Issue 88

Paul Mazursky passes

Goodbye Gerry Goffin

Issue 88 Summer 2014

Join us at: On facebook And read the newsletter at: http://issuu.com/purpleflowergang It’s free!

Editor: Cindy Bryant With a little help from my friends, “the crazy lot!”

An Official Monkees Fan Club Monkeeing Around Since 1987

In this issue Letter from the Editor ............... ...3 Gerry Geffen ........................... ...4 Paul Mazursky ........................ ...7 My Storybook of You ............... ...8 Peter News ............................. ...18 Micky News............................. ...19 Mike News .............................. ...20 David News............................. ...21 Afterglow................................. ...23 Rocksino................................. ...24 Monkees Tour 2014 ................ ...28 Ken Thomas ........................... ...39 Michael Nesmith Cancels U.K. Tour ............................................... ...40 She Said, She Said ................. ...41 You and I ................................ ...46 Beavertown 2014 .................... ...47

years.

Thanks to those who made this issue possible:Bonnie Borgh, Dawn Hoffman, and Colleen Johnson who made all the road trips so much fun. I thank God for bringing you into my life!

Becca Nelson and Marie Gibson who help keep in news! Erin Jacobs, please keep sharing your sense of humor! Judith Hadlock, please keep sharing your memories.. Akiko Ikeda, you lucky girl. David’s wonderful family, especially Hazel, Lynda, and Kirsten.. And most of all, David, Micky, Mike, and Peter for keeping it alive and giving us all so much pleasure over the years.

My sincerest thanks to all of you who have made this newsletter possible over the

Thank you, David, for all the love and support you gave to the Purple Flower Gang over the years. You are missed and lovingly remembered every day.

The Gang

Monkee Shines

Dear Gang, It’s been a long ride. Seems like there has always been a PFG and Monkee Shines. Truth is there has been for half my life and the Monkees for most of my life. Can’t imagine life without them all.

We’ve gone through so many changes over the years. We started with a little electric typewriter in my dinky 3 room house. There were 7 of us, mostly teenagers. We called ourselves a fan club as we traveled around the Midwest to see the Monkees perform.

One day the teens came to me and said, “I guess we should tell you we registered the Purple Flower Gang with the National Association of Fan Clubs ( now gone). Yikes!

Well, if we were going to do it we were going to do it right so I contacted David Fishoff who was handling The Monkees back then and got permission to be an official club and we were off.

What a job the newsletters were back then. I typed the newsletter and all graphics and photos had to be put in by hand. The photos had to go through a special process before they could be printed in the newsletter. It was all very expensive. Oh, the money I spent! LOL! It was never a money making proposition that’s for sure!

And we collated and stapled by hand.

The time it took!

Then I upgraded to a word processor. That was so much easier but the graphics and photos still had to be done by hand. But, at least the printer did the collation and stapling by then.

Finally, I had a computer and the newsletter format improved greatly. For the first time I could put the

3

photos right into the newsletter and I had millions of graphics to use. It was so much fun to learn the things I could do.

The internet followed and information because so easy to acquire which was nice but the PFG was never so much about the information. Back then no one could do a better job getting the information out than Monkee Business Fanzine, which was THE newsletter. We just wanted to give fans a chance to share their stories and give the ones who weren’t able to go to shows a way to feel they were a part of it all.

The PFG was always more about the friendships. Some came and went, sadly. Such is life. But the core group has remained life long friends and for that I will always be grateful.

Now we are moving into the next phase and I hope you will come with us. The PFG has grown to over 4300 on Facebook. The nice part of Facebook is that in the group there we can interact with each other, talk to each other, and share our favorite videos and photos. Information is instantaneous.

There are bad things about the Facebook for sure but I guess the good things outweigh the bad.

We’ve lost David and that breaks my heart. He was one of our biggest supporters and a friend. We will continue to tell his story as well as yours for as long as you want to share them. We hope you will come along for the next phase of our journey.

We’ve come a long way, baby!

Cindy

Monkee Shines

He was some kind of wonderful: Lyricist Gerry Goffin, Carole King's ex-husband and prolific writing partner, dies at 75    

Gerry Goffin wrote more than 50 top 40 hits for such artists as Whitney Houston, Diana Ross, the Monkees and Gladys Knight Goffin and Carole King married in 1959 and divorced in 1968, but he continued writing popular songs The songwriters were inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 Goffin is survived by his wife Michelle, his five children and six grandchildren

By Snejana Farberov and Associated Press Reporter

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2663011/Gerry-Goffin-Carole-Kingsex-husband-writing-partner-dies-75.html#ixzz35CCF6wsO

Gerry Goffin, a prolific and multidimensional lyricist who with his thenwife and collaborator Carole King wrote such hits as Will You Love Me Tomorrow and The Loco-Motion, died early Thursday at his home in Los Angeles. He was 75.

solo artists and multiple voices.

King and Goffin divorced in 1968, but Goffin kept churning out international hits, including Savin' All My Love for You for Whitney Houston.

Goffin and King were inducted into the His wife, Michelle Goffin, confirmed his Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1987 and passing in a statement. the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three years later.

Goffin, who married King in 1959 while they were in their teens, penned more than 50 top 40 hits, including Pleasant King said in a statement that Goffin Valley Sunday for the Monkees, was her 'first love' and had a 'profound Crying in the Rain by the Everly impact' on her life.

Brothers, Some Kind of Wonderful and On Broadway for the Drifters and Take Good Care of My Baby by Bobby Vee. 'Gerry was a good man with a dynamic force, whose words and creative influence will resonate for generations Goffin was able to pen jokey lyrics or to come,' King said. 'His words achingly sad ones, and he did it for

4

Monkee Shines Top honors: Goffin and King, by then long divorced, were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three

expressed what so many people were Sedaka, Howard Greenfield Carole Bayer Sager. feeling but didn't know how to say.'

On her Twitter page, the songstress shared an old black-and-white photo of Goffin as a young man, accompanied by the caption: 'Gerry Goffin 19392014/There are no words.'

and

The show ends just as King is enjoying fame for her groundbreaking solo album Tapestry. Though it also alleges Goffin's womanizing and mental instability were causes of the breakup, he happily attended the opening of the musical.

The Goffin-King love affair is the subject of the Tony Award-nominated A spokeswoman for the show said the musical Beautiful: The Carole King cast would dedicate Thursday night's Musical on Broadway. performance to Goffin.

King, while backing the project and with one of their daughters acting as a producer, had avoided seeing it for months because it dredged up sad memories. She finally sat through it in April.

After his divorce from King, Goffin garnered an Academy Award nomination with Michael Masser for the theme to the 1975 film Mahogany for Diana Ross. He also earned a Golden Globe nomination for So Sad the Song in 1977 from the film Pipe The musical shows the two composing Dreams. their songs at Aldon Music, the Brill Building publishing company in Goffin was born in Brooklyn in 1939 Manhattan that also employed Neil and was working as an assistant

5

Monkee Shines chemist when he met King at Queens Goffin also collaborated with another College.

Aldon composer, Barry Mann, on the hit Who Put the Bomp (In the Bomp 'She was interested in writing rock 'n' Bomp Bomp Bomp). King and Goffin roll, and I was interested in writing this wrote The Loco-Motion, which Broadway play,' Goffin told Vanity Fair eventually was sung by their one-time in 2001. 'So we had an agreement baby sitter Little Eva. where she would write [music] to the play if I would write [lyrics] to some of her rock 'n' roll melodies.

Goffin continued co-writing songs, including I've Got to Use My Imagination recorded by Gladys Knight and the Pips, and It's Not the Spotlight, recorded by Rod Stewart.

'And eventually it came to be a boyand-girl relationship. Eventually I began to lose heart in my play, and we stuck to writing rock 'n' roll.'

A whirlwind romance led to a marriage and their first hit, when she was only 17 and he was 20, Will You Love Me Tomorrow for the Shirelles, which a pregnant King helped write while suffering morning sickness.

In the 1980s and '90s, he co-wrote Tonight I Celebrate My Love, a duet recorded by Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack, Miss You Like Crazy sung by Natalie Cole and the Whitney Houston mega-hit Savin' All My Love for You. Both quit their day jobs to focus on In 1996, he released his final album, music, and other songs followed, titled Back Room Blood. including Up on the Roof for the Drifters, One Fine Day for the Chiffons and Chains, which was later covered He is survived by his five children, six grandchildren and his wife Michelle. by the Beatles.

Gerry Goffin and Carole King

6

Monkee Shines

Paul Mazursky, 5 – Time Oscar Nominee Dies

By Todd Leopold, CNN Carol & Ted & Alice" was about wifeswapping; "An Unmarried Woman" was about a wealthy New Yorker whose husband leaves her, putting her in the dating pool for the first time in years.

CNN) -- Paul Mazursky, a five-time Oscar nominee who directed and wrote such films as "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice," "An Unmarried Woman" and "Down and Out in Beverly Hills," has died, his agent said Tuesday.

In a 1977 interview with Film Comment, Mazursky said that studios would have preferred him to make films for more money and with bigger stars, but he followed his gut, opted for a lower budget and went with character actor types over movie stars.

"They would prefer that I do one for $6 He was 84. The cause of death was million rather than $2 million and shore not revealed, but Mazursky had been it up with a couple of names. It's in ill health for some time. easier to sell. And I would have done it with a big star if I thought there was Mazursky was known for his one who was perfect for the part," he compassionate touch as a writer and said. director, guiding such performers as Dyan Cannon (1969's "Bob & Carol & Instead, however, he cast people like Ted & Alice"), Art Carney (1974's Carney and Ron Silver (1989's "Harry and Tonto") and Jill Clayburgh "Enemies: A Love Story").

(1978's "An Unmarried Woman") to Academy Award nominations for Other Mazursky-directed films include acting.

"Blume in Love" (1973), "Next Stop, Greenwich Village" (1976), "Moscow Carney, in fact, won a best actor on the Hudson" (1984) and "Scenes Oscar for his performance as a from a Mall" (1991). widower who travels cross-country with his cat, Tonto.

Mazursky was also a part of television history, having co-written the script for Indeed, Mazursky was fond of such the pilot of "The Monkees." low-key, human stories, though usually with a dose of humor. "Bob & 1999: Mazursky talks about memoir

7

Monkee Shines Mazursky started out as an actor, making his debut in Stanley Kubrick's early work "Fear and Desire" (1954) and guest-starring in several TV series, including "The Twilight Zone" and "The Real McCoys." He made frequent appearances in his own films and was an often wise-cracking presence in other works, including "The Sopranos," in which he played a card dealer friend of Junior Soprano, and "Curb Your Enthusiasm," in which he played Norm, an assistant of Mel Brooks.

In real life, Brooks and Mazursky were close friends.

When Mazursky received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame late last year, Brooks said, "If he were gay, and I were gay, I think we would hang out together. That's how much I love him."

"I love you too," Mazursky said.

"Prove it!" Brooks retorted. "Pick up the bill for once, why don't you."

By Bonnie Borgh How in the world does one archives is an excerpt of: capture, for historical purposes, the last printed contribution for ‘The Purple Flower Gang’s’ In September of 1966, I entered “Monkee Shines” newsletter? first grade at Walcott School in Walcott, Iowa. Through television, My Mom used to always say, I also entered a phenomenon “Good things must come to an called “The Monkees”. end.” In my humble opinion, it was good. In fact, in Biblical fashion, it My cue call came from my mother was “very good”. at 6:30 pm on Monday nights.

