About the Song
Among the many surprising turns in The Monkees’ musical evolution, “Porpoise Song (Theme from Head)” stands as one of the most compelling. Released in 1968 as the opening track of their experimental film Head, this song marked a dramatic shift away from the upbeat, teen-pop image that had defined the band’s early success. Instead, “Porpoise Song” dives deep into the waters of psychedelia, existential reflection, and artistic reinvention.
Written by the legendary songwriting team of Gerry Goffin and Carole King, the track is worlds apart from hits like “I’m a Believer” or “Last Train to Clarksville.” From its ethereal opening to its haunting fade-out, the song sets a dreamlike tone—lush with swirling organ, layered harmonies, and underwater sound effects. It’s both beautiful and disorienting, much like the film it was composed for.
Lyrically, “Porpoise Song” is full of veiled metaphors and quiet despair. Lines like “The porpoise is laughing, goodbye, goodbye” suggest themes of departure, disillusionment, and perhaps even a yearning for escape—from fame, from artificiality, from the expectations placed on the band as a manufactured pop act. Micky Dolenz’s lead vocals are particularly striking here—melancholy, distant, and introspective. Peter Tork’s harmonies add texture and a hint of sadness, giving the song a layered emotional depth.
Though it wasn’t a major commercial hit at the time of its release, “Porpoise Song” has since been re-evaluated by fans and critics as one of The Monkees’ most artistically ambitious efforts. It captured a band in transition, pushing back against the industry machine that created them, and daring to explore darker, more complex territory.
For listeners today—especially those who lived through the late ’60s—“Porpoise Song” can feel like a rediscovered gem. It reflects a moment when pop music grew up, when image gave way to introspection, and when The Monkees quietly proved that they had more to say than anyone expected.