...
- 5/12/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Peter Tork resented the idea that the member of The Monkees were disposable. He felt the band’s producers got good performers for the job although they didn’t want “professionals.” Each member of the group contributed something that made the Prefab Four a classic bubblegum band. The Monkees | Bettmann / Contributor
The Monkees weren’t always the most critically respected group. Subsequently, The Monkees’ Peter Tork said the band couldn’t have just been “any four guys.” He was right about the Prefab Four.
The Monkees’ Peter Tork felt his band’s members had ‘a certain magic’
It’s well known that The Beatles’s work, particularly their comedy films A Hard Day’s Night and Help!, were a big influence on The Monkees’ sitcom. During a 2013 interview with Guitar World, Tork discussed the connection. “The producers [of the TV show] were Beatles fans themselves,” he said. “They weren’t just old,...
Peter Tork resented the idea that the member of The Monkees were disposable. He felt the band’s producers got good performers for the job although they didn’t want “professionals.” Each member of the group contributed something that made the Prefab Four a classic bubblegum band. The Monkees | Bettmann / Contributor
The Monkees weren’t always the most critically respected group. Subsequently, The Monkees’ Peter Tork said the band couldn’t have just been “any four guys.” He was right about the Prefab Four.
The Monkees’ Peter Tork felt his band’s members had ‘a certain magic’
It’s well known that The Beatles’s work, particularly their comedy films A Hard Day’s Night and Help!, were a big influence on The Monkees’ sitcom. During a 2013 interview with Guitar World, Tork discussed the connection. “The producers [of the TV show] were Beatles fans themselves,” he said. “They weren’t just old,...
- 5/8/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Like most musicians, The Monkees Mike Nesmith felt the influence of Elvis Presley’s music as a young man. Presley made his mark on the sounds of the 1950s and early 60s and how musicians performed. However, Presley’s influence went way beyond his music for The Monkees guitarist. Nesmith and the king of rock and roll had a legendary history together without meeting.
Elvis Presley and Mike Nesmith shared a musical connection but never met | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Elvis Presley became a rock and roll superstar 12 years before The Monkees’ debut
Shortly after graduating from Humes High School in June 1953, Elvis Presley began to explore the idea of a music career. That July, he entered Sun Studios, where he cut a 45-rpm record, “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.”
One year later, in 1954, Presley, Scotty Moore, and Bill Black entered Sun Studios to record “That’s All Right Mama.
Elvis Presley and Mike Nesmith shared a musical connection but never met | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Elvis Presley became a rock and roll superstar 12 years before The Monkees’ debut
Shortly after graduating from Humes High School in June 1953, Elvis Presley began to explore the idea of a music career. That July, he entered Sun Studios, where he cut a 45-rpm record, “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin.”
One year later, in 1954, Presley, Scotty Moore, and Bill Black entered Sun Studios to record “That’s All Right Mama.
- 4/15/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
By the time The Monkees began production of their first and only feature film, Head, they had undergone a metamorphosis as both performers and a music group. Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, Davy Jones, and Micky Dolenz evolved from hired actors to pop music phenomena over the course of three years. Therefore, to depict this, the music for Head was just as pivotal as the script itself. Subsequently, Monkees producer Bob Rafelson said one song was “critical” to the soundtrack. Here are all the details.
Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, Davy Jones, and Mike Nesmith of The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images How did The Monkees get involved with ‘Head’?
The last episode of The Monkees Emmy-winning television show aired in March 1968, during its second and final filming season. Moreover, the world’s cultural climate appeared to be in upheaval. The series seemed out of step with the times.
The Monkees...
Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, Davy Jones, and Mike Nesmith of The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images How did The Monkees get involved with ‘Head’?
The last episode of The Monkees Emmy-winning television show aired in March 1968, during its second and final filming season. Moreover, the world’s cultural climate appeared to be in upheaval. The series seemed out of step with the times.
The Monkees...
- 4/5/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees were lucky enough to have prolific songwriters working behind the scenes to craft songs for their music catalog. Many came from New York’s Brill Building, where they worked for the show’s music producer, Don Kirshner. One of these songwriters was Carole King, who, along with her husband Gerry Goffin, wrote tunes on almost every Monkees album except one, perhaps the most important of the band’s career.