Vividly, I remember riding my Perhaps the best way to start is at bicycle until it was time for “The the very beginning. Once upon a Monkees” television show. Joining time back in 1993, Cindy Bryant millions of others world wide, I was and I had this marvelous idea of a product of their intended writing a book. Everyone said, audience. Several other girls on “You should write a book.” my school bus and I even Obviously, our collaboration was established a Monkees’ fan club. never formally published, but The purpose of our association preserved in my Monkees’ was genuine regardless of the fact 8

Monkee Shines we never paid dues, and we never mother to buy for me was “The produced a newsletter.

Monkees’ Greatest Hits” which was released in 1969.

Scenes from The Monkees’ series remained in my “Heart and Soul”. Regrettably, The Monkees Most significant in the pages of my appeared on television before the memory was an episode entitled dawn of Video Cassette Recorders “The Success Story” in which (VCRs). I do remember when Davy’s grandfather came from Davy appeared on “Love American England to visit the boys. Despite Style”. Of course, I watched the numerous attempts, it seemed as infamous episode when Davy though the Monkees were unable guest starred on “The Brady to convince Davy’s grandfather Bunch”. how successful they were. Being Davy’s guardian, his grandfather As a teenager, I was interested in insisted upon going back to and listened to a wide variety of England and ‘taking Davy with popular musical groups, but I him’. I cried. The Monkees’ were never forgot my roots. I played not just actors portraying rock and “The Monkees’ Greatest Hits” roll musicians on a television album over and over. series. They were real to me.

During the summer of 1976, The winding staircase in my Debbie (my farm neighbor and grandmother’s farm house was the friend) returned from a family aisle Judy and Ann (my cousins) vacation to St. Louis, Missouri. and I descended when we Debbie and her three sisters were pretended to marry The Monkees. excited to share with me who they About eight years old, I wanted to saw in concert when they visited marry Davy Jones. However, we Six Flags Amusement Park. When chose our bridegrooms as if we Debbie told me “Dolenz, Jones, were picking players for a sport’s Boyce, and Hart” performed, I was team. Unfortunately, Judy, who both thrilled and disappointed. was older and bigger than me, Hearing about the show was beat me to the altar (which was certainly the next best thing to probably a coffee table) with Davy. being there, but I seriously felt as if Our actual ceremonies are vague, I had missed my one and only but I do remember I had to marry opportunity to ever see any of The Micky. “He’s no Davy Jones!”

Monkees.

After The Monkees’ series was cancelled, Saturday morning reruns of their episodes were aired at 11:00 am CST. On my tenth birthday, I received a small stereo.

The first album I persuaded my 9

Time passed, but my interest for The Monkees continued to flourish.

I became enthusiastic about collecting Monkees’ memorabilia.

Since Monkees’ albums on Colgems were no longer available

Monkee Shines in record stores, I found myself “in some little out of the way place that nobody goes” (The Salvation Army Surplus Store).

On November 11, 1978, (my father’s birthday) I searched through hundreds of albums. In relatively good condition, I purchased “The Monkees”, “More of The Monkees”, “Headquarters”, “Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn, and Jones, Ltd”, and “The Birds, The Bees, and The Monkees” for fifty cents each.

Those who know about my infatuation with food will appreciate I was almost unable to finish an elaborate birthday dinner, cake, and ice cream rapidly enough to listen to my new albums!

Some time later, at the same “little out of the way place that nobody goes”, I stumbled upon a psychedelically decorated book.

As I looked more intently, I gasped.

Gingerly, I picked up Who’s Got The Button. I flipped through the pages as if to absorb the contents. Then I grasped the book as though I was carrying a football in for a touchdown. The salesperson told me the book cost fifty cents.

Retaining my composure, I said, “I’ll take it.”

In the years that followed, I managed to purchase almost all of The Monkees’ original albums and paperback books.

They were tangible items which satisfied the thirst I had to recapture the memories I had retained as a child.

However, as priceless as my collection was to me, I would have given anything for an opportunity

to see The Monkees. In particular, I just wanted to see Davy Jones.

Let me take you back to when MTV was truly an entertaining Music Television Video network. It was an ordinary evening in February of 1986. I had invited Jan (my friend) over for homemade pizza. We just sat down to eat in the kitchen, when I heard an announcement about The Monkees’ coming to MTV. Completely confused and still chewing, Jan and I flew into the living room. We listened to the remainder of the advertisement. I was absolutely filled with excitement. I could not believe that MTV proposed to feature a “Monkees’ Marathon” entitled “Pleasant Valley Sunday” featuring twenty-two and one-half hours of continuous Monkees’ episodes! I proclaimed to Jan, “I am going to buy a VCR!” A new VCR was a Valentine’s Day present from me to me.

Purchasing the VCR was quite an experience in and of itself. I asked the salesman if he was sure the VCR would record for a twentyfour hour period. He assured me it would record for such an extended duration, but he was curious about the necessity of such an assignment. I explained to him that MTV was featuring twenty-two and one-half hours of Monkees’ episodes, and I wanted to tape all of them. He laughed, “You want to do what?”

I repeated my intentions.

He continued, “You want to buy a VCR to tape ‘The Monkees’?” I said, “Yes, I do. You

10

Monkee Shines know how some people tape football games? I want to tape ‘The Monkees’.” “You’re not old enough to remember ‘The Monkees’!” he teased. I remarked in a rather defensive tone, “I am so! Now, are you going to sell me a VCR or do I have to go to another store?” (I wanted to know what ever happened to the theory that the customer is always right.)

It was finally February 22, 1986!

Jan and I decided to commemorate the event by once again having home-made pizza.

Remote control in hand and eyes glued to the television set, “Pleasant Valley Sunday” began at 11:00 pm. It would be impossible for me to describe how I felt. I even had to stop to test the VCR at one point during the marathon. It was “Hard to Believe”, but “I’m A Believer”; it was possible to tape a program and play it over and over again.

event and to represent the absence of Michael Nesmith, I wore a replica of his green wool hat.

(This was truly a rarity because I refuse to wear a stocking hat even in the cold of winter because it messes up my hair). A group of people who attended the 4:00 pm show asked if I was ‘Mike’s little sister.’ I played along. I replied, “Sure!”

They asked me if my name was ‘Michele Nesmith.’ I answered, “Yeah!” They added, “Are you going to sing?” I laughed, “Sure! I know all the words!”

Liz (my friend) and I were seated on some bleachers next to the Mississippi River a great distance from the stage.

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Herman’s Hermits and The Grass Roots from my vantage point, but when it was time for The Monkees to appear, my heart felt like a bomb ready to explode.

The “Theme to The

Due to The Monkees’ immediate popularity, MTV televised two Monkees’ episodes a day in March and three Monkees’ episodes a day in April.

To heighten the second wave of “Monkeemania”, I heard about plans for an upcoming summer tour. When I found out The Monkees were almost “comin’ to my town”, I was absolutely ecstatic!

On June 20, 1986, The Monkees were scheduled to perform at Burlington Steamboat Days in Burlington, Iowa. It was close to 95 degrees that Friday afternoon.

Yet, to complement the spirit of the 11

Monkee Shines Monkees” song began.

Armed with my little 35 mm camera, I took my first picture of The Monkees as Micky, David, and Peter walked onto the stage.

“I Remember The Feeling!”

I turned to Liz, and I said, “Everything’s okay, but when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go!”

It felt as if I was being pulled by a magnet.

I excused my way through the unbelievable crowd of people. I stood behind a parking meter (of all places) behind the reserved (VIP) section.

I was transfixed. It was awesome to behold such a scene. Forty feet away from me stood three of the four original Monkees.

It was especially great to hear a “live” performance of all of their vintage tunes. After I had secured my spot, it dawned on me about “The Girl I Left Behind Me”. Somehow, I managed to maneuver myself back to Liz who was still seated on the bleachers. Emphatically I said, “You’ve got to come with me! It’s wild up there!” A bit hesitant, Liz relinquished her seat and joined me on that “Incredible” journey.

Liz, who was not a devout Monkees’ fan, admitted she really enjoyed the concert.

She commented that David moved like a “leap frog” on “Valleri”. We stayed for their evening performance (along with 28,000 other people). I remember Liz said to me, “If they played a third show, I bet you would want to stay!” If she only knew.

I got home, I read it earnestly.

There was a complete tour schedule provided, and I was elated to learn about another Monkees’ concert slated for August 14 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Included in the program I noticed an address for the Monkees’ fanzine “Monkee Business”.

I thought, “You must be joking!”

However, twenty-six years old, I enlisted!

Due to the demand once again, another “Monkees’ Marathon” was telecast on June 21, 1986 entitled “Last Train to Clarksville” which featured twenty-two hours of Monkees’ episodes. Due to my young age, I missed some of the fine points from the first wave of “Monkeemania”; I definitely relished the second wave.

The Monkees’ concert slated for August 14 was postponed until November 6, 1986 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. To acknowledge this appearance, I thought it would be “kind of groovy” to have a Monkees’ party. On October 24, 1986, friends one and all (who were not Monkees’ fans) came.

There were bananas, peanuts, and guitar shaped cookies to eat.

Monkees’ episodes were played on the VCR, and Monkees’ records were enjoyed on the stereo.

Aside from the little incident when I tried to heat a metal fondue pot with a wooden handle in the microwave, it was a wonderful event. Fortunately, it was not necessary to invite the At the concert, I bought a 20th local fire department.

Anniversary Tour Program. When 12

Monkee Shines Another Monkees’ Marathon was aired on October 26, 1986 which featured twenty-two hours of “The Monkees” with Micky Dolenz, David Jones, and Peter Tork as guest hosts.

Another dose of The Monkees’ episodes seemed to be a great prelude for the concert they performed on November 6, 1986 at the Five Seasons Center in Cedar Rapids. Chris (my boyfriend at the time) and Steve (his younger brother) accompanied me to the show. We were seated as close to the ceiling of the auditorium as possible, but I particularly remember when David sang “I Wanna Be Free”. Chris said to me, “He’s looking at you, Bonnie!” (Yeah, right; How did I know then that “Someday Man” he would?)

of The Monkees personally autographed by David.

Unbeknownst to me the reason, I was deeply grateful.

Much to my delight, I carefully read in “Monkee Business” concert dates for The Monkees’ 1987 “Pool It” Summer Tour. Without delay, I ordered tickets to the closest venue. I invited Susan (my cousin) to the July 12, 1987 concert at Poplar Creek in Chicago.

About the same time, I received a postcard from Maggie McManus (bless her heart) announcing David’s personal appearance to greet fans and sign copies of his autobiography on July 10, 1987 in Omaha, Nebraska.

I thought, “Omaha, Nebraska!

Omaha, Nebraska? Who I do know in Omaha, Nebraska?” It was an absolute coincidence that Liz had In my most optimistic imagination, just moved to Omaha. I thought, “I The Monkees’ 20th Anniversary wonder…”

Reunion Tour was a dream come true. In addition to a tremendous Five hours by car I traveled to visit extended tour, Micky, David, and Liz and meet David Jones face-toPeter were featured in the face! David was scheduled to newspapers and magazines. They appear at 1:00 pm at the starred on numerous television Westroads Shopping Center. It programs and specials.

(The seemed as if several thousand purchase of a VCR was a good people were gathered by the time investment.)

Liz and I arrived at 11:00 am.

