The Monkees’ Biggest Hit: Why We’re Still Believing After All These Years

I’m a Believer quickly became the biggest hit of The Monkees’ career, soaring to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for an astonishing seven weeks. Written by Neil Diamond and performed by the made-for-TV pop group The Monkees, the song perfectly captured the youthful optimism and energy of the late ‘60s.

Featuring Micky Dolenz on lead vocals and backed by bouncy guitar hooks and infectious harmonies, I’m a Believer became an instant radio favorite. Though the group initially faced skepticism as a “manufactured band,” the massive success of this single helped them gain musical credibility—and a devoted fanbase.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐬 – 𝐈’𝐦 𝐀 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫

Written by Neil Diamond: The song was penned by the legendary Neil Diamond, who would later go on to record his own version—but The Monkees’ take remains the definitive hit.

Chart Domination: I’m a Believer was the best-selling single in the U.S. in 1967, moving over 10 million copies worldwide.

TV to Stardom: The Monkees were originally cast for a television show modeled after The Beatles’ A Hard Day’s Night, but soon evolved into genuine recording artists.

Covered by Many: The song’s popularity has endured for decades. It was famously covered by Smash Mouth for the Shrek movie soundtrack in 2001—introducing it to a whole new generation.

Pop Culture Favorite: From The Simpsons to Stranger Things, I’m a Believer continues to appear in soundtracks and commercials thanks to its upbeat vibe and universal appeal.

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