2:33
Headquarters, 1967
Written by Micky Dolenz
This song has the distinction of being banned by the BBC under its title, released instead as "Alternate Title," due to Dolenz not realizing that "randy" and "git" were Britishisms not quite ready for prime time. The song was inspired by Dolenz hanging out with the Beatles ("the four kings of EMI. are sitting stately on the floor") and Cass Elliott, as well as his own future wife ("She's a wonderful lady / And she's mine all mine"). What's fascinating is how this song is split in two: the verses and chorus are counterpoints to one another. The verses are whimsical party reportage, while the chorus is a series of condescending lines typically aimed at the younger generation of the time ("why don't you cut your hair?" and "why don't you be like me?"). Musically, it's all manic drumming, booming timpani, and melodic chaos. It's one of the Monkees' best moments, brimming with intelligence and frustration under the pop gloss.
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