Title: The Story Behind The Monkees’ Goin’ Down
Introduction
The Monkees is a band that gained immense popularity during the 1960s, thanks to their upbeat and catchy tunes, unforgettable performances, and charismatic personas. Among the band’s many hit songs, one that stands out is “Goin’ Down”. This tune is a fan-favorite and has been covered by countless artists over the years. But what is the story behind this classic hit? In this article, we’ll be looking at the meaning behind The Monkees’ “Goin’ Down”.
History of the Band
Before delving into the meaning behind the song, let’s take a quick look at the history of the band. The Monkees was created in 1965 by Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider. The duo was looking to create a TV show about a rock n’ roll band, and they held auditions to find the perfect cast. They eventually settled on four talented musicians: Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Michael Nesmith. The show was an instant hit, and the band members became heartthrobs across the country.
The Inspiration Behind “Goin’ Down”
“Goin’ Down” was written by all four members of the band and was released in 1967. The song is an up-tempo, rock n’ roll tune that features a catchy riff and memorable lyrics. But what inspired the band to write this song?
According to Micky Dolenz, “Goin’ Down” was originally written about a racing car driver who crashes and dies in the race. The band members later changed the lyrics to be about a guy who is “going down” because he’s lost his girl. However, some people believe that the song is actually about drug use, primarily because of the line “Ain’t no fire in the pan”.
The Lyrics of “Goin’ Down”
Let’s take a closer look at the lyrics of “Goin’ Down”. The first line of the song says, “I’m going down, and my head’s in a spin”. This line sets the tone for the whole song, which is about a guy who’s lost his girl and is struggling to cope. The chorus is perhaps the most memorable part of the song, with its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics:
“Goin’ down,
Goin’ down,
[Gonna] take everybody with me when I go.”This line is a perfect example of the Monkees’ upbeat and energetic style, even when singing about a downer subject.
The Legacy of “Goin’ Down”
Over the years, “Goin’ Down” has become a fan-favorite and is often included in the band’s live performances. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including The Who and Pearl Jam. In 1995, The Monkees recorded a new version of the song for their album “Justus”.
Many people consider “Goin’ Down” to be a classic rock n’ roll tune and an excellent representation of the Monkees’ music. The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics make it an instant classic that still resonates with fans decades later.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Goin’ Down” is a classic Monkees tune that has stood the test of time. The song is about a guy who’s lost his girl and is struggling to cope with the loss. Its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics have made it a fan-favorite and a classic rock n’ roll tune. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of The Monkees or a casual listener, “Goin’ Down” is a song that you’ll likely find yourself singing along to.
