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Hey, Hey, He’s 60 Years a Monkee
Micky Dolenz celebrates this milestone with music
IN 1966, he was cast in a made-for-TV band that went on to top the pop charts. Today, Micky Dolenz is the last surviving member of the Monkees, following the deaths of Davy Jones in 2012, Peter Tork in 2019 and Mike Nesmith in 2021. In celebration of the Monkees’ 60th anniversary, Dolenz is on tour, singing the band’s hits—including “I’m a Believer” and “Last Train to Clarksville”—in a show that incorporates footage of his late bandmates from live performances. We caught up with Dolenz, 81, from his home in Los Angeles.
➔ How does it feel to be the last one standing, so to speak?
I do feel a little melancholy sometimes. But it’s almost like they never left because [in the show] there’s so much video and so many songs that David or Peter or Mike sang. So in a way, it’s like they’re still there.
➔ What were the roles of each member of the Monkees?
Mike always was the pragmatic and practical one. I was the wacky drummer, bouncing off the walls. Davy was just so cute. Peter is the one who had to play a part. He played the dummy, and he was not like that at all. Peter was incredibly well educated, eloquent and intelligent.
➔ You’ve been touring for decades. What’s your routine like when you’re not on the road?
I have a little mini-gym here at home. I have discovered that consistency is the most important thing, especially at my age. Going to the gym every day for a little bit is infinitely better than knocking yourself out once a month. I injured my knee two weeks ago, got a little aggressive on a leg press. I’ve got to just keep reminding myself I’m not 80 anymore. —Gayle Jo Carter
MEMBERS ONLY
Visit aarp.org/micky to watch a video interview with Micky Dolenz.