We Rank The 5 Best Songs From The Monkees’ ‘Headquarters’

In 1967, the Monkees took control of their music destiny with their third album, “Headquarters.” Breaking away from their image as the “Prefab Four,” the group asserted their creative talents, writing their own songs and playing their own instruments. The result was a remarkable album that blended folk and psychedelic-rock influences while retaining their signature pop charm. As we celebrate the 55th anniversary of this landmark record, let’s explore the five best tracks that made “Headquarters” a chart-topping success.

1. “You Told Me”

The opening track of “Headquarters,” penned and sung by Mike Nesmith, sets the tone for the album. With a kaleidoscopic feel reminiscent of the Beatles’ “Revolver,” the song takes listeners on a captivating journey. The banjo-infused underpinning adds a unique touch, drawing the audience in with the promise of something special about to unfold.

2. “Shades of Gray”

This wistful mid-tempo ballad, sung by both Davy Jones and Peter Tork, evokes a sense of calm and melancholy. The lyrics contemplate the fleeting nature of innocence and the complexities of discerning truth and love. The music’s orchestration, featuring cello and French horn, perfectly complements the sentiment, while Nesmith’s steel guitar adds subtle color to the heartfelt piece.

3. “You Just May Be the One”

Mike Nesmith’s brilliance shines through in this track, which conveys a simple yet profound message about loyalty and understanding in relationships. The jangly, Byrds-inspired guitars drive home the sentiment, and the unforgettable middle eight section serves as an early precursor to the Americana sound that would resonate with future bands like the Jayhawks and Wilco.

4. “No Time”

With “No Time,” the Monkees deliver a lively and slightly chaotic track that appears to take inspiration from the Beatles’ “I’m Down.” Mickey Dolenz’s energetic vocals add to the excitement, with verses featuring snippets of gibberish and overheard conversations. The result is a playful and rocking song that adds a fun element to the album.

5. “Randy Scouse Git”

This song displays the Monkees’ knack for blending whimsy with thought-provoking lyrics. The verses describe a lively party scene, while the choruses cleverly aim at someone who offends the singer’s sensibilities. Originally titled “Alternative Title” in the UK due to its cheeky nature, “Randy Scouse Git” captures the Monkees’ playful spirit and remains a standout track on “Headquarters.”