Micky Dolenz Talks Songs, Stories, and Staying Creative | Interview Recap

Legendary entertainer Micky Dolenz, best known as the lead vocalist and drummer of The Monkees, sat down with Dallas Jack and Rich Lynch for a candid 20-minute conversation packed with stories, reflections, and behind-the-scenes insights. With new music out and a series of upcoming live performances—including a show at the Franklin Theatre on April 27—Dolenz proves he’s still as sharp and entertaining as ever.

“Songs and Stories” — A Tour That’s Always Evolving

Dolenz discussed his ongoing Songs & Stories tour, a unique live experience that weaves together Monkees classics, covers, and personal anecdotes from his life in entertainment. While there’s a framework to each show, spontaneity plays a key role:

“Sometimes you go off the rails and go down a rabbit hole, depending on the vibe of the audience.”

He added:

“Sometimes a story just comes to me, or something will happen that day, and I’ll throw it in if it feels right.”

No two performances are the same, which is exactly how he likes it.

Live at the Troubadour: “We captured lightning in a bottle.”

Dolenz also opened up about his recently released live album, Micky Dolenz: Live at the Troubadour—his first live album in seven years. The show was a benefit for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and according to Dolenz, it was one of those nights where everything just worked:

“It was one of those nights where everything came together… the band, the audience, the vibe. I think we captured lightning in a bottle.”

The album blends energetic Monkees favorites with covers of artists who helped shape the Troubadour’s storied history, including Elton John, Stephen Stills, and Linda Ronstadt.

On “Going Down” and a Classic Vocal Challenge

Later in the interview, Dolenz was asked about his famously rapid-fire vocal on “Going Down”—a fan-favorite track with serious performance demands.

“That song was a workout—even back then. We did it in one take, but I remember thinking, ‘Whoa, I better not mess this up!’”

It’s a standout in his current setlist, and it still fires up audiences decades later.

“It’s All Storytelling.”

With a career that spans music, television, theater, and directing, Dolenz reflected on the through-line that connects all of his creative work:

“It’s all storytelling. That’s what I do—tell stories. Doesn’t matter the medium.”

Whether he’s on stage or behind the camera, that instinct to connect is what’s kept him relevant—and beloved—for generations.

Catch Micky Dolenz Live

🗓 Franklin Theatre – April 27, 2025

🎟 Two shows: 3:00 PM & 8:00 PM

🎫 Tickets available now at mickydolenz.com

Watch the full interview here: