About the song
The Monkees, a pop-rock band that became a cultural phenomenon in the 1960s, struck gold with their iconic hit, “I’m a Believer.” This song, released as a single on November 12, 1966, and later included in their album “More of The Monkees,” epitomizes the infectious energy and charm that made the band so beloved. Written by the legendary Neil Diamond, “I’m a Believer” quickly soared to the top of the charts, becoming one of The Monkees’ most enduring and recognizable songs.
The release of “I’m a Believer” came at a pivotal time for The Monkees. The band, initially formed for a television show about a fictional pop group, had rapidly gained real-world success with their music. The lyrics of “I’m a Believer” tell a joyful story of newfound love and faith in romance after initial skepticism. The chorus, with its catchy line “Then I saw her face, now I’m a believer,” captures the euphoric moment of falling in love and the transformative power of that experience.
Musically, the song is a masterclass in 1960s pop rock. It features a buoyant, upbeat tempo, driven by a lively guitar riff and an infectious melody that invites listeners to sing along. The production, helmed by Don Kirshner and Jeff Barry, incorporates lush harmonies and a dynamic rhythm section that epitomizes the polished yet exuberant sound of The Monkees. Micky Dolenz’s lead vocals bring an earnest and enthusiastic quality to the song, perfectly conveying the emotions of surprise and delight that come with love.
The success of “I’m a Believer” was monumental. It spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the best-selling record of 1967. This achievement underscored The Monkees’ transition from television stars to legitimate music icons, proving that their appeal went far beyond the small screen. The song’s popularity also helped solidify Neil Diamond’s reputation as a gifted songwriter, as his catchy and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a wide audience.
Socially and culturally, “I’m a Believer” had a significant impact. During the 1960s, a time marked by social upheaval and change, The Monkees provided a sense of fun and optimism. Their music, including “I’m a Believer,” offered a cheerful escape and a reminder of the simple joys of love and life. The song’s feel-good message and infectious rhythm made it a favorite at parties and gatherings, contributing to its lasting legacy as a pop classic.
Over the years, “I’m a Believer” has maintained its popularity, transcending generations. It has been covered by numerous artists, most notably by Smash Mouth for the 2001 animated film “Shrek,” which introduced the song to a new audience and cemented its status as a timeless hit. The enduring appeal of “I’m a Believer” lies in its universal theme of love and its irresistibly catchy tune, making it a song that continues to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
In summary, The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer” is a quintessential pop hit that captures the exuberance and innocence of 1960s music. Released on November 12, 1966, and featured in their album “More of The Monkees,” the song’s infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic production have made it a timeless favorite. Its success not only cemented The Monkees’ place in music history but also showcased the songwriting prowess of Neil Diamond. Whether you are hearing it for the first time or rediscovering its magic, “I’m a Believer” remains a joyful anthem of love and happiness.
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Lyric
I thought love was only true in fairy talesMeant for someone else but not for meAh, love was out to get meThat’s the way it seemedDisappointment haunted all my dreamsThen I saw her face, now I’m a believerNot a trace of doubt in my mindI’m in loveI’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I triedI thought love was more or less a given thingSeems the more I gave, the less I gotWhat’s the use in tryin’?All you get is painWhen I needed sunshine, I got rainOh, then I saw her face, now I’m a believerNot a trace of doubt in my mindI’m in loveI’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I triedAh, love was out to get meNow, that’s the way it seemedDisappointment haunted all my dreams