Carole King wrote some of The Monkees’ most beloved hits but was excluded from one album | Michael Ochs Archives/Jim McCrary/Getty Images/ The Monkees’ biggest hits came from the songwriting team of Carole King and Gerry Goffin
Don Kirshner handpicked husband and wife songwriters Carole King and Gerry Goffin to write songs for The Monkees. King’s music and Goffin’s lyrics perfectly captured the pop sensibilities of the 1960s.
Together and separately, King and Goffin wrote songs...
Carole King wrote some of The Monkees’ most beloved hits but was excluded from one album | Michael Ochs Archives/Jim McCrary/Getty Images/ The Monkees’ biggest hits came from the songwriting team of Carole King and Gerry Goffin
Don Kirshner handpicked husband and wife songwriters Carole King and Gerry Goffin to write songs for The Monkees. King’s music and Goffin’s lyrics perfectly captured the pop sensibilities of the 1960s.
Together and separately, King and Goffin wrote songs...
- 4/3/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
One of The Monkees‘ most prolific singalong hits, “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” appeared on their classic album Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn, and Jones Ltd. Written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, the song was inspired by a street near the couple’s suburban New Jersey home. However, the song’s lyrics had a darker edge than fans realized.
Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Mike Nesmith are the cast of ‘The Monkees’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images ‘Pleasant Valley Sunday’ was a Monkees smash
The single peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1967. At the number one position was Bobbie Gentry’s “Ode to Billie Joe,” followed by The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
The Monkees held steady at number three. In addition, rounding out the top five in the first week of August 1967 was The Doors’ “Light My Fire” and Aretha Franklin’s “Baby I Love You.
Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, and Mike Nesmith are the cast of ‘The Monkees’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images ‘Pleasant Valley Sunday’ was a Monkees smash
The single peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1967. At the number one position was Bobbie Gentry’s “Ode to Billie Joe,” followed by The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
The Monkees held steady at number three. In addition, rounding out the top five in the first week of August 1967 was The Doors’ “Light My Fire” and Aretha Franklin’s “Baby I Love You.
- 3/30/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees may have started their music careers as a television show band. However, the prefab four quickly morphed into one of the most beloved groups of musicians of the 1960s. Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones broke records and became radio mainstays during that decade. However, some of their best songs never made the Billboard top 10. Here are 5 Monkees songs that should have been hits.
Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Mike Nesmith cranked out dozens of hits, but some fan favorites never topped the charts | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images 1. ‘Porpoise Song’ (1968)
In the late 1960s, The Monkees were on a downturn. Their eponymous television show ended. Peter Tork was exiting the band.
However, one bright song crafted for the band appeared in their feature film Head. Written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, “Porpoise Song” is a beloved tune that occurs at the...
Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Mike Nesmith cranked out dozens of hits, but some fan favorites never topped the charts | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images 1. ‘Porpoise Song’ (1968)
In the late 1960s, The Monkees were on a downturn. Their eponymous television show ended. Peter Tork was exiting the band.
However, one bright song crafted for the band appeared in their feature film Head. Written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, “Porpoise Song” is a beloved tune that occurs at the...
- 3/29/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees‘ Mike Nesmith couldn’t make sense of his band’s success. Subsequently, he discussed what he thought about them potentially entering the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Notably, the group was a hit from the beginning.
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer Why Mike Nesmith turned down a chance to write with Carole King
Numerous famous songwriters wrote tunes for The Monkees, including Neil Diamond, Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, and Harry Nilsson. During a 2014 interview with App, Nesmith was asked if he learned anything from the work of these songwriters.
“Actually, a lot of what they did was lost on me,” he said. “I had no real understanding of the pop song — or even the pop culture — which is to say pop art. That understanding developed much later for me.”
Nesmith said King asked to write a song with him. He was intimidated...
The Monkees’ Mike Nesmith | Michael Ochs Archives / Stringer Why Mike Nesmith turned down a chance to write with Carole King
Numerous famous songwriters wrote tunes for The Monkees, including Neil Diamond, Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka, and Harry Nilsson. During a 2014 interview with App, Nesmith was asked if he learned anything from the work of these songwriters.
“Actually, a lot of what they did was lost on me,” he said. “I had no real understanding of the pop song — or even the pop culture — which is to say pop art. That understanding developed much later for me.”
Nesmith said King asked to write a song with him. He was intimidated...
- 3/28/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mike Nesmith starred alongside Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz, and Davy Jones in The Monkees television show. The zany primetime series, which ran for two seasons between 1966 and 1968, was hugely popular. However, behind the scenes, not every cast member appeared in every episode. Here are three reasons Mike Nesmith didn’t film specific episodes of The Monkees.
Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones film a scene from ‘The Monkees’ television series | Betmann/Getty Images ‘The Monkees’ series featured zany storylines
Many of the storylines filmed for The Monkees were unrealistic and zany in context. The series documented the life of a struggling rock and roll band who lived in a California beach house.
Furthermore, The Monkees always seemed to get themselves into unlikely situations. Likewise, these often included crossing paths with royalty, bad guys, and other assorted characters, which caused chaos.
In his autobiography I’m A Believer,...
Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones film a scene from ‘The Monkees’ television series | Betmann/Getty Images ‘The Monkees’ series featured zany storylines
Many of the storylines filmed for The Monkees were unrealistic and zany in context. The series documented the life of a struggling rock and roll band who lived in a California beach house.
Furthermore, The Monkees always seemed to get themselves into unlikely situations. Likewise, these often included crossing paths with royalty, bad guys, and other assorted characters, which caused chaos.
In his autobiography I’m A Believer,...
- 3/25/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees may have acted like they were happy-go-lucky band members on the set of their television series. Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, Micky Dolenz, and Davy Jones may have even acted friendly toward one another on stage during concerts. However, like with any partnership, some members don’t gel as naturally as others. Here are three ways Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork were “partners in silence” as Monkees members.
Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork on the set of ‘The Monkees’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith admits ‘Peter [Tork], and I went our own ways’
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Mike Nesmith admitted that he and Peter Tork typically “went our own ways.” He shared his take on their personal and professional relationship. Nesmith explained their estrangement was “known” on the series set.
“They knew Pete, and I went our own ways. This wasn’t a dislike of someone...
Mike Nesmith and Peter Tork on the set of ‘The Monkees’ | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Mike Nesmith admits ‘Peter [Tork], and I went our own ways’
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Mike Nesmith admitted that he and Peter Tork typically “went our own ways.” He shared his take on their personal and professional relationship. Nesmith explained their estrangement was “known” on the series set.
“They knew Pete, and I went our own ways. This wasn’t a dislike of someone...
- 3/21/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. He said the album had an impact on his life. Sgt. Pepper performed a lot better than a Monkees album released around the same time. The Beatles’ ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ | Science & Society Picture Library / Contributor
The Beatles‘ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band went head-to-head against a Monkees album and knocked it roof the top of the album chart. Subsequently, The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed what he thought about this development. He revealed his views of the incident never changed.
The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed why his band got to take control of 1 of their albums
During a 2023 interview with Rolling Stone, Dolenz discussed The Monkees’ album Headquarters. “There’s a lot of stories behind it,” he recalled. “It was the first time they sort of gave us the reins.
The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. He said the album had an impact on his life. Sgt. Pepper performed a lot better than a Monkees album released around the same time. The Beatles’ ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ | Science & Society Picture Library / Contributor
The Beatles‘ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band went head-to-head against a Monkees album and knocked it roof the top of the album chart. Subsequently, The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed what he thought about this development. He revealed his views of the incident never changed.
The Monkees’ Micky Dolenz discussed why his band got to take control of 1 of their albums
During a 2023 interview with Rolling Stone, Dolenz discussed The Monkees’ album Headquarters. “There’s a lot of stories behind it,” he recalled. “It was the first time they sort of gave us the reins.
- 3/21/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Micky Dolenz was thrust into the role of The Monkees drummer after being cast as a member of the NBC series alongside Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones. Although a proficient guitarist, Dolenz never sat behind a drum kit before the series began. Once it became successful, The Monkees were expected to play live on tour, despite never recording together. Micky Dolenz developed an arsenal of tricks to stay on beat. Here are three of them.
Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, and Peter Tork made up The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Micky Dolenz used a different setup than most drummers
Per an interview with Modern Drummer, Micky Dolenz admitted to modifying his drumset for him to keep on the beat. This switch was done to assist Dolenz after a lingering childhood health issue caused him physical discomfort.
Dolenz set up his kit in a unique way.
Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, and Peter Tork made up The Monkees | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Micky Dolenz used a different setup than most drummers
Per an interview with Modern Drummer, Micky Dolenz admitted to modifying his drumset for him to keep on the beat. This switch was done to assist Dolenz after a lingering childhood health issue caused him physical discomfort.
Dolenz set up his kit in a unique way.
- 3/18/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Monkees Mike Nesmith was lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time in Feb. 1967 when he was invited to a Beatles recording session. However, as historic as that moment was, Nesmith was even more dumbstruck at the event by the “most beautiful woman” he had ever seen, who attended on the arm of a legendary musician.
