Micky Dolenz

George Michael Dolenz Jr. was born on March 8, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, to actor parents George Dolenz and Janelle Johnson. His entertainment career began early, starring as Corky in the children’s TV show “Circus Boy” from 1956 to 1958 under the name Mickey Braddock. Following this, he made occasional television appearances and pursued his education, graduating from Ulysses S. Grant High School in 1962. Before joining The Monkees, Dolenz led his own rock band, “Micky and the One-Nighters,” in the early-to-mid 1960s, performing rock, cover songs, and R&B.

In 1965, Dolenz was cast in “The Monkees” television sitcom, becoming the drummer and a lead vocalist for the band formed for the show. He contributed lead vocals to significant hits such as “Last Train to Clarksville,” “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” and “I’m a Believer.” Dolenz also made notable contributions to the band’s musical evolution, including writing “Randy Scouse Git” and being an early adopter of the Moog synthesizer, which was featured on the Monkees’ song “Daily Nightly” in 1967. After “The Monkees” TV show concluded in 1968, Dolenz continued to work in entertainment, providing voice-overs for various Saturday-morning cartoon series and appearing in film and television projects.

Dolenz transitioned into directing and producing in the UK during the 1980s, overseeing shows like “Metal Mickey” and stage adaptations. The resurgence of “Monkee Mania” in 1986, ignited by MTV reruns, led to reunion tours and new recordings. He pursued solo music projects, including “King for a Day” (2009) and “Dolenz Sings Nesmith” (2021). Dolenz remained an active performer and touring artist, participating in Monkees reunions until 2021 and continuing solo work, including an R.E.M. covers EP in 2023. He is the last surviving member of The Monkees.