The Monkees Back With New Album, Singles Written by Modern Artists

Davy Jones overlooks his Monkees bandmates (left to right): Mike Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Micky Dolenz. (Keystone Features/Getty Images)

The Monkees, who rose to popularity as actor-musicians in their eponymous 1960s television series, are known for a string of hit singles like “Pleasant Valley Sunday” and “I’m a Believer“—written by other pop songwriters (Gerry Goffin and Carole King, and Neil Diamond, respectively). Now, the band has recorded Good Times!, its first album in 20 years and a celebration of its 50th anniversary together. And just like the old days, the band—now minus the late Davy Jones—has brought in modern songwriters to help out. Below, listen to “She Makes Me Laugh,” written by alt-rocker Rivers Cuomo of Weezer; and “You Bring the Summer” from XTC’s Andy Partridge.