Mike Nesmith photographed in the late 1960s | Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives Mike Nesmith’s strange telegram led to a friendship with John Lennon
In his Infinite Tuesday biography, Nesmith spoke of his first meeting with Lennon and their subsequent friendship. “Before I arrived in London, I had not met John Lennon and didn’t even know how to contact him. So I thought if I could meet him, it would be a great addition to the trip,” Nesmith wrote.
Nesmith sent Lennon a telegram so it would arrive separately from other fan mail.
Mike Nesmith photographed in the late 1960s | Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives Mike Nesmith’s strange telegram led to a friendship with John Lennon
In his Infinite Tuesday biography, Nesmith spoke of his first meeting with Lennon and their subsequent friendship. “Before I arrived in London, I had not met John Lennon and didn’t even know how to contact him. So I thought if I could meet him, it would be a great addition to the trip,” Nesmith wrote.
Nesmith sent Lennon a telegram so it would arrive separately from other fan mail.
- 3/16/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Mike Nesmith was a songwriter ahead of his success with The Monkees. Therefore, he felt a kinship with other like-minded people who also found creative release in this job. He was lucky enough to work alongside some of the greatest writers in the industry for The Monkees. Carole King was one of these songwriters. However, for as much as he “loved” King, Nesmith claimed, “I just can’t stand her records.”
Mike Nesmith and Carole King collaborated on Monkees hits | Fox Photos/Jim McCrary/Redferns/Getty Images How many songs did Carole King write for The Monkees?
Carole King was one of the dozen or more songwriters enlisted to write music for The Monkees’ television series. King was among the many songwriters associated with Don Kirshner of New York’s The Brill Building.
King and her husband Gerry Goffin wrote for The Monkees. So did Tommy Boyce, Neil Diamond, Bobby Hart,...
Mike Nesmith and Carole King collaborated on Monkees hits | Fox Photos/Jim McCrary/Redferns/Getty Images How many songs did Carole King write for The Monkees?
Carole King was one of the dozen or more songwriters enlisted to write music for The Monkees’ television series. King was among the many songwriters associated with Don Kirshner of New York’s The Brill Building.
King and her husband Gerry Goffin wrote for The Monkees. So did Tommy Boyce, Neil Diamond, Bobby Hart,...
- 3/15/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Micky Dolenz is headed on the road to perform The Monkees third album Headquarters live. This watershed third Monkees LP proved the band was more than a made-for-television musical group. As the tour commences, Dolenz reflects on all that went into making the LP, what it means to play those songs live, and how The Monkees influenced an entire genre of performers.
The Monkees Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images The Monkees genuinely expressed themselves as musicians on ‘Headquarters’
Liner notes on the back of the Headquarters LP expressed The Monkees intent with their third LP. “We aren’t the only musicians on this album,” an inscription on the back cover reads. “The occasional extra bass or horn player played under our direction, so this is all ours.”
Headquarters changed The Monkees’ trajectory as musicians. In The Monkees and More of The Monkees,...
The Monkees Mike Nesmith, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, and Peter Tork | Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images The Monkees genuinely expressed themselves as musicians on ‘Headquarters’
Liner notes on the back of the Headquarters LP expressed The Monkees intent with their third LP. “We aren’t the only musicians on this album,” an inscription on the back cover reads. “The occasional extra bass or horn player played under our direction, so this is all ours.”
Headquarters changed The Monkees’ trajectory as musicians. In The Monkees and More of The Monkees,...
- 3/14/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Nesmith, a member of the 1960s-era music group The Monkees and star of the sitcom of the same name, died Friday, our sister site Rolling Stone reports. He was 78.
“I’m heartbroken,” onetime bandmate Micky Dolenz shared on Twitter. “I’ve lost a dear friend and partner. I’m so grateful that we could spend the last couple of months together doing what we loved best – singing, laughing, and doing shtick. I’ll miss it all so much. Especially the shtick. Rest in peace, Nez.”
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“I’m heartbroken,” onetime bandmate Micky Dolenz shared on Twitter. “I’ve lost a dear friend and partner. I’m so grateful that we could spend the last couple of months together doing what we loved best – singing, laughing, and doing shtick. I’ll miss it all so much. Especially the shtick. Rest in peace, Nez.”
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- 12/10/2021
- by Kimberly Roots
- TVLine.com
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