About the song
“I’m a Believer” by The Monkees is one of the quintessential hits of the 1960s, encapsulating the joyful and infectious spirit of the era. Written by Neil Diamond, the song was released in 1966 and became a defining track for the band, solidifying their place in pop music history. The song was featured on their album “More of The Monkees,” which also enjoyed immense success.
The upbeat melody and catchy lyrics of “I’m a Believer” are instantly recognizable, making it a timeless classic. Neil Diamond, who had already established himself as a talented songwriter, crafted a song that resonated with the youthful exuberance of the time. The Monkees, fronted by lead vocalist Micky Dolenz, brought the song to life with their vibrant performance and polished harmonies.
Upon its release, “I’m a Believer” quickly soared to the top of the charts. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and held that position for seven weeks, making it the biggest-selling record for all of 1967. It also topped charts in several other countries, further establishing The Monkees as international pop icons. The song’s success was a testament to its universal appeal and the band’s broad fan base.
The lyrics of “I’m a Believer” tell a straightforward yet heartfelt story of newfound love and the transformation that it brings. Lines like “Then I saw her face, now I’m a believer / Not a trace of doubt in my mind” capture the euphoria of falling in love and the certainty that accompanies it. This simple, relatable theme, coupled with an irresistible tune, contributed to the song’s lasting popularity.
“I’m a Believer” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including a notable version by Smash Mouth for the “Shrek” movie soundtrack, which introduced the song to a new generation of fans. Despite the many renditions, The Monkees’ original recording remains the definitive version, cherished by fans old and new.
For those who lived through the 1960s and for new listeners discovering The Monkees for the first time, “I’m a Believer” is a song that brings back fond memories and continues to spread joy. Its enduring charm and infectious energy make it a standout track in the annals of pop music. Whether you’re reminiscing about the past or enjoying the song in the present, “I’m a Believer” is a testament to the timeless appeal of The Monkees and their music.
Video
https://youtu.be/wB9YIsKIEbA
Lyrics
I thought love was only true in fairy tales
Meant for someone else but not for me
Ah, love was out to get me
That’s the way it seemed
Disappointment haunted all my dreams
Then I saw her face, now I’m a believer
Not a trace of doubt in my mind
I’m in love
I’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I tried
I thought love was more or less a given thing
Seems the more I gave, the less I got
What’s the use in tryin’?
All you get is pain
When I needed sunshine, I got rain
Oh, then I saw her face, now I’m a believer
Not a trace of doubt in my mind
I’m in love
I’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I tried
Ah, love was out to get me
Now, that’s the way it seemed
Disappointment haunted all my dreams
Ah, then I saw her face, now I’m a believer
Not a trace of doubt in my mind
I’m in love
Ah, I’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I tried
Yes, I saw her face, now I’m a believer
No, not a trace of doubt in my mind
Said, I’m a believer, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
(I’m a believer)
Said, I’m a believer, yeah (I’m a believer)
I said, I’m a believer, yeah (I’m a believer)