Shortly after 1:00 pm, David In late 1986, I ordered and entered the center of the mall received a copy of David’s accompanied by applause and a autobiography, They Made A roar from the crowd. David sang Monkee Out Of Me. I thought “Daydream Believer” before he David’s book was wonderful! To began to autograph copies of his my complete surprise during the book. It was approximately 2:15 holiday season, I also received a pm before it was my turn to 5” x 7” black and white photograph approach the stage. My heart 13

Monkee Shines raced the speed of light. I knew my lines; I had a lifetime to rehearse them. As I recall, David Lewis (David’s security man) handed my copy of David’s book to him. By all means, this was the pinnacle; David Jones stood right across the table from me. The others ahead of me in line asked David to personalize their name. I figured I knew my name. It was his name I was interested in.

Undoubtedly, adorned in my green wool hat, David must have thought, “I’ve got a live one.” I talked as quickly as my heart raced. “I’ve been a fan of yours since I was six years old. I think you guys are great!” As I spoke I watched as David signed my book.

My eyes caught sight of his watch; I was hypnotized.

The gold glistened. The trance broke as David returned the book and looked at me. Even after having heard the same words repetitively throughout his life, it was as if he heard them for the first time. A strong feeling came over me that it was for that reason that he was there. Others ahead of me in the autograph line gave David a kiss. I thought, “Take a chance, baby, take a chance!” and I applied the “Monkee See, Monkee Do” policy.

Before I realized what I said, I heard, “May I have a kiss?” He said, “Sure.”

David was kind enough to give me a kiss on the cheek. The quote came to mind, “What a kiss! I’ve never felt this way before!”

postcard from Maggie in my mailbox.

This was too much!

When I called Susan and asked her if she would like to visit Woodfield Mall on the afternoon of July 12 before The Monkees’ evening concert at Poplar Creek, she said, “Yeah, sure!” I added, “David is going to be there for a booksigning!” She replied, “Wow!” Given the large crowd in Omaha, I anticipated an even greater crowd in Chicago.

We arrived at

Woodfield Mall in plenty of time to secure a place in line. In addition to the crowd of people gathered at Walden’s Bookstore for David’s booksigning, a “Gang” of people were “hangin’ round”. Amused by their enthusiasm and creativity, I pointed to these women dressed in purple t-shirts.

They called themselves “The Purple Flower Gang”. Susan did not understand the association. I explained in one of The Monkees’ adventures, they encountered the notorious “Purple Flower Gang”, and they borrowed the name from the episode entitled: “Monkees A La Carte”. In retrospect, I did not have a lot of My car flew home on adrenalin. room to talk about “team spirit”.

Upon my return, there was another There I stood sporting a green 14

Monkee Shines wool hat!

Since David had already autographed my copy of They Made A Monkee Out of Me, I asked him to sign a picture I took of him at the Omaha booksigning.

Once again, he was kind enough to honor my request. Susan was quite impressed by David autographing her copy of his book.

(I was determined to mold my “little” cousin into a Monkees’ fan!)

As we neared the entrance gate at Poplar Creek that evening for the concert, we unexpectedly met up with “The Purple Flower Gang” again! I considered myself pretty tough with a camera in my hand, and I said to them, “Your idea is great! May I take your picture?”

Not a bit camera shy, they giggled and assembled together.

I thought, “The folks back home are not going to believe this!”

I thanked them for the photo, and we found our seats. From our remote location, we were unable to see without the aid of binoculars, but the atmosphere was euphoric.

I smiled at Susan who really seemed to enjoy the concert. It was a great feeling for me to share the experience with her.

I imagined how I would have felt if a cousin took me to see The Monkees twenty years before.

Anxious to have my photos developed after the booksigning and concert, the first item on my agenda once I returned home was to visit the one-hour photo processing lab. There seemed to be a line of people as I walked into the store. I did a double take.

“Excuse me,” I began, “Didn’t I just see you in Chicago?” Dressed in different attire, the woman exclaimed, “Mike (Nesmith)!”

I responded, “The Purple Flower Gang?” She nodded. I added, “I’ve got pictures of you guys!”

Officially, I met Cindy Bryant and Laura Reeves. They seemed to be the two “ring leaders” of this Gang.

The three of us had absolutely no idea when we talked in Chicago that we lived so close in proximity to each other. Cindy and Laura hailed from Muscatine (fortyfive minutes away), and I resided in the Quad Cities. We had so much in common. It seemed ironic we had all been at the same Monkees’ concerts in Burlington, Iowa on June 20, 1986 and in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on November 6, 1986. We discovered from each other we also had plans to see The Monkees in Merrillville, Indiana on August 28, 1987. Although we purchased our tickets at different times, we made plans to meet there.

It still seemed inconceivable to me that grown women would be involved in a Monkees’ fan club called “The Purple Flower Gang”.

Needless to say, I enlisted! I have always believed, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!”

Cindy also mentioned her plans to travel out to Los Angeles and Lake Tahoe to see The Monkees in concert in September and October.

I chuckled, “You must be joking!” and in the second breath, I added, “Can I go along?” I can remember

15

Monkee Shines Cindy counting heads in her mind, and she replied, “Yeah, I think we have room in the Bronco.” She paused to explain, “You will have to order your tickets for the Greek Theatre because we already have ours.” I thought, “I can dig it!”

and pretended to be tour guides.

As we crossed a bridge, I announced, “Here we have a lovely scene. Look at all of the boats!”

I should have been watching all of the cars! Both Cindy and I were on a one-way street going the wrong direction!

Fortunately, at 5:00 am, the traffic was sparse.

We made the quickest right hand turn imaginable as soon as we crossed the span.

We stopped to catch our breath, and we concurred the next hotel we saw we were going to inhabit.

The camaraderie between Cindy and myself was instantaneous and unique.

I had never met this woman before in my life, and I had just committed myself on a twoweek vacation with her, Laura, and some other Monkees’ fans I did not even know.

Monkees are ze craziest peoples!

Within several blocks, we landed at the “Hyatt Regency”. It was an The concert at the Holiday Star absolute coincidence The Theatre in Merrillville, Indiana on Monkees’ buses were parked in August 28, 1987 was basically the front. We decided if this place was “pre-show”.

Cindy, Laura, and good enough for The Monkees, it some other members of “The was good enough for us.

Purple Flower Gang” held me at gun-point to join them to drive to Were we ever mistaken. We were the Marcus Amphitheatre in hassled by the hotel management Milwaukee, Wisconsin to see The during the entire stay. Apparently, Monkees perform the next night on there were some individuals who August 29. caused some commotion earlier in the morning or later in the evening We left Merrillville at 2:00 am and (whichever you prefer).

The arrived in Milwaukee at 5:00 am. managers at the Hyatt inaccurately Basically, that is all I remember assumed these gangsters were about the drive; I was asleep for affiliated with “The Purple Flower most of it.

However, I do Gang”. Unfortunately, we were the remember Dawn Van Meter (now ones who were left ‘holding the Hoffman) tickling me in the side so bag’ for their inappropriate I would stay awake since I was the behavior.

We were falsely driver. My mission was to follow accused of “flashing” The Cindy (the leader of the pack). Monkees, and the management The sun was just beginning to rise, informed us we were not to take and despite the fact we all needed pictures of or disrupt “their guests”. a minimum of eight hours of sleep, We were appalled. Who did they the morning light refreshed us. think we were?

Dawn and I started to play a game.

We pointed to various buildings In response to our false 16

Monkee Shines accusations, we drafted a letter explaining how remorseful we were if we (or any persons of “The Purple Flower Gang”) in any way created a disturbance or deprivation of privacy to Micky, David, Peter, or any members of their families. Our letter of apology was discretely delivered to David.

mind Misty watercolor memories of the way we were.

Scattered pictures of the smiles we left behind Smiles we gave to one another for the way we were.

Can it be that it was all so simple then or has time rewritten every line?

If we had the chance to do it all again tell me would we? Could we?

Memories, may be beautiful and yet what's too painful to remember we simply choose to forget So it's the laughter we remember whenever we remember the way we were.

We were all gathered in our hotel room hesitant to walk out the door for fear of continued harassment.

Suddenly, we gasped. Something had been slipped under our door.

It was obvious David read our letter and empathized with us. We later learned it was David’s daughters who hand-delivered individually addressed autographed 8” x 10” photos of himself.

It was no longer important to us My Eyes Adored You what the establishment of the by: The Four Seasons Hyatt Regency thought of us. We felt assured David’s kind gesture My eyes adored you Though I was representative of Micky and never laid a hand on you My eyes Peter as well. adored you Like a million miles away From me you couldn't see And thus began our own Monkees’ How I adored you So close, so marathon of unforgettable close And yet so far memories between the likes of “The Purple Flower Gang” and The Seasons in the Sun Monkees both collectively and by: Terry Jacks individually.

The unbelievable Close Encounters of The Monkees’ We had joy, we had fun, we had Kind we had again and again and seasons in the sun. again are beyond comprehension. But the stars we could reach were just starfish on the beach These song lyrics are dancing in my head; I think I’d like to end on Imagine that; wrong groups. Plus, just a few of these: that’s not exactly correct. We did reach the stars.

The Way We Were by: Barbara Streisand

Memories, light the corners of my 17

Monkee Shines

By Becca Nelson

P

eter started the summer out touring with the boys and bringing audiences everywhere to their feet! He sounded fantastic as always and was able to show off his skills on guitar, keys, and banjo. He joined Micky in a beautiful rendition of Shades of Grey along with his usual hits and also took part in Daydream Believer which was really lovely done by all the guys this time around.

grandkids—who have also embraced you. What is that like?

It’s extraordinarily gratifying. One of the things about the Monkees TV show was that, since there were no senior adult figures, the kids were able to imagine getting along in life with just their peers to help and be helped by. I believe it was an important message for the times, and remains so to this day.

Decades have passed since your Here is a great little interview Peter did first tour and you’ve all traveled with Dr. Nancy Berk of Parade right separate paths—raising families before the tour kicked off… and building successful careers beyond the Monkees. Does that As the Monkees’ 2014 tour kicks make the reunion tour almost like a off, what are you most looking personal reunion for you and your forward to? bandmates?

The usual: adoring fans, listening to Yes, it does. It was a total treat those other two sing (Dolenz and the first time I listened to Michael sing Nesmith), getting to play in front of… the songs he sang back when in the did I mention adoring fans? Enjoying same voice he had, and Micky the scenery on the road, not having to remains one of the best pop singers of schlep my own gear… like that. all time, and it does take me back to the times we had together—pleasant What is your favorite song that memories indeed! you’ll be performing?

I expect it’ll be “Shades of Gray” this time, because I like the song a lot and it’ll be an addition to the set list this time out. My favorite Monkees hit has always been “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” and my favorite Monkees music overall has always been “Riu Chiu.”

Unlike your first round of concerts with screaming teens, you now have an adoring multigenerational fan base. Those original teens have grown up and introduced the Monkees to their kids and

18

Monkee Shines

By Becca Nelson

M

icky was, of course, busy touring with the boys for a month wowing audiences and getting rave reviews! I always enjoy hearing him do Randy Scouse Git and hearing "I'm heard I had a great time‌" but this time around we were treated to a clip from the British TV show that prompted the title of the song! And a very cool video hodgepodge of pop culture set the backdrop for the song perfectly! Micky's sister Coco joined the group on background vocals along with Circe Link and really added a lot to the songs- especially the slower ballad types. The guys all joined in on Daydream Believer this time around which was really something special and Micky finished up the song by doing a bit of Davy's famous dance and pointing to heaven- not a dry eye in the house!

classical actress. Sounds like a lot of fun!

