Theme From The Monkees - The Monkees | Song Tabs

Theme From The Monkees The Monkees

The original "Theme From The Monkees" is an upbeat pop-rock song from the 1960s, famous as the opening for the band's TV show. Its bright tempo and catchy melody make it a fun choice for beginner guitarists.

Chords and Progression

The song uses basic open chords: E, Am, F, D, G, C, A, Em. If F is difficult, try the easier Fmaj7 (xx3210) as a substitute.

Practice switching between Am and F, as well as C, F, and G, since these transitions appear frequently. Move slowly at first, aiming for clean chord changes.

Strumming Pattern

A simple, energetic strumming pattern works best: try down-down-up-up-down-up (D D U U D U) for each measure. Keep the motion relaxed and steady to match the song's lively feel.

Emphasize the first beat slightly to give the rhythm a bouncy, pop sound. Listen to the original to match the tempo and feel.

Tips for Beginners

Count in before starting, as the intro is just one bar of E.
Watch for quick chord changes, especially in choruses (C-F-G-C, etc.).
If barre chords are tough, use partial chords or simplified versions.
Keep your strumming hand moving, even if you miss a chord, to maintain the song’s momentum.

Practice the bridge slowly before playing at full speed.

Intro

Verse 1

Here weAm come, walkin' down theF street

We get the funniestD looks from, everyone weG meet

Chorus

Hey hey we're theC Monkees, andF people say weG monkey aC round

ButF we're tooG busyC singin', toF put anyG bodyAm down

Verse 2

We go wherever weAm want to, do what we like toF do

We don't have time to getD restless, there's always somethingG new

Chorus

Hey hey we're theC Monkees, andF people say weG monkey aC round

ButF we're tooG busyC singin', toF put anyG bodyA down

Bridge

D We're just trying to be friendly,G come watch usA sing andD play

G We're theA young generD ation, andG we've gotA something toEm sayE

Verse 3

AnyAm time, or anyF where, just look over yourD shoulder

Guess who'll be standingG there

Chorus

Hey hey we're theC Monkees, andF people say weG monkey aC round

ButF we're tooG busyC singin', toF put anyG bodyC downF G

Instrumental

Final Chorus

Hey hey we're theC Monkees, andF people say weG monkey aC round

ButF we're tooG busyC singin', toF put anyG bodyA down

We're just trying to beD friendly,G come watch usA sing andD play

G We're theA young generD ation, andG we gotA something toD say

Hey hey we're the Monkees,G hey hey we're theD MonkeesG D