The Meaning Behind The Song: Words by The Monkees
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Words | The Monkees | Bobby Hart & Tommy Boyce | Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd. (1967) | November 6, 1967 | Pop | Chip Douglas |
This break-up song was a change from The Monkees’ typically upbeat, bubblegum pop music, but the band had to fight with their management to get it released. The group wanted a more mature sound and to be taken seriously, and the choice to release the song paid off – the song reached #11 on the Billboard Top 100.
The song “Words” by The Monkees was written by Bobby Hart and Tommy Boyce, the songwriting duo responsible for several of The Monkees’ hits. The lyrics express the pain and struggle of a failed relationship, with the protagonist finding it difficult to move on.
As the lyrics go, “Girl, don’t you know everytime I see you smilin’?
Hurts so bad ’cause when I see you, I start trying
I’ve tried everything to stop, but there’s no denying
Falling in love with you girl is just like dying”
These lines paint a picture of someone who is deeply in love but is hurting because the person they love doesn’t feel the same way. The protagonist acknowledges that the love they have for this person is consuming them, to the point where it feels like dying.
The chorus of the song captures the essence of the lyrics, speaking of words that were never true, spoken to help nobody but the person they were directed at. The use of lies that are small enough to hide emphasizes the deceptive nature of the relationship.
Personally, this song holds a special place in my heart because it resonated with me during a difficult period of my life. I was going through a break-up and feeling lost and heartbroken. The raw emotions conveyed through the lyrics and the soulful delivery by The Monkees brought me comfort in knowing that I wasn’t alone in my pain.
It’s interesting to note that The Monkees had to fight for the release of this song because it deviated from their usual style. This shows their growth as musicians and their desire to be taken seriously as artists. “Words” represented a departure from their manufactured image and demonstrated their ability to express deeper emotions through their music.
The song’s success on the charts further solidified The Monkees’ talent and paved the way for more mature and introspective songs in their discography.
Credits
- Produced By Chip Douglas
- Percussion By Davy Jones & Michael Nesmith
- Drums By Eddie Hoh
- Bass By Chip Douglas
- Electric Guitar by Michael Nesmith
- Hammond Organ By Peter Tork
- Backing Vocals By Michael Nesmith & Chip Douglas
- Lead Vocals By Micky Dolenz & Peter Tork
Release Date: November 6, 1967
In conclusion, “Words” by The Monkees is a powerful song that delves into the emotions of heartbreak and failed relationships. With its meaningful lyrics and heartfelt delivery, the song resonates with listeners and showcases The Monkees’ growth as musicians. It’s a testament to their ability to handle more mature and introspective themes, ultimately solidifying their place in the music industry.