This year's Rockers on Broadway benefit concert is set to be a salute to Micky Dolenz and other teen idols. Micky has performed in many Rockers on Broadway shows over it's 20- year history. This year's show will highlight songs and performances by your favorite teen idols of the past 50 years alongside Broadways finest! The show will be November 17 in New York and benefit The Broadway Dreams Foundation and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

Micky also participated in the Beads of Courage program during the toursporting a necklace designed to promote the program which helps children deal with chronic or long-term illnesses.

The children receive a strand of beads with their name and accumulate different beads for different steps in their treatment process as a way to encourage them and help them share their story.

Micky has been named lead in Mike Reiss' new play Comedy Is Hard! which will premiere Sept. 24 at The Ivoryton Playhouse in Ivoryton, Connecticut. The play is set in a home for retired actors and takes a playful look at the relationship and rivalry between a stand-up comedian and a

19

Monkee Shines

By Marie Gibson

H

appy Summer Nez fans!

Hope everyone had a fun, safe and happy Fourth of July!

he said was not included in the album download. “Listen to the Band” is free whether you buy the digital download or not. I provided the link here:

Well, it finally happened. Nez’s http://www.videoranch3d.com/mm5/ appearance in “Portlandia” officially merchant.mvc? aired on April 24th!

Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=1000 -100 The episode was titled “3D Printer” and Nez appeared as the father of the Nez hasn’t announced any other plans Mayor, played by Kyle MacLachlan as of yet, but I will be keeping my eye (whom you’ll remember as Agent out.

Cooper from “Twin Peaks”). Mr. Mayor introduced the cities new official 3D Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their Printer to the city, and from what I was summer. See you in the Fall! told, Carrie and Fred (Played by series stars Carrie Brownstein and former Love ya!

SNLer Fred Armisen) made a 3D copy of the Mayor, and apologized to his parents for being a jerk towards them.

A friend of mine downloaded the episode for me, but between schoolwork and fighting off a summer cold, I haven’t had much of a chance to watch it.

In other news, Nez announced on his Facebook page that he will be taking his “Movies of the Mind” tour to the UK in September. It runs from Sept. 20 through the 27th. The full schedule is available here: http://www.wyliemusic.co.uk Nez also announced that he made the “Movies of the Mind” download on his website for $9.99. He included a free download of “Listen to the Band” that

20

Monkee Shines

T

By Cindy Bryant he big news is that the cookbook is now available!

Written In Our Hearts is now on sale at CreateSpace (an Amazon Company) https://www.createspace.com/4647116 Use the discount code of - EYG38DKU - to get the lowest price for yourself while also providing The Davy Jones Equine Memorial Foundation with the best possible royalties!

Also available at: Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/gp/ product/0692221018

W

e are also supporting the Hope Rural School which is a Christian School for Immigrant children run by the nuns David loved so much and talked about on stage. Sister Aneta was his favorite and he sang to her at her birthday party just before he passed. Sadly, she has since passed too and the ‘Adopt A Class� program was started to honor her. We are honoring him by helping them..

Eventually you will be able to go to their web site and make a donation in honor of David through pay pal if you chose or of course, a check to Hope Rural School. For now we have a Scentsy

21

Monkee Shines fundraiser, thanks to Tina Howard. a long history of involvement with You can shop on her Scentsy web site helping children so I think doing this and 25% of your purchase will go to honors them all.

Hope Rural School. David’s family has

I

n June I participated in a Relay For Life event and raised $1180 for the American Cancer Society. I wore a tee shirt with the names of many we ad lost, as well as, people who had fought or were fighting the fight… they were my friends and family and my friends’ friends and family to honor them all.

Among those listed on my shirt were Peter Tork, Anitat Pollinger Jones, and

Ken Wilkinson.. I want to thank all of my Monkee friend’s who so generously supported me and donated to the American Cancer Society.

Congratulations Akiko!

I

n June we also raised $1049 for a good home! Congratulations! And David’s MS fund as well. Lynda thanks to everyone who generously Moore ( David’ sister ) thanked us donated to David’s MS fund! by giving us one of the out fits David wore on stage in the 80s to give away to a member of our facebook group. Everyone got a number and then Lynda, not knowing who had what number drew the winning number. The lucky number was 410.

Lynda picked that number for a special reason: D is the 4th letter in the alphabet and J is the 10th. Akiko Akeda and the suit is on it’s way to her now. We are both biting our nails until it arrives.

While the post office told me it would take a little more than 2 weeks, she has been told that it could take as much as 2 months for it to get through customs etc. in the meantime we have to wait patiently (or not) and pray the post office takes care of our precious package. I know Akiko will give the out

22

Monkee Shines

“Afterglow”

By Becca Nelson

A

fter the show in Cincinnati I found myself standing with my mom and good friend to the side of the stage wearing an ‘aftershow’ pass sticker on my shirt that seemed to glow with significance and hidden wonder. I asked my friend if I melted into a puddle on the floor would she please mind scooping me up and taking me home to which she graciously agreed. By a wild turn of events a day that started out exciting enough- going up to Cincinnati to meet a friend and see The Monkees- had spiraled into a million daydreams that had entertained my tiny little mind for years. We were going to meet the one and only- Nez.

eyes were as big as dinner plates as I sat down and tried, unsuccessfully I’m sure, to ‘play it cool.’

Once inside, we waited just inside the door while they got everyone shuffled around and ready for company. Then we were off again, down the hall past Micky in his dressing room and on to Nez’s room where we were nicely greeted with a smile and friendly hello

by Peter, exiting the room. We were shown in and given a place to sit and there sat Nez on a couch oppositerelaxing after the show. I’m sure my

Then followed the most surreal bit of the experience- we opened the door and walked out alongside Nez to the cheers of the line of fans waiting behind the fence to wave the guys off. My mom and I are usually out there, cheering and waving. And I realized suddenly that I was on the other side of the fence- walking with Nez. How did this happen?? We waved goodbye as he greeted the fans

We were introduced and he looked at us very intently. I got the feeling that he could read souls. For the rest of our time together he called us by name. I mostly listened to him chat with a few others in the room filling in my pieces when asked- always meeting those intense eyes. You can tell just from listening to him chat that he is incredibly intelligent and also very genuine and kind. You would expect most people in this situation to just glance at you and you’d be pretty sure they were thinking of what to eat for dinner but he really focuses on you So there I stood. Waiting. Where when he’s talking to you- makes you were we going?

What were we feel relevant and a bit less small. doing? Would I be required to string together coherent sentences when we After what could have been 30 got there? The nice guard…maybe he minutes or 3 hours, it was time to pack wouldn’t appreciate being called ‘the up the buses and head out so he nice guard’…the super intimidating followed us back down the hall to the and muscley guard motioned us on door where he shook hands with my and off we went, around the side of the mom and I and told us he was glad to stage and through the legendary, often meet us and happy that we could dreamt of, backstage door. come out and enjoy the show.

23

Monkee Shines with a big wave and I floated, dazedly, countless times to anyone who will wearing a goofy grin, through the stand still long enough for me to get fence to head back to the car. started. So here’s what I have to say to you my friends, keep daydreaming It was an extraordinary night for this and wishing and hoping because you ordinary little Monkees fan, one I will just- never- know! remember with a smile and recount

The Monkees Concert at

the "Hard Rock Live" at the "Rocksino" in Northfield, Ohio (near Cleveland) June 7, 2014

By Judith Hadlock

T

he "Rocksino" is a casino/ rock concert venue (or venues) in Northfield, Ohio, next to Northfield Park (which is a harness racing park) near Cleveland! The whole thing is quite a complex!!! It encompasses the "Hard Rock Cafe", three other restaurants, the casino (with more than 2000 different slot machines and games), a store called "The Rock Shop", TV screens to view various horse races, and incredible rock music memorabilia displayed!!!

The name of the venue where The Monkees played was called "Hard Rock Live" (inside the casino) - it's seating capacity was listed at 450!!! It looked like it was pretty well packed

for The Monkees concert!!! (My friend Amber and I were in Section B, 3rd row, right in front of the stage - so we had excellent seats - way to go Amber!!!).

They were selling Monkee T-shirts, Tour Books, mugs, hats, etc., just outside the "Hard Rock Live", so we headed for that first! I saw several friends there that I knew, and met some new "Monkee" friends while in line!

I was all decked out in my "Davy" Tshirt, Monkee and Davy buttons, "Davy" bracelet, and Davy's own horse-race watch!!! (Yes, it belonged to him!!!).

Amber too, had her "Monkee" T-shirt on!!! I saw a lot of

24

Monkee Shines different Monkee T-shirts on fans, from various concerts and time periods - most notably, some real "gems" from 1986 - (The Monkees 20th Anniversary Reunion, when all 4 Monkees were together again for 1 concert at the Greek Theatre in Calif. - their first time together in 20 years)!!! That was such a "special" Monkee Tour, in 1986, for all of us who remember it!!!

The back-up band consisted of Wayne Avers - guitar, backing vocals, and music direction; Dave Alexander keyboards, backing vocals, and backing vocal arrangements (these two guys played with Davy and Micky many times in past tours - it was nice to see them again!!!); Micky's sister Coco (Gemma), doing background vocals and percussion (so nice to see you Coco!!!); along with another lady, Circe Link, also doing backing vocals; John Billings - bass guitar; Rich Dart drums and percussion; Mike's son, Christian Nesmith - guitar and backing vocals; Jonathan Nesmith (Mike's 2nd son); video direction and editing (along with Susan Holloway); and Jessica Nesmith (Mike's lovely daughter), as the tour assistant!!!

of the "lesser known" songs from the first 4 albums, - "The Monkees"; "More Of The Monkees"; "Headquarters"; and "Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn, and Jones LTD."; songs from their movie "HEAD"; and a song from the 1969 TV Special - "33 1/3 Revolutions Per Monkee"!!!

Mike, Micky, and Peter looked and sounded Great!!! It was "Hard To Believe" that two of these guys are in their 70's!!! (Peter and Micky even did a bit of dancing!!!). Mike was wearing a red "Repo Man" T-shirt, black suit jacket, black trousers, and these silver glittery shoes!!! Micky was wearing a purple T-shirt that said "cook" on it, a suit jacket, trousers, and hat. Peter had on a red and orange shirt (Pete's fave colors) and brown trousers.

According to the tour book, Micky did vocals, percussion, drums, and acoustic guitar. Peter - vocals, keyboards, bass, banjo, guitar, and percussion. Mike - vocals, 6 & 12 string guitars, and keyboards.

The audience seemed very enthusiastic, and was a mix of younger and older fans, but predominately older (of course, since this was an "over 21" establishment!). It was wonderful to hear these songs from the albums "live", by those who sang them originally!!! (I had hoped, at first, that they would do more "Davy" songs but realized later, that it might not have been the "best" idea)!!!

