Beloved Monkees Musician Passes Away at 86: Tributes Pour In

Bobby Hart, who was the mastermind behind many of the songs in the television hit, “The Monkees,” has passed away at the age of 86.

The news of his passing was announced on social media, with Hart having passed on Wednesday, Sept. 10, at his home in Los Angeles

Hart along with his co-writer Tommy Boyce wrote the theme song for the Monkees, along with the 1966 No. 1 “Last Train to Clarksville.” He and Boyce also co-wrote the theme song for the popular soap “Days of Our Lives,” as well as making appearances on  “Bewitched,” “The Flying Nun,” and “I Dream of Jeannie” in the 1960s.

And in 1983, Hart was nominated for an Oscar for his song “Over You,” from the movie “Tender Mercies.”

The Monkees Announces Bobby Hart’s Passing on Social Media

The band announced Hart’s passing on social media.

“Very sad news to report: Bobby Hart, the songwriting dynamo who was half of the duo responsible for so many Monkees songs, has died. With partner Tommy Boyce, Bobby penned tracks like “I Wanna Be Free,” “Last Train to Clarksville,” the iconic ‘Monkees’ theme, and so many more, in addition to his solo songwriting career with hits like “Hurts So Bad” for Little Anthony & the Imperials. He will be remembered for his incredible talent and his innate spirituality,” the Monkees wrote.

“Said Bobby: “It’s interesting and gratifying to look back these many years later and see that the Monkees are still with us, and they’re still being played somewhere…the records themselves have been staples that have gone on to sell for years and years. They still sound pretty fresh, and that we had an opportunity to do a lot of music that was married to visuals, and so, that in itself kinda seems to ensure that they’ll have a life of their own that’ll probably far outlast mine,” they added. “You will be so missed, Bobby.”

Fans Pay Tribute To Bobby Hart

“Another great is gone. Bobby Hart, alongside Tommy Boyce, crafted some of The Monkees’ biggest hits and embodied the spirit of their success. His talent, humor, and calmness amidst chaos brought peace to those around him—the eye of the hurricane. Rest in peace, Bobby,” Monkees drummer and lead singer Michael Dolenz posted.

“so sad to learn about BobbyHart this morning,” one fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“RIP Bobby Hart. It was a true honour to work with you on reissuing your solo album. We will never forget your kindness and your enthusiasm. Together with Tommy Boyce, you wrote the soundtrack of our childhoods, with songs like “Last Train to Clarksville,” “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone,” “I Wanna Be Free,” and The Monkees theme song. Beyond that, you created countless hits for so many other artists. You will be deeply missed, but your music will live on forever,” 7a Records posted.

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