The Monkees – Valleri

About the Song

There are certain songs that instantly transport you back to a time of transistor radios, Saturday morning TV, and the sweet simplicity of pop music at its catchiest—and “Valleri” by The Monkees is one of those songs. Released in 1968, this high-energy, guitar-driven track showcases the band at their most confident and polished, just as they were beginning to assert themselves as serious musicians and not just TV personalities.

“Valleri” was written by the powerhouse duo of Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, who were behind many of the band’s biggest early hits. But this one stood out, not only for its punchy chorus and infectious melody, but also for its blazing guitar solo—performed by the legendary Louie Shelton, one of the unsung heroes of the Wrecking Crew studio musicians. That solo, dripping with attitude and soul, gave the song a rock edge that set it apart from other pop singles of the era.

Davy Jones handles lead vocals here with his signature charm and charisma. His delivery—playful, romantic, and just a little mischievous—brings “Valleri” to life. The lyrics themselves are simple, centered around a girl’s name and the narrator’s infatuation with her, but it’s the delivery and arrangement that elevate it into a memorable, radio-ready gem.

Interestingly, “Valleri” has a bit of a backstory. It was originally recorded for The Monkees’ TV series in 1967, but due to rights issues and label decisions, it wasn’t officially released as a single until 1968—after being re-recorded to match the group’s evolving sound. Despite the delay, it climbed all the way to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving that The Monkees were still very much a force in pop music.

For fans of that vibrant late ’60s sound, “Valleri” is a perfect blend of catchy songwriting, crisp production, and a band right at the crossroads of commercial success and growing musical independence. It remains a beloved highlight in The Monkees’ catalog—bright, bold, and undeniably fun.

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