During the encore, both Jonathan and Jessica came out, and played and sang too!!! Jessica played Mike's "Black Beauty" guitar - the one Mike played in "33 1/3 RPM"!!! (During the evening, Micky played the kettle drum on "Randy Scouse Git", as well as regular drums, - also the tambourine and maracas, Mike played his big Gretsch guitar, and Peter played the banjo, his They started out showing Mike and red bass guitar, and the keyboard on Davy's screen tests (Davy's, getting an "For Pete's Sake")!!! "awww" from the audience)!!! They also showed screen tests for some of What they did was sing and play some the other finalists in the Monkee audi25

Monkee Shines tions!!! " The Monkees Theme" started to play next, and for this song, they let the large video screen behind them do the talking - showing the opening segment of The Monkees TV Show (which, of course, had the audience cheering and clapping)!!! The songs that were done from the first album, "The Monkees" were - "Sweet Young Thing", "Papa Gene's Blues", and "Last Train To Clarksville"!!! "Papa Gene's Blues" -

and Mike; Mike singing his "comedy" version of "Different Drum"; the "To tell The Truth" bit, where Davy says, "I am standing up!"; Micky blowing up the coke machine in "HEAD"; Peter playing "Pietro" (a magician); Mike and Frank Zappa, where Mike's fake nose keeps falling off, etc. - all well-known, and well-loved bits to die -hard Monkee fans!!! They even showed a video clip from an English TV program, "Till Death Do Us Part", which finally showed us the origin of the song title, "Randy Scouse Git"!!! (If you remember, in England, the song "Randy Scouse Git" had to be released with a different title "Alternate Title", because of the negative meaning of that phrase in England!!!).

I cried through this one - it has a special significance for me - once, at a Davy concert, I was singing harmony to this as Davy was singing it on stage, and (as I was pretty close to the stage), Davy must have heard me, came over to where I was, and we sang it together - and it sounded pretty good!!! The The most notable video clip, had to be part that goes, "I love you, and I know Davy, singing and dancing to you love me...really got to me!!!

"Daddy's Song" in "HEAD" - they lowered the lights, and nothing else Davy memories!!! It seemed like al- was going on in front of the screen most every song had a memory with just the video clip!!! It was a wonderDavy attached to it - I cried a lot ful and moving tribute - and of course, throughout the entire concert!!! I had I cried through that as well!!! (So did never felt the loss of Davy so keenly a lot of other people!!!). Oddly as at this concert!!! The concert was enough, the "Daddy's Song" video clip Great - the guys were Great!!! It was was from the movie, "HEAD", but the me!!! (I hope I didn't put too much of sound that went with it, was a bit difa damper on things for you Amber)!!! ferent than what was in the movie!!! (The hesitations when Davy All throughout the concert, they were sings - "The years have passed...and showing video clips on the giant so have I" and "If and when...I have a screen behind them!!! Several times, I son...") were not there. I don't know if saw Micky and Peter watching them- this was edited that way or not selves on the screen, and smil- (maybe it was - just to help us all get ing!!! They showed clips from "The through it in one piece!!!). Or - perMonkees" TV episodes, "HEAD", and haps it was a different version of the "33 1/3 RPM"!!! They showed some recorded soundtrack - I don't of the "funniest" bits from The Mon- know!!! But it was different!!! kees TV Shows, such as - the "Texas Prairie Chicken" outtakes, with Micky Songs played and sung from the 2nd 26

Monkee Shines album, "More Of The Monkees", included - "Mary, Mary", "She", "Your Auntie Grizelda", "Steppin' Stone", "The Kind Of Girl I Could Love", and "I'm A Believer"!!! On "I'm A Believer", Micky looked at me - and pointed to me, when he sang, "Then I saw her face...!" That was so sweet!!! Awesome!!! "Thank You" Micky!!! (I think he may have recognized/ remembered me)!!! I also felt that this was my sign from Davy - through Micky - that he was there, in "Spirit"!!! As Davy would put it, - "It cheered me up a couple of notches!!!!" Thank you Micky AND David!!!

Songs from the 3rd album, "Headquarters", included - "You Told Me", "You Just May Be The One", "Shades Of Gray" - which had the whole audience in tears! - Peter sang Davy's part, since his voice is closest to Davy's in tone - (Amber and I were both crying on this one!!), "For Pete's Sake", "Sunny Girlfriend", "No Time", and "Randy Scouse Git"!!!

Songs from the 4th album, "Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn, and Jones LTD." that were sung, were - "The Door Into Summer", "Words", "What Am I Doing Hangin' Round?", and "Pleasant Valley Sunday"!!!

Micky also sang "Goin' Down", and the last song of the evening, was "Daydream Believer" - which is sung

by Micky and Peter on the 1st verse, us (the audience) on the second verse, and Mike, on the third verse. This, of course, was also very touching and moving, with everyone's cell phones waving and flickering in the dark!!! Of course, many people were crying during this too - (me included!!!).

At the end, during the final bow, Micky looked up (to Davy, in heaven) as if to say, "Miss you buddy - wish you were here with us!" Or maybe, "This is for you, Davy!" All-in-all, it was a wonderful evening, with a lot of bittersweet emotions, and good memories, both past and present!!!

Great concert guys!!! Go Monkees!!! I want to say "Thank You" to Micky, Peter, and Mike for your Davy Jones tributes during the tour, with "Daddy's Song" and "Daydream Believer", and the page in the 2014 Monkee Tour Book - "Thank You" for honoring and remembering Davy!!! I, for one, appreciate it immensely!!! And "Thank You" Amber!!!

Songs from their movie "HEAD" included - "Porpoise Song", "Circle Sky", "Can You Dig It?", "As We Go Along", "Daddy's Song", and "Do I Have To Do This All Over Again?"!!! And from "33 1/3 RPM" "Listen To The Band"!!! (Which was also sung again, when everyone came back onto the stage, during the encore!!!).

27

Monkee Shines

Monkees Tour 2014 Kansas City, MO, June 4, 2014 and St. Louis, MO, June 5, 2014

By Erin Jacobs All photos in this article are courtesy of Erin Jacobs

Prologue It has been a while I have written anything not sciencey in a while. So forgive me as I am rusty. I need some oil in the Land of Oz to get moving again. Incidentally, doesn’t that make anyone wonder the Baum was thinking of the Land Down Under (yes, the Men at Work song entered my head too) when writing that iconic book?

Hmmmm…

Michael “artist formerly known as wool hat” Nesmith Micky “artist formerly known as Corky” Dolenz Peter “artist formerly known as… ummm…Jedidiah Lawrence from ‘Boy Meets World’” Tork (Yes, I am aware that was a stretch.)

Our story begins back in March or so.

It was two weeks before the Monkees convention where a miracle happened.

My resume got a nibble after 7 grueling years of temp gigs and 4 grueling years of finding myself. As you all may know (or not really care really) I decided to not become a health profes-

28

Monkee Shines

sional after all. I just wanted to get back into science lab work. So I gave the job hunt one last push while finding out I am wired differently with something called Asperger's. I have not been officially diagnosed, but now we know why my socialness is very awkward unless I know the people enough to anticipate. It kind of sucks anyway. At the same time it fueled by so called gifts in science and appreciation of music.

I started up the job hunt again and got an interview back in my stomping grounds of Missouri. So within a week of the job offer I packed up and moved back to the Midwest after pining for it for so long. Nothing against California, but it is not my comfort zone. I believe it was about 5 days after I flew into Kansas City that the tour announcement happened. Being in Missouri, I had hoped for one Missouri date in KC or St. Louis. Never had I imagined it would be both. The catch is it was midweek, but I am smack dab in the middle of the state.

So I decided to swing it.

At Kinkos, the impossible happened. Lightening had struck twice. My last show in Long Beach I was front row.

Again, I somehow got front row again. Then by chance I heard of the presale on Facebook for St. Louis. There I got 3rd row Pit. Crazy. It was just crazy. I literally went from lamenting I missed my chance at seeing the guys to seeing them from pretty good seats all 6 times since 2012. I hope that does not seem like bragging. The past several years were sheer hell. To start out my new chapter with a couple shows was relief if you will.

Kansas City‌Kansas City here I come‌ Flash forward to June. My job has been going ok. I am loving being back with science. I openly wept the first day I stepped back in the lab before going to my cube to review data. It just was a victory that was a long time coming. I was back in Missouri with a job I loved again that used my actual original education!

It was a wild week. On Wednesday, I came in early at 7 am or so. Put in a full day work, and left for my old stomping grounds of KC. How I missed what I consider my 2nd hometown (the first being my actual hometown in Wisconsin). As I drove I70, I was hauling because I could leave around 4 or so. Showtime was 7 and it was a 2 hour drive. Do the math how tight this was. So when there was The week or so before my work start- a big wreck on I70, imagine my anxieed I went to a Kinkos and finally en- ty as the road was shut for 10 minutes. tered the 21st century with an iPhone. Joy! Needless to say, the accident did 29

Monkee Shines not stop me.

Have Happened” so I did not need to get that awesome CD. I hope many The fun part was going into KC were sold. though. Normally I know to take I35 because this was how I got to Uptown In the process I was walking to the back in the day to see 1964 and Ruben house when I saw my partner in crime Studdard (not together, but imagine Sara. We have been online friends via THAT show! ) Mapquest must have a the PT Facebook page for about 2 group that has fun taking folks on years now. So meeting face to face scary routes. I winded through a was incredible. Same went for her neighborhood that reminded me of daughter, mother, and Cheryl. It Flint, MI or Long Beach. (BTW, I still helped being with a friend as concerts lack a hubcap from that concert for are not easy for me. I get really anxSSB last year. My car is ghetto fabu- ious at times in crowds. So it was lous!) I locked my doors and all that good to be next to my friend in the jazz. Though imagine if I was car- front row. jacked. Though the guys have awesome music, I do not think gangstas *Finally Showtime* are into “Gonna Buy Me A Dog.” Though imagine if the song was With iPhone new “toy” on hand, I “Gonna Buy Me a Dawg (Word!).” actually was able to snap good picHmmmm… I digress… tures this time. Granted t was probably annoying. I send an apology for that.

Nervous, grateful to not be shot up, I Plus I am sure someone prettier than finally made it to the Uptown with 30 me (like a model) would have suited minutes to spare (or strike) at the free this close seat better, but at least Sara parking. I noted busses as I scurried was there since she is pretty and all. tot the front door. I did not want to gape for fear of being one of those I liked the fact the preshow music was scary fans that do that kind of thing. eclectic. I like Monkee tines, but difNot that fans that hang by the busses ferent stuff (which I noticed less in are scary, but it is my fear of being KC due to meeting up with friends) some sort of weird scary fan. Rest was refreshing. Hearing a Circe Link assured I am as boring as they get. cover of “Crazy in Love” was kinda It was a different vibe than from Cali shows for sure. I forgot what it was like to be surrounded by mostly average people. It was so nice. Every person that bumped into me apologized. It was kind of nice as I purchased a tour shirt, program, and (finally!) BB Kings CD for Micky’s music. I already had a copy of “Stranger Things 30

Monkee Shines cool.

When the auditions were shown on the screen, I thought that was such a nice touch. The sad thing is I have seen that a few times now on youtube. So I knew the words. It was cool seeing it on a big screen though.

Next thing I knew the theme was on and there were the guys after Jessica’s great intro. Here we go again for sure…

1) Last Train to Clarksville – it was pretty great hearing this again live. I nudged Sara showing her that Nez had his sparkly shoes again. I remember starting at 3 pairs of feet. I liked it though.

2) Papa Gene’s Blues – I do not remember if there was much banter here or not before this song. I think this was when one of the guys introed Mike as “wool hat.” I was sooooooo tired that everything was sort of dreamlike. I do remember the music itself was awesome.

3) Your Auntie Grizelda – OK, I am going to be looked down for this, but it seems it is polarized anyway. I do not like this song. I do not like it on a bus.

I do not like it with muss. I will not

like it with a hat. I will not sing it with my cat… etc.) I do have to say Peter performs the heck out of it in a good way. It is very vibrant and fun, but I just cannot get myself to like the song.

The performance was great though.

4) The Kind of Girl I Could Love - I love this song and the slide guitar on this was divine. I loved it.

5) She – I love this song too much.

