Neil Armstrong had just taken his “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” Woodstock rocked a New York farm, but for me, nothing compared to seeing my idols on stage. I was 15, dizzy with Davy’s voice in my head, and terribly in love with all things: The Monkees. I can’t help but reminisce a bit after reading that my former first loves are touring again, minus the recently deceased Davy Jones.
Tripping Down Memory Lane
At the ripe young age of nine, I began to work full time during the summer and part time during the school months. As a result, I didn’t have a great deal in common with others at my age. After all, no one in my neighborhood worked at my age. Label me socially awkward, the wallflower, the one no one noticed.
However, all that changed as I entered junior high. Just as Justin Bieber and Katy Perry are pulling heartstrings of the young today, The Monkees were “Fab”. No one my age, or at least no one I knew, missed their weekly television show. It was guaranteed to be the topic of conversation the next day at school. Finally, I found common ground on which to relate and talk to those around me–saved by monkeys.
Lucky for me, and my closest Monkee loving best buds, The Monkees came to our State Fair. Luckier still, my over-protective mother allowed me to go. I had never experienced the rush of emotions I felt when those four came out to greet the crowd. I nearly fainted. Of course, I jumped up and down crying — completely expected for an infatuated little girl. During the concert, I screamed so much I barely recognized my voice the next day. It was a concert of screaming their names, professing our love, and singing every song by heart as the four performed. It was the best day of my young life.
Touring Today
Perhaps I’m not the only one with those sentiments. The Hollywood Reporter reports ticket sales are robust, selling out in one day for the East Coast. It’s probably not too surprising taking into account that Michael Nesmith finally signed-on after shunning touring with his past pals since 1997. With all of this buzz and cash flowing into ticket sales, it appears that The Monkees just might be “Fab” once more.
Reflecting
So, here I am, well over 50 and reading about my former heartthrobs performing here in California — my home — without Davy. The thought of seeing them again, minus Davy or not, makes me a bit sad. I had that perfect moment 43 years ago. That emotion isn’t something that can be recreated. After all, I think I would break if I jumped up and down. I’ll probably just sit this one out. Maybe, maybe not. But, it appears many my age will be there–screaming their names, singing the songs… .
Tour dates
- November 9 – Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, California
- November 10 – Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, California
- November 11 – Flint Center for the Performing Arts in Cupertino, California
- November 15 – State Theatre in Minneapolis
- November 16 – The Chicago Theatre in Chicago
- November 17 – Lakewood Civic Auditorium in Cleveland
- November 18 – The Center for the Arts in Buffalo New York
- November 29 – Keswick Theatre – Philadelphia
- November 30 – State Theatre Regional Arts Center in New Brunswick NJ
- December 1 – The Paramount in Huntington New York
- December 2 – The Beacon Theatre in New York City
