The Monkees Albums in Order: Embarking from a fictional band for a TV show to becoming a musical sensation, The Monkees swiftly transcended their scripted origins to become one of the most impactful pop rock bands of the 1960s.
The Monkees, an iconic American pop rock band originating from Los Angeles in the mid-1960s, were not just a musical sensation but a cultural phenomenon spurred by their eponymous television show. Comprised of members Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, they rose to prominence with international chart-topping hits, including “Last Train to Clarksville,” “I’m a Believer,” and “Daydream Believer,” ultimately selling a staggering 75 million records worldwide.
Initially conceived as a fictional band for the NBC sitcom bearing their name, the Monkees swiftly became a real musical force, albeit with a contentious beginning as their musical contributions were limited. However, a power shift in 1967 granted them full control over their recordings, leading to a brief era where they performed more cohesively as a group before diverging into individual pursuits under the Monkees’ banner. Controversies surrounding their instrumental prowess, coupled with declining success, marked the band’s eventual dissolution in 1970.
Despite this, a resurgence of interest in 1986 sparked a 20th-anniversary reunion, leading to intermittent reunions and projects that, following the passings of Jones and Tork, culminated in a farewell tour by Dolenz and Nesmith in 2021, ending just before Nesmith’s untimely demise at the close of the year, marking the end of an era for the legendary Monkees. So, if you are a die heart fan of The Monkees Albums then check out here we have list of The Monkees albums in order of release so far.
All The Monkees Albums Available on: Apple Music
The discography of The Monkees were an American pop rock band have released 13 studio albums, 8 live albums, 31 compilation album, and 24 singles.
Here is the list of The Monkees Album in Order of Release Date
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The Monkees’ eponymous debut album, released in 1966, soared to immediate success, clinching the number one spot on the Billboard 200 for an impressive 13 weeks. It marked the start of four consecutive chart-topping albums in the US and also claimed the UK charts in 1967. Bolstered by the hit single “Last Train to Clarksville,” the album earned quintuple platinum status from the RIAA, selling over five million copies. Notably, while “Last Train to Clarksville” dominated the Billboard Hot 100, it stood as the sole hit single from this album, although “I’ll Be True to You” had previously been released by the Hollies in 1965 as “Yes I Will.”
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“More of the Monkees,” the Monkees’ second studio album, debuted in January 1967, swiftly claiming the top spot on the Billboard 200 for an astonishing 18 weeks, surpassing their debut album’s success. This record-setting run contributed to the combined reign of their first two albums atop the Billboard chart for an unprecedented 31 consecutive weeks. Notably, it became the first pop/rock album to be the year’s best-seller in the U.S. Additionally, achieving quintuple platinum status, with over five million copies sold, solidified its monumental impact, also reaching No.1 in the UK—a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural significance.
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“Headquarters,” the Monkees’ third studio album, debuted in May 1967 following their inaugural TV season. Signaling a pivotal shift, it marked the band’s autonomy in songwriting and instrumentation, diverging from reliance on session musicians. Despite label struggles, it soared to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, achieving double platinum status in the US within two months, also hitting No. 2 in the UK. This album showcases their creative evolution, highlighted in “1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die,” as a testament to their groundbreaking contributions within the musical landscape of the time.
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“Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd.” marked a pivotal shift for The Monkees in 1967. Released on November 6, it showcased the band’s growing control over their music, allowing them to perform instruments, a departure from previous constraints. Despite newfound artistic freedom, they incorporated more outside contributions and session musicians, diverging from their prior self-contained album “Headquarters.” Notably, the album featured pioneering Moog synthesizer use in popular music. Achieving over three million sales, it continued their streak, securing the band’s fourth consecutive No. 1 spot on the U.S. Billboard 200, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking yet collaborative musical endeavor.
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“The Birds, the Bees & the Monkees,” the Monkees’ fifth studio album post their TV show’s cancellation, debuted in April 1968. Despite marking their first album post-show, it reached No. 3 on the U.S. charts, a deviation from their previous four albums which all claimed top ten spots. Surprisingly, it missed the UK charts entirely. Despite this, the album achieved sales exceeding a million copies, underscoring its enduring popularity despite chart variations across regions.