Hehe I did my best heys and all that.

The cute part was after Peter coaxing the heys with arms in the air he did this (sorry if this is crazy to notice) little nose twitch thing. Hard to explain. It (on of the times I had the courage to look up) was really cute.

6) Sweet Young Thing – I still love how this song is showed and feels like a song you would hear on a lush green mountainside at dawn with the fog rising. Love it.

7) I’m A Believer – Micky seemed lower energy this go at it. I was pleased, however, that at long last the “Shrek” joke was dropped. It was funny the first million times though.

8) (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone – Once again this was lower key. It was still fun, but I am comparing I think to Long Beach. That is a high bar to hit.

9) You Told Me – It appeared to me that the mix was slightly off. I do not know if it was, but it was annoying. The song still was ok, but something was off.

10) Sunny Girlfriend – I love this McCartney-like song.

Good stuff.

11) You Just May Be The One – With minimal banter up to this point, the guys artfully got through this song.

12) Mary Mary – The guys were great on this song as well.

The dueling drummer thing

31

Monkee Shines with Micky and the drummer (Rich? I think that is his name, right?) was fun.

13) The Girl I knew Somewhere – This song always is fun. From where I was it sounded like the keys had a very low sound level.

I was irritated at the mix here and I know it was not the guys doing this.

14) Shades of Gray – The addition to the set list was really nice.

It was like seeing two army buddies lamenting a loss of their buddy. If I remember right, Nez was on a stool sort of leaning back playing his part like a cowboy.

15) Randy Scouse Git – I thought the addition of the clip was fun. They showed the clip where the guy says the title. Micky went through the song and energy just did not seem high.

(Incidentally there was a gut a couple seats down sleeping. This is while there was a pretty well filled house that would have taken that spot.

16) For Pete’s Sake – Finally, we had some banter. Granted just music was great. I thought that was a nice approach. Though banter is fun too. For example when I see REO Speedwagon part of the fun is Kevin Cronin giving his yarns about life on the road.

It started with Peter controlling the applause. That was funny. Then he goes into this observation about “She” about this due that was doing nothing.

When he got the dude to do the “Hey” thing he lifted his cane. So the older dude in that audience whatever city it was is a ninja too. Cool beans.

I really liked the performance. It was sort of low key. It made me wonder if the guys were just worn out from all the touring.

17) No Time – Since energy was low,

the banter came easy saying it will be a low key show. Nez goes, “It is nap time…” They then finally woke up!

The song rocked as the guys seemed to have gotten a second wind! The best part was Mike’s verse where he mumbles and then goes, “THIS VERSE IS MINE!!!!” I laughed so hard. : ) There was a video in here I think of the guys in many languages. It was too funny hearing that. There were also some silly clips like the funny “Save the Texas Prairie” chicken classic.

(Say, that is a groovy pin…) : ) 18) Door Into Summer – The energy kept up as we went into this song. I missed Aviva’s piccolo on this, but it still was great. Nez performs it sort of like Mike Noffler of Dire Straits. (I think that is the lead singer’s name.)

19) Words – I was stoked when this song came up. I just know I liked it.

20) Tapioca Tundra – The guys did the usual silly intro for this, but something really struck me funny. I wish I could remember what it was. Oh well…

Cowbell FTW of course.

21) Goin’ Down – Micky nailed this as usual. An audience member nailed her bit. It was fun. It was fun seeing Peter jump and dance so much too.

22) Porpoise Song – I loved how mellow and psychedelic this always it. It

32

Monkee Shines cool reggae beat. It was nice.

Micky even did a Davy dance.

The guys then exited as people finally got on their feet.

When the guys returned for the encore, my favorite line of the night happened. Peter goes, “All rise for the national anthem…just kidding.” I giggled. Then he mimes playing a guitar like Henwas great. drix doing the anthem. I laughed so 23) Can You Dig It? – The intro to hard I sat down for a sec. hehe “Head” stuff had a trailer. Only Victor Mature’s hairdresser knows the mean- 29) Listen to the Band (Encore) – This ing of that movie. I guess they all was fun and hearing the band intros know lots of info… Peter was awe- was fun. some on this. Unlike a certain critic, 30) Pleasant Valley Sunday (encore) – yes, I can dig it. (Yes, I was mad at This last song was sad, but it was fun that review.) too. A mother and two little kids 24) Circle Sky – I love this song but crouched in front of us and Peter sees energy was again sort of low. I like the the kids. He waved at the kids with a guitar styling that sort of sounds like smile. Then at one point he does a The Smiths “This Is Now” riff. mock pout with his arms crossed. It 25) As We Go Along – I was surpris- was so cute. The mother had DJEMF ingly stoic for this one. I actually ap- stuff on so maybe she was affiliated preciated the beauty and the grace of with that. the song. I loved how Micky bows and the Peter bows to Micky and Mike The guys did their bows. Now the surbows to Peter (or whatever the order real moment happened. I was told Pewas). Classy. ter might have waved at me. I am unI think the clip of “Daddy’s Song” sure because I am thinking it HAD to played here. We all miss him. have been someone behind me. Oh 26) Long Title: Do I Have To Do This well. Delusion is fun. In a flash, the All Over Again? – This felt a little show was over. lower energy, but still was good.

27) What Am I Doing’ Hangin’ It was fun albeit a little scary being ’Round? – Again this was lower ener- front row. There was a strange mogy. I still loved it. ment where a fan came up to Sara, 28) Daydream Believer – This was Cheryl, and me with a Nez CD like great. Peter and Micky dueted. Then Gollum with his ring. That was Mike sings his line about the stead like weird… a real cowboy country style. Loved that. The sing along had lights from So us Torkee fans met up at a Stariphones in the audience and a pretty bucks afterwards. There is a district 33

Monkee Shines called the Country Club Plaza and I got lost getting there. I love KC, but the roads are like they are on crack though.

Part 2 “Meet Me In St. Louis” St. Louis, MO – Monkees Peter Tork, Michael Nesmith, and Micky Dolenz

After getting some talk and caffeine, I trekked home after getting lost again.

Seeing a limo I prayed that was not any of the guys. If it was, I was not following. I was trying to find the interstate. I passed downtown which has totally revitalized. I was amazed at the difference from 2006. Wow. Way to go KC. I also passed by Kauffman Stadium where I saw couples of people at that baseball game. The Royals are…ummmm…let me put it this way.

The Cubs have a better shot at the World Series.

June 5, 2014

Blasting BB Kings to stay awake, I got home at 1 am, went to bed and got up at 6 am to do it again. It was a short sleep, but it was a quality sleep. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++ For now, I will let you get an icy beverage of your choosing. This is intermission. Part 2, which is more exciting actually, will be up shortly…

So as the one person with baited breath waited, I will give them a cookie for their patience. I am fully aware this may be seen as crazy that I do recaps, but I do them to just give those that have not been able to see a show this time to hopefully experience it somehow.

Anyway, after going to bed around 2 am, I got up at 6am Thursday to put in a full days work. This actually was less brutal than when I did something similar last year with the LA shows and working at the fair. I actually was fine until I hit the proverbial wall around 3 PM. That lead to the sad realization I am no longer in my 20s when I was able to do this.

Though St. Louis is better than SoCal, I much prefer KC. I am so grateful to be back in Missouri, but Kansas City is still the land I love the most. St. Louis is ok though. The drive was a lot prettier and exciting. I drove through a section of St. Louis where I might have ended up back in 2007 instead of SoCal, and my mind did wander what if I had taken the Missouri job instead of Cali. How would I be different now? Would have I even stumbled on “Riu Chiu” then? Would I have an as grateful heart to even have work in my

34

Monkee Shines field again? I guess the important thing is no matter how much I loathed the dark side of SoCal, it molded me into who I am today. That said (sorry for being so serious there…), I headed to St. Louis.

that none of them know who I am really. It sort of makes the experience purer for some reason for me.

Anyway, they let us in as my ears echoed the sounds of an organ and my mouth hit the deep red carpet. This place a GORGEOUS! There was so much ornate art and class. Yeah, I think that is the ultimate way to characterize this place. It was classy down to the volunteer ushers in their garb.

Traffic was good though I heard on the radio all the other routes had traffic issues. I also heard that morning a naked man was blocking traffic on some main drag in St. Louis. Never a dull moment. I swear I heard “Roar”

by Katie Perry and “Perfect” by P!nk I meandered in awe to my 3rd row pit a million times on the way too. seat I had gotten by a stroke of luck on a presale that I have no idea how I was Once on the street to get to the Fox, it lead to it. It was at the end of the row was pretty easy. My parking did not by Mr. Nesmith’s side of the stage. I cost much as the attendant was a nice felt more at ease not being right in older gentleman that seemed to be front of the guys for sure. Front row is accustomed to the rhythm of life by fun, but I felt so exposed. Plus I knew the Fox Theatre. He was a nice bloke. eye contact and whatnot is probably That entire swath of St. Louis was for rows behind me (as they are in 3rd decent. I even saw a “Wool Institute” row as well). The couple in front of where in my increasingly slap happy me were there for a birthday surprise. fatigue my first thought was “Wool The woman was told she was going to Hat.” see her first Monkee show after growing up enamored with Micky. Her As I passed by the mayhem by the surprise was palpable as her husband parked busses without stopping I made her a 2nd row ticket. The 2 very smiled a tired smile. It was bittersweet pretty girls next to me had flown in that this may be it for the concerts from Cali. They seemed nice enough, with the guys. I am so grateful to have been able to attend 6 shows since 2012 with uncanny ticket luck. You have no idea how much it has gotten me through some really dark times the past couple years.

Not that the music of this troupe is all my life, but it was a place to bunker into once in a while to just escape somewhere, anywhere. Plus I am cognizant 35

Monkee Shines but I did share I was not a fan of there where they told me they were originally from Pennsylvania. So it was all good.

As I waited for the show, I took my first selfie with my iPhone. The music was cool. It made it seem nicer that it was not totally Monkee tunes. I like Monkee music, but hearing Annie Lennox “Why,” Bad Company “Feel Like Making Love” and covers of Monkee songs was kind of nice. Before the guys hit the stage there was a neat banjo song playing that I liked.

Never in a million years would have I had thought I would respect the banjo.

Go fig.

One last thing has to be shared. I was having a panic attack. See there was a burly security dude right in front of my section. Of course I assume (you know what happens when we assume…) it was me being scary. I really did not want to be one of those scary fans. He was a nice guy though.

He joked with us all, and he allowed me to take iPhone pictures and videos.

(All phones and vids are NOT for any profit. They are for enjoyment for people not able to go to the show.) I still hope I am not scary. : / **showtime** At long last the audition videos played. I may be a sick woman, but he box boy at Forrest Lawn joke cracks me up every time. : ) Then they were on the stage…

1) Last Train to Clarksville – It had so much energy. I thought it was great as it was easier to look up this time.

2) Papa Gene’s Blues – I think they

announce each other here. Again there was a naming Mr. Nesmith as “wool hat” again. Quick tangent… The whole Wool Hat gimmick was one factor that kept me from getting the music. I just wanted to share that.

3) Your Auntie Grizelda – OK, I still loathe the song. Even if Peter wore his speedo and addressed me in the parrot part in an alternate universe I still would not like it. The performance was great though. It is that song…

4) The Kind of Girl I Could Love – Slide guitar from Peter rocked. Mr. Nesmith does some cool vocals. I think I may even given it a standing o.

5) She – I lover this song. Peter did the usual “Heys” thing as the girls next to me really got into the spirit as well. We all were on our feet after.

