Monkeys have been a source of fascination and inspiration for artists across different genres and eras. From Chuck Berry’s classic rock and roll hit “Too Much Monkey Business” to Bruce Springsteen’s socially conscious “Part Man, Part Monkey,” there’s something about these curious creatures that captures the human imagination. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best songs about monkeys that are sure to make you hang around. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, indie folk, or alternative rock, there’s a monkey-themed song out there for everyone. We’ll be diving deep into the lyrics and music of some of these iconic songs, discussing what makes them great and what they have to say about the human experience. We’ll also explore some lesser-known gems that you may not have heard before but are definitely worth checking out. So if you’re ready to swing through the trees and explore the musical world of monkeys, let’s get started!
1. ‘Tweeter and the Monkey Man’ – The Traveling Wilburys
“Tweeter and the Monkey Man” is a classic rock song by the supergroup, The Traveling Wilburys. The song tells a story of crime, love, and betrayal, inspired by the works of Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan. The lyrics are cleverly crafted with vivid descriptions and detailed characters that take the listener on a journey through a fictional town. The song features multiple lead vocalists, including Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Roy Orbison, and showcases each member’s unique style and contribution to the band. The instrumentation is also top-notch, with a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and harmonica solos that perfectly complement the storytelling. “Tweeter and the Monkey Man” is a fan-favorite and a testament to the remarkable talents of the supergroup’s members.
2. ‘Everybody’s Got Something to Hide, Except For Me and My Monkey’ – The Beatles
“Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except for Me and My Monkey” is a psychedelic rock song by the iconic band, The Beatles. The song is notable for its catchy, upbeat melody, and playful lyrics that are open to interpretation. The song features John Lennon on lead vocals, who delivers the lyrics with a frenzied energy that matches the driving rhythm of the song. The instrumentation is also a highlight, with a lively drumbeat, distorted guitar riffs, and a memorable bassline that propels the song forward. The song’s title and lyrics have been the subject of much discussion and speculation over the years, but regardless of its meaning, “Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except for Me and My Monkey” is a fun and infectious track that showcases The Beatles’ innovative approach to music.
3. ‘Shock The Monkey’ – Peter Gabriel
“Shock the Monkey” is a haunting and atmospheric song by British musician Peter Gabriel. Released in 1982, the song features a mesmerizing synthesizer riff, tribal percussion, and Gabriel’s signature, emotive vocals. The lyrics explore the darker side of human behavior, using the metaphor of shocking a monkey to describe the power dynamics in a toxic relationship. The song is notable for its innovative production techniques, including the use of gated reverb and the Fairlight CMI synthesizer, which give the song a unique and otherworldly sound. “Shock the Monkey” was a commercial success, reaching the top 30 on the US Billboard charts and earning Gabriel critical acclaim for his distinctive, artful approach to pop music.
4. ‘Monkey Gone to Heaven’ – Pixies
“Monkey Gone to Heaven” is a post-punk, alternative rock song by the American band Pixies. The song was released in 1989 and features a driving bassline, distorted guitars, and an anthemic chorus. The lyrics are enigmatic and explore themes of environmentalism, spirituality, and the fear of death. The song’s title and refrain, “this monkey’s gone to heaven,” have become a memorable part of pop culture and are often referenced in discussions about the band’s legacy. “Monkey Gone to Heaven” is a standout track from Pixies’ catalog, and it showcases the band’s ability to create memorable and thought-provoking music that is both catchy and meaningful.
5. ‘Monkey Man’ – The Rolling Stones
“Monkey Man” is a rock and roll song by the legendary British band, The Rolling Stones. Released in 1969, the song features a catchy, blues-inspired guitar riff and a memorable chorus that has become a classic part of the band’s repertoire. The lyrics are playful and describe a mysterious, enigmatic woman who is a “monkey woman” in the eyes of the narrator. The song also features dynamic vocals by lead singer Mick Jagger, who delivers the lyrics with his trademark charisma and energy. “Monkey Man” is a timeless and beloved rock song that showcases The Rolling Stones’ ability to create catchy and memorable music that has stood the test of time.
6. ‘Monkey and the Engineer’ – The Grateful Dead
“Monkey and the Engineer” is a folk song performed by the American rock band, the Grateful Dead. The song was written by Jesse Fuller and features a lively, acoustic guitar-driven melody with a cheerful, upbeat rhythm. The lyrics tell the story of a monkey who is employed as an engineer on a train, and his misadventures as he tries to keep the train running smoothly. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious melody make it a fan favorite and showcase the Grateful Dead’s ability to blend elements of rock and folk music with storytelling to create an engaging and fun musical experience. “Monkey and the Engineer” is a lighthearted and charming song that has become a staple of the Grateful Dead’s live performances.
7. ‘Brass Monkey’ – Beastie Boys
“Brass Monkey” is a rap/hip-hop song by the American group, the Beastie Boys. The song features a sample of an instrumental track by the band, Rare Earth, and is characterized by its funky, danceable beat and catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics are humorous and depict a party scene where the narrator is drinking and dancing to the beat of the music. The phrase “Brass Monkey” refers to a cocktail made from rum and orange juice, and the song has become a cultural reference to the drink. “Brass Monkey” is a classic party anthem that showcases the Beastie Boys’ unique blend of hip-hop, rock, and funk music, and their ability to create catchy, fun, and energetic music that has stood the test of time.