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“Head,” the Monkees’ sixth studio album and companion to their film, emerged in 1968, featuring primarily musique concrète pieces composed from the movie’s dialogue. The album’s six fresh tracks span diverse genres, from psychedelic and acid rock to lo-fi and Broadway theatre influences. This experimental venture showcased a departure from their earlier pop sound, diving into unconventional sonic realms through a blend of dialogue-driven compositions and an eclectic mix of musical styles.
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“Instant Replay,” the Monkees’ seventh studio album, emerged 11 months post their NBC series’ cancellation, marking the departure of Peter Tork. It stands unique among their original nine albums, devoid of tracks from the TV show. Released in 1969, it signifies a transitional phase for the band, navigating uncharted musical territories following Tork’s exit. Absent the familiar TV show tunes, this album heralds the group’s evolution, showcasing their versatility and willingness to explore new sonic landscapes, despite the absence of foundational hits from their small screen success.
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“The Monkees Present,” the eighth album by The Monkees, emerged post Peter Tork’s departure, marking their musical evolution. Released after Tork’s exit, it’s the final album with Michael Nesmith until “Justus” in ’96. Named “The Monkees Present Micky, David, Michael,” it reflects the band’s transition. The departure of Tork ushered changes, yet the album encapsulates the Monkees’ versatility despite the lineup shift, offering a blend of their distinctive sound. This release serves as a poignant reminder of the Monkees’ adaptability during lineup changes, showcasing their enduring musical prowess in an era of transition.
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“Changes,” the ninth studio album by The Monkees, surfaced following Michael Nesmith’s departure, leaving Micky Dolenz and Davy Jones to honor a longstanding recording contract. This marked their final album under Colgems Records and the last offering of original material until 1987’s “Pool It!” Nesmith’s exit reshaped the band dynamic, spotlighting Dolenz and Jones in a transitional phase before their later reunion, culminating in a significant hiatus from releasing fresh content.
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“Pool It!” marks the Monkees’ tenth studio album, released in August 1987 via Rhino Records. Significantly, it served as their first album of fresh material since 1970’s “Changes” and notably featured Peter Tork, absent since the 1968 “Head” soundtrack. This comeback album, showcasing a contemporary pop-rock sound, reflected their enduring relevance and evolution, reuniting members after a prolonged hiatus and reaffirming their musical prowess in a changed landscape.
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“Justus,” the Monkees’ eleventh studio album, commemorated their 30th anniversary, released on October 15, 1996. This album marked Michael Nesmith’s return to the group, a significant reunion for the band. Notably, “Justus” showcased the band members’ full creative control, with each contributing to writing, singing, and playing instruments on the tracks—a departure from their earlier dynamics. The album highlighted their evolved musical prowess and camaraderie, offering fans a glimpse into the Monkees’ enduring legacy and their ability to adapt while staying true to their roots.
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“Good Times!” stands as the Monkees’ 12th studio album, produced mainly by Adam Schlesinger, commemorating their 50th anniversary. Released after the longest hiatus since “Justus” (1996) and the loss of Davy Jones, it notably features Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, with Jones contributing posthumously. Garnering positive reviews, it surged to number 14 on the Billboard 200, marking the band’s highest charting album in nearly five decades. This revival showcased the enduring appeal of the Monkees and reaffirmed their legacy in the pop rock genre.
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“Christmas Party,” The Monkees’ 13th and final album, emerged on October 12, 2018, under Adam Schlesinger’s mainly helm, with Michael Nesmith’s tracks overseen by his sons. Marking their first festive focus, it builds on the triumph of their 2016 release, “Good Times!” Featuring Micky Dolenz, Mike Nesmith, and Peter Tork, alongside posthumous contributions by Davy Jones, it precedes Tork and Nesmith’s passings in 2019 and 2021. The album blends covers of classic Christmas tunes with original tracks from contributors like Andy Partridge and Rivers Cuomo. Notably, it’s the sole Monkees record devoid of their own compositions, and the Target exclusive includes vintage gems remastered by original producer Chip Douglas.
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