6) Sweet Young Thing – The arrangement is so amazing. I love the slow powerfulness of it. This is one I surprisingly never tire of. This got a standing o as I wonder why more folks did not do the same.

7) I’m A Believer – There was so much more energy this time. Micky rocked it. Plus no Shrek joke. Yay. 8) (I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone – Same energy. Micky rocked it.

9) You Told Me – The show continued on. It was great. The Fox provided a fabulous mix.

10) Sunny Girlfriend – This was again McCartney like goodness. The place was in much better tune.

11) You Just May Be The One – I was loving it at this point. The music kept flowing as this was incredible.

12) Mary Mary – Micky adeptly played his drums as the guys played this great song.

13) The Girl I knew Somewhere – I was glad to actually be able to hear the keyboard solo. The song was played

36

Monkee Shines well.

14) Shades of Gray – This song seemed lighter this time. During the title lyrics Micky did the pointing to Peter’s hair joke. : ) That made me smile.

15) Randy Scouse Git – Again I loved the British clip before. Micky nailed the song. Love this song.

16) For Pete’s Sake – Before this song Peter talked about how the guys were scorned about not being the Beatles. I still think that was so unfair because it truly is apples and oranges. Both have great music. Peter rocked it for this at St. Louis. Mike was silly during his intro for naming stuff.

17) No Time – The intro is cute. They talk about being serious and launch into this. The most shocking park? Mr. Nesmith did his verse straight pretty much like the record I think. I was so stunned my mouth was agape. : ) Pretty funny to be funny not being funny.

(Say that 10 times fast.)

18) Door Into Summer – The guys were having a very on night as this song was done very well. I like the vocal style Mr. Nesmith does this song.

19) Words – I LOVE this song and was happy to finally hear the trippy keys solo with the right synth setting.

Great stuff.

20) Tapioca Tundra – The intro was usual and not super silly. What caught me off guard was the lyrics were on the screen! When I looked at my KC video I saw it was just the logo. I was cracking up that there were the lyrics.

I always tried to sing the lyrics, but I did not know until then. : ) It almost looked like a surprise to the other guys.

21) Goin’ Down – Micky rocked it.

He showed so much energy.

22) Porpoise Song – OK, this is where I looked like an idiot. I started to cry during this song. My brain wandered to the guys getting up in age. I also thought about how I have so much more work to be a happy person. Part of the battle was getting back to the Midwest. There is still more to do before I am happy with me as a person. Hence the tears. (Though no biggie since others were tearing up to I hear.) I was also tired so maybe that was part of it.

23) Can You Dig It? – I tried to enjoy this, but my mood was down now.

Peter did awesome though.

24) Circle Sky – I was distracted with my own sadness, but this song was great. I love the guitar thing that is sort of a wah wah thing. Hard to explain it in words what it is.

25) As We Go Along – Again my tears came. I was just really sad at this point. This song is always pretty and the bows to each other is always so classy.

Daddy’s Song video was bittersweet. I love the song and wish I got it before he left.

26) Long Title: Do I Have To Do This All Over Again? – I tried to rock with the song. I just was not very happy at this time. I wish I was. The funny part was as the guru speech ended, I saw Mike throw his arms in the air like “WTF man?” in the direction of the projection. Lol That was funny.

27) What Am I Doing’ Hangin’ ’Round? – I always dig this song. I was almost snapping out of it.

28) Daydream Believer – It was beautiful. The duet of Tork and Dolenz was nice. Mr. Nesmith sings his stead line in such an appropriate country twang. There was a scary fan that walked to the stage with a picture.

37

Monkee Shines They were escorted quickly. My eyes grew huge with how freaky that was.

The guys left the stage and came back.

29) Listen to the Band (Encore) – It was good with intros. It was very bittersweet for me.

30) Pleasant Valley Sunday (encore) – I always love this song. It always is a treat to hear it.

So with that, I walked out of the venue after the guys left the stage. I walked past the busses and went directly home. The drive was very clear aside from a traffic jam on a bridge. Tears did flow from my eyes as this was it. I am grateful, but it was sad all it once.

I got home about 1 am and went to bed to get up at 6:30 am for a full day of work. Saturday and most of Sunday I just slept. It was exhausting but worth it.

So there you have it. Is this my last time seeing any of the guys perform in person? Who knows? The part that I am grateful for is I got a chance to experience it.

Anyway, for the one and a half people that made it this far (the half person is actually one of the “Twilight” kids… whaddup!) I thank you for reading. It probably is not one of the most exciting recaps I have written, but I did it.

For the guys that will never read this ever, butterflies, peace, and stay awesome.

(Be sure to stay in school, say no to drugs, and never run with scissors!

Only you can prevent forest (not Gump)fires.)

38

Monkee Shines

Ken Thorne earned an Oscar for "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum."

Oscar-Winning Composer Ken Thorne Dies at 90 Oscar-winning composer Ken Thorne died July 8, 2014 according to the funeral home handling his final arrangements. He was 90.

by Aaron Couch

He took home an Academy Award for scoring "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and earned a Grammy nomination for The Beatles' "Help!"

1995 CBS TV movie A Season Of Hope.

Thorne won an Oscar for scoring the 1966 musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and earned a Grammy nomination for writing the incidental score to the 1965 Beatles film Help! He went on to receive an Emmy nomination for the

For the Superman films, he showed talent for rearrangement when he took John Williams' iconic score and made it his own.

Thorne was born in England and lived in West Hills, Calif. He began playing piano at age five and was a professional musician by 15. His other credits include Superman II and Superman III, and The Monkees' comedy Head.

Thorne is survived by his wife, Linda, and twin daughters Emily and Claire.

39

Monkee Shines Taken from Vintage Vinyl Music:

Mike Nesmith Cancels U.K. Tour Michael Nesmith has been forced to cancel his September U.K tour, although he has not detailed the reason for the action.

Nesmith had seven dates schedule in the British Isles including a London date at the 02 Shepherd's Bush Empire on September 21. In a note on his Facebook page, Michael simply said that there were "recent snags that were too difficult to overcome" and that there were "privacy issues I need to honor" in giving any further detail.

Nesmith's full statement: Sad to announce the UK tour is cancelled.

In putting it all together we ran into some recent snags that were too difficult to overcome or to reconcile, so I made the decision to withdraw sooner rather than later so everyone would have time to rearrange schedules, and get their ticket money back from the promoter(s) there.

point where there was no other decision open to me but to cancel.

I am very unhappy about it all, and I was really looking forward to coming. The 2012 tour was so much fun, the band had all made plans to bring the families, and it was shaping up to be a pretty good time. But at this last moment things fell apart in a way that was unrecoverable, so it was time to call retreat.

You all have my undying affection and gratitude for your support, and for the very early and brisk sales of the tickets, but this tour was not shaping up in a way that would work. I am so disappointed about it I can hardly write all this.

The redeeming fact of your support and encouragement gives me solace and you all have my heartfelt apologies for not being there with you.

Even as I write I am examining other avenues for putting a later UK/Euro tour together and am optimistic something will come together. At this point I can't say when.

I am fine, family is fine, health is good, and I am busy and active. No worries about that, please.

The detailed reasons for the cancellation are too complex and intertwined with privacy issues I need to honor, so I can't get into the nitty gritty.

Things finally came down to a

But I am hard at work on it.

40

Monkee Shines

SHE SAID/SHE SAID THE FINAL CHAPTER (Well, only on paper) Dawn Hoffman, Colleen Johnson Bonnie Borgh, Cindy Bryant, DAWN HOFFMAN: The last paper issue of Monkee Shines. Wow. I would say that it hardly seems possible, but what hardly seems possible is the unbelievable amount of time, love and dedication that Cindy Bryant has put into this crazy little Purple Flower Gang Fan Club. Thank you mama Cindy. I wanted to write something for the last issue but have had no new experiences to comment on. Thankfully I have many, many memories to pull from. I didn’t want to do this alone so I thought we could do a pass along story where one of us writes something and the others chime in and share their thoughts on the same incident.

CINDY BRYANT: We’ve come a long way baby but it was a group effort even if some of us dropped out from time to time for a while. As John Lennon said: ”Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.” The memories would not be as sweet without all of you. It wouldn't have been as much fun.

DAWN: My first Monkee encounter was at the World of Wheels Car Show in Chicago, IL. It was there that the seeds were planted for the Purple Flowers.

CINDY: Some out of the place where apparently everybody goes.

BONNIE: Do you know how hard it is to find purple flowers? I am sorry I missed that scene. I am also deeply sorry that I missed that cold August 1971 RKO Orpheum Theatre scene.

However, good things come to those who wait.

CINDY: I wish you had been there to help me remember every single moment. But, things happen when they are meant to happen and thank God we all did meet when we did!

DAWN: Micky was there along with the Monkeemobile and it was the height of Monkeemania 20 year reunion. I was 17 years old and not experiBONNIE BORGH: My sincere apolo- enced driving in the city. Not very exgies, Dawn. I clearly did not read your perienced driving anywhere for that opening address very carefully. Me matter. and my big mouth just went ahead and wrote my own (not even very original BONNIE: In 1987, I had ten years on title) Last Paper Article July 2014 you, Dawn, and I was not very expericontribution. I honestly thought you enced driving in the cities (plural) eiwrote such a lovely piece that I really ther. Maybe that’s what Jimi Hendrix didn’t need my add my two cents’ meant by his “Are You Experienced” worth. However, since my arm was album. Imagine that; wrong group twisted (What is a medieval rack?) I (same tour, though). thought: “One more for the road.”

41

Monkee Shines DAWN: My Aunt Patti and Uncle Bob had graciously driven me to my first Monkees concert back in August of 1986 so I went to them again for help. Lucky for me, they are AWESOME and said yes. Uncle Bobby is a big car nut, so that helped. Anyway, when I got there I got in line and sent them off to look at cars. I was focused on a Monkee.

gether for the weekend and all stay in one, cheap ol’ motel room. We had VCR’s back then and we would rent extra VCR’s to attach together to tape from each other, episodes, commercials, guest appearances and whatever Monkee stuff we could get ahold of.

I stayed up all night long to get everything I wanted on a tape (or ten). Everything we did or said had some kind of Monkees connection. What a crazy BONNIE: We all have our loved ones, time. We would spend our days at the you know. local mall searching for Monkee treasures. We went to flea markets and DAWN: In line I met some other crazy antique stores constantly on the lookpeople. I had no idea that there were out. so many of “me” out there.

BONNIE: I always say, “One man’s BONNIE: Now do you see why I ini- trash is another man’s treasure.” tially wanted to keep my big mouth shut? I can’t help myself; I interrupt. CINDY: Those were really good times, What I was going to say is that I know Dawn, and relatively simple. It might what you mean. When I went to my have seemed strange for a 32 year old first Monkees’ concert (June 20, 1986), to spend time with these 17 year old there were 22,000 people there. I girls but it was just a simple love for thought I was the only Monkees’ fan the Monkees and wanting to share it left. Plus, I seriously couldn’t believe with this new generation of fans, I realthere were Micky, Peter, and Mike ly enjoyed dragging you all around to fans, too. I thought everybody liked concerts in the Midwest and even a Davy. few other places. I was working 2 jobs, sometimes 16 hours a day to be able DAWN: It was finally my time and I got to afford to run all over the country on up to meet Micky. Honestly, I don’t the weekends. Never slept. Ate in the remember at all what he said. I car. Ah to be young again. snapped a few photos and off I went. I could leave. I stood frozen staring at DAWN: I loved that time together earhim. Then I realized I was frozen there ly on in our Purple Flower Gang days. with others taking in every glimpse of 1987 brought a summer of fun and this Monkee-man we all love. I met a concerts. We went to Poplar Creek in group of people that day that would July of 1987 for a show. I remember change my life forever. being so excited when we got there to the gate before it opened. I rememA second story that makes me laugh bered some lady wearing a green Midoesn’t really have anything to do with chael Nesmith hat... an actual Monkee. Just us fans. Cindy and Laura drove out from Iowa and we BONNIE: That would be me! all met in Alsip, IL at the Budgeteer Inn. Now how I remember that when I DAWN:...remembering us from earlier can’t remember to get my kids to their in the day from Davy’s book signing at practices or games on time, I don’t Walden Books at Woodfield Mall in know…. But I do. We would get to- Schaumburg, Illinois. Oh how could I

42

Monkee Shines forget that part?

