Micky Dolenz, the last surviving member of the iconic pop-rock group the Monkees, is set to celebrate the band’s legacy with his upcoming tour, titled 60 Years of the Monkees. The tour kicks off at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts on February 13, 2026, marking six decades since the premiere of the Monkees’ groundbreaking television series in September 1966.
Reflecting on his bandmates, who have all passed away—Michael Nesmith in December 2021, Peter Tork in 2019, and Davey Jones in 2012—Dolenz feels a profound connection to them during his performances. “It’s weird. In a way, they’re still here,” he shared in a recent interview. He incorporates video footage of the group into every show, alongside classic songs written and sung by Nesmith and others.
Dolenz acknowledges the emotional weight of revisiting their shared history, particularly after the loss of Jones. “After Davey passed, I couldn’t even look at some of the video behind me without tearing up. It was tough,” he admitted. This sense of responsibility drives Dolenz to keep the Monkees’ spirit alive through music and memories.
Tour Details and Setlist Expectations
The 60 Years of the Monkees tour promises to deliver a rich mix of nostalgia and music. Dolenz has indicated that the majority of the show will focus on their hit songs, with a chronological approach to their discography. “We intend to do the hit songs, the fan favorites from each album,” he explained. He also plans to weave in stories about the show’s origin, the casting process, and the talented songwriters behind their most famous tunes, such as Neil Diamond and Carole King.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the opening number, “Last Train to Clarksville,” the band’s debut single and their first No. 1 hit. “Yep, you nailed it,” Dolenz confirmed when asked about the opener. He added that while the setlist remains fluid, certain classics like “I’m a Believer” and “Pleasant Valley Sunday” are essential.
Dolenz’s journey with the Monkees began when he auditioned for the show in 1965, during which he was still studying architecture in college. He had initially starred in the series Circus Boy as a child actor. “I thought if I couldn’t make it as an architect, I could always fall back on showbiz,” he recalled, reflecting on his early aspirations.
The Unique Legacy of the Monkees
The Monkees were created to capitalize on the rising popularity of bands like the Beatles. Dolenz noted that the show was designed as a musical comedy, not merely a band. “Just always keep in mind that the Monkees was not a group,” he emphasized. “It was the cast of a musical comedy television show.” This unique concept was revolutionary at the time, blending scripted comedy with live music.
Throughout their career, the Monkees faced skepticism regarding their legitimacy as a band. Dolenz, however, has always defended their artistry. “They must have had it in mind… that if the show gets on the air, we’re going to do it and do it for real,” he stated.
As the band transitioned from a television show to a touring act, they developed a distinct chemistry that resonated with audiences. Dolenz recalled the early days when the four members began to bond, stating, “Within the first couple of episodes, we would be telling the director, ‘Oh, wait a minute, Davey wouldn’t say that line, that’s a Micky line.’”
The Monkees’ music, crafted by some of the era’s most talented songwriters, set them apart from their contemporaries. Dolenz described the diversity of their musical backgrounds, with each member bringing a unique style to the table. “Mike Nesmith, country, electric, pop rock; me, I was singing rock and roll… Davey doing Broadway ballads; Peter doing hardcore Greenwich Village folky,” he explained.
Dolenz’s commitment to preserving the Monkees’ legacy is evident in his enthusiasm for the upcoming tour. “I do feel a responsibility… to kind of keep the home fires burning,” he stated, underscoring his dedication to honoring his late bandmates while celebrating their shared musical journey.
As Dolenz prepares to take the stage once again, he remains a vital link to the Monkees’ storied past, ensuring that their music and memories continue to resonate with fans around the world.
