The Monkees were created in 1966 by American television producers inspired to make a TV show about a band after watching The Beatles 1964 film “A Hard Day’s Night“.
Many people thought that The Beatles would dislike their made-for TV rivals but they actually welcomed The Monkees when they visited England and were big fans of the show. The Beatles along with manager Brian Epstein even hosted a party for them during the recording sessions for “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”
John Lennon, George Harrision, Ringo Starr (back w/striped pants) and Mike Nessmith at the party.
Mike Nesmith & George Harrison
Micky Dolenz & Paul McCartney
Mike Nesmith was even in attendance for some of The Beatles “A Day In The Life‘ sessions where he asked Lennon:
“Do you think we’re a cheap imitation of the Beatles, your movies and your records?”
Lennon’s reply:
“I think you’re the greatest comic talents since the Marx Brothers. I’ve never missed one of your programs.”
Here’s a photo of Nesmith with Lennon at the Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band session of “A Day In The Life“…
Mike Nesmith & John Lennon
Meanwhile Harrison said of The Monkees self-produced songs:
“It’s obvious what’s happening, there’s talent there… when they get it all sorted out, they might turn out to be the best.”
Harrison even invited Tork to play a banjo on his “Wonderwall Music” soundtrack.
Peter Tork & George Harrison
In 1995, Ringo Starr even did this tounge in cheek commercial with The Monkees for Pizza Hut where he proclaims The Monkees are, “The Wrong Lads”…
So cool- I never realized the two met up before! I love your website-so many fun and random stories I realize I have to know- addictive, but in the best way!
Mike and George were the quiet ones
Davey and Paul were the cute ones
Micky and Ringo were thwe funny ones
What does that make John and Peter?
John and Peter were the really smart ones.