DAWN: There was a show somewhere nearby in Illinois. I wasn’t able to go, but I was able to meet up with the old “gang” and Bonnie’s daughter Hannah and my daughter Emily met.

BONNIE: I know! I know! Monkees are ze craziest peoples! It was July, and I was wearing a green wool (Monkees’) hat. Mind you, I am an original Monkees’ fan, but David will always be my favorite. Why was I BONNIE: I’m a Believer that was at wearing the Nesmith signature hat?

Moraine Valley College in Palos Hills, Illinois on January 27, 2001.

DAWN: We were up…

DAWN: I was back. Looking at picBONNIE: It’s always been up. tures, laughing about old stories and just being together sparked a flame DAWN:...“sometime in the morning” that wanted to burn again. While I was very early to arrive at the mall to wait away from the action, Cindy and Bonin line. I don’t remember if we were nie had faithfully kept the Purple Flowfirst, but we were one of the first. I er Gang going. They recruited some remember waiting and singing and a new road crew friends and everyone security man coming up to us telling us welcomed me back so kindly. I think to knock it off or he would kick us out. my first show back was at the Star Whoops. Not everyone appreciated Plaza in Indiana. I had hoped to stay our rendition of “Girl”. I can still see overnight and be a part of the whole Davy walking by me through the road trip thing again, but my daughter bookstore to get to where he would was ill and just getting away for me sign the autographs. We got to “hang was tough. Daddy was home to take out” not too long after that. Again, it care of her, but she was little and I was a brief moment. I snapped a few was a new mom. pictures...

COLLEEN JOHNSON: Hey Dawn BONNIE: I hope you didn’t flash! this was the first time I met you. The show was David, Peter and Micky miDAWN:...shared the purple flowers my nus Mike. I sure wish my paths had grandma had knitted for him, got his crossed earlier with you, Cindy and autograph and moved on. OH MY Bonnie.

GOSH. I MET DAVY JONES. DAWN: After that Davy shows popped BONNIE: And our lives were never up here and there quite often and I the same again. was on the road again with some old friends and new friends. One of my DAWN: I took a break from Monkee- favorite shows had to be Cindy’s reing around in my early 20’s until I was tirement party show. Fun was in the air 30. At that point, I was married and that day. A Monkees’ slot machine on had a baby girl. Bonnie had a baby girl the floor and lots of laughing. too and she, Cindy and I all reconnected.

BONNIE: I would love to have one of those Monkees’ slot machines in our BONNIE: Can you believe our daugh- house. It might actually make us more ters (both girls) are like three months money than a savings’ account. apart in age?

DAWN: Davy was in rare form that

43

Monkee Shines night. His stories, songs and laughing were unstoppable. This is where I took the picture of him sticking his tongue out at me, well all of us.

Capli, Eddie Brick and Charlie Rockett. I will treasure forever. I, like Dawn, Cindy and Bonnie, laughed so hard that night as well as David and his bandmates too.

David always loved when the PFG were in the house BONNIE: It was one of the many ways ….. he showed us how much he cared about our Motley Crue.

BONNIE: Didn’t David say he ‘always had so much fun when we were DAWN: It felt like we were there’? That is “Hard to Believe”. the only ones there for the show that night.

CINDY: Yes he did as we were saying goodby after the Teen Idols show at It was an amazing night I will never Steamboat days in Burlington, Iowa. forget. And again it wouldn’t have He asked. ‘Are you coming to the next meant as much if you all hadn’t been show? (we weren’t) We always have there. so much fun when you are there.”

BONNIE: David had that ‘Incredible’ ability to completely captivate and connect with his audience. David could have been a great snake charmer or for that matter, even a used car salesman.

COLLEEN: After you attend one of David’s shows you always look forward to the next one and all the fun that went into planning for it, too.

BONNIE: I know...I know...I think I saw the Monkees’ collectively and indiDAWN: My tummy hurts from vidually about one hundred sixty-seven remembering the laughter of that even- times. ing.

COLLEEN: Unfortunately, this show COLLEEN: The show that David did at was the last time I would see David Diamond Joes in Dubuque, Iowa on perform. I was there from day one April 30, 2011, that night, coincided when The Monkees debut on NBC, with Cindy’s Retirement party after 38+ Monday, Sept 12, 1966 @ 6:30 pm years with Heinz. For me personally, CT. It wasn’t until June 15, 1996, this was one of David’s best!! He was almost 30 years later, that I saw the “spot on” that night!! When he sang guys in concert for the first time, minus “Hard To Believe” to Cindy, it was so Mike, at The Riverport Amphitheater in emotional as we had never heard him St Louis, MO. It was incredible and do that song before in one of his well worth waiting all those years for. I shows. few days before this show, David had fallen off his horse and broke (hurt) his BONNIE: I especially liked the look he leg. Still not sure if it was broken begave to us on “Hard to Believe” and cause he was moving around the “Someday Man” as well as if to say, stage pretty well that night. I was back “Ha! You didn’t think I would do this, about 10 rows from the stage and in did you?” total awe!! When David sang, “It’s Nice to be With You”, he came over to COLLEEN: Back in the late 90’s, I had my side of the stage, and I swear he David sign my “Hard To Believe” sheet was singing to me. I am sure all the music which he had co-wrote with Kim other Gals in the audience that night

44

Monkee Shines too thought so, I melted. Finally, after all those many years I got to see “my” Teen Idol perform!! Not everyone is as lucky. He looked so handsome that night in his Tweety Bird yellow suit.

BONNIE: Me too!

COLLEEN: I was not one of the original members of the PFG but so glad that I was able to hook up with The Group when I did. Thanks Cindy, BonCINDY: Yes, it was broken. What a nie and Dawn for all the memories trooper! The show must go on! He …..and like Dawn mentioned earlier— performed with so many broken bones OH MY GOSH I MET DAVY JONES over the years.

TOO….:o) BONNIE: He always looked BONNIE: David not only literally ‘Incredible’. Those golden teeth with “came to our town”, but he came into his incessant smile. Nice watch, too! our lives.

COLLEEN: I purchased one of their tour programs and noticed a fan club, The Purple Flower Gang, that was located in Muscatine, Iowa, which was maybe 30 miles from my hometown in Davenport, Iowa. See I moved from Iowa to St Louis, MO back in May 1983 to take a new job. I couldn’t believe that I had lived all those years just a few miles from Cindy, another fan of The Monkees!! Shortly after that show in St Louis I wrote Cindy and the rest is history and I have been a member of the PFG ever since. There were many road trips and memories that followed and I wouldn’t give them back for the world!!.

So priceless and thanks to Cindy for letting me tag along …..Back in the 60’s and 70’s, there were more fans for The Beatles, (oh don’t get me wrong – I was a big fan of The Beatles especially Paul, something about that English accent – oh yeah I was glued to my TV when The Beatles appeared on the Ed Sullivan show, February 9, 1964), Elvis, The Rolling Stones, The Doors...

BONNIE: The Who? COLLEEN: The Turtles, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Crosby, Stiles, Nash and Young, Neil Diamond and the list goes on……through it all I was always a Monkees fan!!

DAWN: These are just a few Monkee memories I have as a founding member of our little “gang”.

BONNIE: Like Bob Hope said, “Thanks for the memories!” Good night, John Boy. CINDY: The PFG was always more than a fan club.. The core group was an amazing group of friends. We had our moments but I can’t imagine my life without any of them. So many times I told David thank you and he would brush me off like it was nothing.

In the end I think he realized what I was thanking him for. Everything you do is like a ripple in a pond. Those ripples fan out ad make more ripples and so on and so on. David was just being David but he touched so many lives. Because of him I have these wonderful friends. Because of him I have met some incredible people in the entertainment world. Because of him I have traveled from one end of the country, seen both oceans and the Grand Canyon. The Monkees are a very special part of our lives but David reached out and connected to us and became a friend. I don’t think I can ever thank him enough for that. I have all these truly incredible memories that I KNOW are real because I have these wonderful friends who were there with me through it all. I was truly

45

Monkee Shines blessed..

Thank you all for being a part of 28 years of paper Monkee Shines. I hope The road crew has added and lost you will follow us online at: members over the years, although the core group has remained the same.

Each one has remained a very special part of all our magic memories.

http://issuu.com/ purpleflowergang

You And I

By Micky Dolenz & David Jones After all the spotlights and the flowers After all the parties and goodbyes There was something in the air Something that we realized we would always share And it was you and I You and I After all the music and the madness After all the late night fantasies We knew that we would make it through There was little in our way Nothing they could do ''Cause it was you and I and promises not broken You and I and magic memories After all was said and done they never understood How we always made it. we knew we always would 'Cause it was you and I You and I Now it seems that we are still together And all the others never made it through Someday they'll learn our secret way It isn't such a secret, it isn't hard to do 'Cause it's you and I and promises not broken You and I and magic memories After all was said and done they never understood How we always made it. we knew we always would 'Cause it was you and I You and I You and I

46

Monkee Shines

Beavertown 2014 This year’s Beavertown Memorial, June 15, 2014, was attended by about 150 people and was, as always, a chance for fans to gather and remember David.

This year the event was missing Mayor Cloyd Wagner who was a great supporter of David’s and who did so much for the events. Sadly, Mayor Wagner passed away on December 30, 2013.

There were no bed races this year but lots of other events. Many bands performed Monkee songs and Chris Pick performed his original tribute to David “Finally Free’.

The realtor selling David’s rental property took many fans on a tour of the house which is on sale for $90,000.

Be-

cause Beavertown is basically a small rural town (one of the things David loved about it) there is a shortage of hotels/motels in the area which becomes an issue when trying to attract fans to a memorial so it is with great sadness event organizer, Michael Shoenfelt, announced that the event will not continue. If you attended the past events I hope you will drop Mr. Shoenfelt a note and thank him and the community of Beavertown for their hospitality and love of David.

From Michael Shoenfelt, organizer for The Beavertown Memorial: First of all, I wish to thank you all for the support you have shown for the Beavertown events over the past few years. People graciously donated money, time and hard work to make these events something we could all be proud of. This year we faced a huge challenge without Mayor Cloyd Wagner on our side. He took care of the funds for future events and all the "in Beavertown" details, to make things run smoothly. I have decided that I will no longer hold events in Beavertown. It has become a circus and I feel I can no longer put on the kind of show that I feel would respect and honor Davy the way I would like. I thank you all, but it has become what I NEVER wanted it to become.

Thank you all and God bless you!

47

Monkee Shines

See YOU online! Facebook groups: The Monkees Fan Club The Purple Flower Gang. Newsletter: http://issuu.com/purpleflowergang

48