8. ‘Monkey Man’ – Toots and the Maytals
“Toots and the Maytals” is a reggae classic by the Jamaican band, Toots and the Maytals. The song features a lively and energetic rhythm, with a soulful and catchy melody that blends reggae, ska, and rocksteady influences. The lyrics celebrate the joy of dancing and the unity that comes from sharing music and dance with others. The lead singer, Toots Hibbert, delivers the lyrics with a soulful and powerful voice that captures the energy and passion of the music. “Monkey Man” is a beloved reggae classic that has been covered by numerous artists and has become a cultural touchstone in Jamaica and beyond. The song is an enduring example of Toots and the Maytals’ unique and infectious sound, and their ability to create music that inspires and uplifts the spirit.
9. ‘Monkey Wrench’ – Foo Fighters
“Monkey Wrench” is a hard rock song by the American band, Foo Fighters. The song features a driving, guitar-driven melody with pounding drums and a catchy chorus. The lyrics tell a story of frustration and disillusionment, as the narrator feels trapped and unable to escape his current situation. The phrase “Monkey Wrench” refers to a tool used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts, and the lyrics use this as a metaphor for the narrator’s struggle to break free from his circumstances. “Monkey Wrench” showcases the Foo Fighters’ signature blend of hard rock and alternative music, and their ability to create powerful and emotionally charged music that speaks to the struggles and experiences of their listeners.
10. ‘Punish The Monkey’ – Mark Knopfler
“Punish The Monkey” is a blues rock song by the British musician, Mark Knopfler. The song features a gritty, bluesy guitar riff with a driving rhythm and a catchy chorus. The lyrics tell a story of corruption and injustice, as the narrator rails against those who abuse their power and prey on the vulnerable. The phrase “Punish The Monkey” is used as a metaphor for the narrator’s desire to see justice served and the corrupt punished for their misdeeds. “Punish The Monkey” showcases Knopfler’s skill as a guitarist and songwriter, and his ability to create music that speaks to the human experience and the struggles we face in our daily lives.
11. ‘Monkey’ – Harry Belafonte
“Monkey” is a lively and upbeat calypso song by the American singer and musician, Harry Belafonte. The song features a catchy melody with a prominent rhythm and horn section. The lyrics describe the playful and mischievous nature of monkeys, and their ability to cause chaos and confusion. The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics make it a classic feel-good tune that is sure to get listeners moving and singing along. “Monkey” is a testament to Belafonte’s musical talent and his ability to create music that transcends borders and cultures, bringing people together through the power of music.
12. ‘Part Man, Part Monkey’ – Bruce Springsteen
“Part Man, Part Monkey” is a song by Bruce Springsteen that features a driving rock and roll rhythm and socially conscious lyrics. The song is characterized by a powerful guitar riff, energetic drums, and Springsteen’s signature raspy vocals. The lyrics explore the idea that humans are a blend of both our animal and rational sides, and how we struggle to reconcile these two parts of ourselves. Springsteen uses the metaphor of a monkey to symbolize our primal instincts, while also highlighting the importance of compassion and empathy as we navigate the complexities of modern life. Overall, “Part Man, Part Monkey” is a thought-provoking and musically dynamic track that showcases Springsteen’s skill as a songwriter and performer.
13. ‘Too Much Monkey Business’ – Chuck Berry
“Too Much Monkey Business” is a classic rock and roll song by Chuck Berry that was first released in 1956. The song features a fast-paced, upbeat tempo and Berry’s signature guitar riffs and clever lyrics. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is fed up with the monotony of his daily life and the endless demands of modern society. He complains that there’s “too much monkey business” going on and that people need to slow down and enjoy life more. Berry’s wit and social commentary in the lyrics, combined with his infectious guitar work, make “Too Much Monkey Business” a timeless classic that has influenced countless artists in the decades since its release.
14. ‘Monkeys’ – Echo and The Bunnymen
“Monkeys” is a song by the British rock band Echo and The Bunnymen that was released in 1997. The song features a moody and atmospheric sound, characterized by haunting vocals, atmospheric guitar work, and ethereal synth textures. The lyrics of the song explore themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the human desire for escape. The title “Monkeys” is used as a metaphor for the pressures and expectations of modern life, and the feeling that we are all trapped in a “monkey cage” of our own making. The song builds to a powerful crescendo, with the band’s instrumentation reaching a fever pitch as they drive home the song’s message of the need for freedom and self-expression. Overall, “Monkeys” is a powerful and evocative song that showcases Echo and The Bunnymen’s skill as both songwriters and musicians.
15. ‘New Monkey’ – Elliott Smith
“New Monkey” is a song by the late American singer-songwriter Elliott Smith that was released in 2007, posthumously. The song features Smith’s trademark finger-picking guitar style, accompanied by his tender and emotive vocals. The lyrics of the song deal with themes of alienation, depression, and the search for meaning in life. Smith’s haunting delivery of lines like “You’ll find a new monkey every time you leave” underscores the feeling of helplessness and despair that permeates the song. The sparse instrumentation and gentle melody give the song a feeling of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing Smith’s lyrics and voice to take center stage. Overall, “New Monkey” is a poignant and introspective song that showcases Smith’s incredible songwriting talent and his ability to capture complex emotions with his music.
16. ‘Coupe De Ville’ – Neil Young
“Coupe De Ville” is a song by the legendary Canadian musician Neil Young that was released in 1988. The song features a laid-back country-rock vibe, with a catchy melody and Young’s signature vocals. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man who buys a Cadillac Coupe De Ville and takes a road trip with his girlfriend, exploring the freedom and joy of the open road. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a perfect driving song, with the twangy guitar riffs and smooth harmonies adding to its charm. The lyrics are simple and relatable, painting a picture of the carefree spirit of youth and the thrill of adventure. Overall, “Coupe De Ville” is a fun and nostalgic song that showcases Young’s skill as a songwriter and his ability to capture the essence of the American road trip.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
