Songs with monkey in the title have been around for decades, and they have become a popular theme in music. From rock to pop to jazz, there are many songs that feature monkeys in their titles. These songs are often catchy, fun, and memorable, and they have become a staple of many music genres.
One of the most popular songs with monkey in the title is “Brass Monkey” by the Beastie Boys. This song is a classic hip-hop track that has been sampled and remixed many times over the years.
Other songs with monkey in the title include “Monkey Wrench” by the Foo Fighters, “Monkey Man” by The Rolling Stones, and “Monkey Gone to Heaven” by The Pixies.
These songs have become iconic in their own right, and they continue to be popular with fans of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, or hip-hop, there’s a song with monkey in the title that’s sure to get your toes tapping and your head bobbing.
History of Songs with Monkeys in the Title
Early Examples
The use of monkeys in song titles has been around for decades. One of the earliest examples is the song “Monkey Business” by the jazz musician Duke Ellington, which was released in 1931. The song features a playful melody and lyrics that reference the mischievous nature of monkeys.
Another early example is the song “Monkey and the Baboon” by the blues musician Big Joe Williams, which was released in 1941. The song tells the story of a monkey and a baboon who get into a fight, and features a driving rhythm and catchy chorus.
Evolution of the Theme
Over time, the theme of monkeys in song titles has evolved to include a wide range of genres and styles. In the 1960s, the Beatles released the song “Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey,” which features a psychedelic sound and lyrics that are open to interpretation.
In the 1980s, the Beastie Boys released the song “Brass Monkey,” which became an instant classic and is still played at parties and clubs today. The song features a catchy hook and a funky beat, and the lyrics are a tribute to the popular cocktail of the same name.
More recently, the Australian singer Tones and I released the song “Dance Monkey,” which became a global hit in 2019. The song features a catchy melody and lyrics that describe the performer’s experience as a street musician.
Overall, songs with monkeys in the title have become a staple of popular music, and continue to be a source of inspiration for musicians of all genres and styles.
Popular Songs with Monkey in the Title
When it comes to songs with monkey in the title, there are several popular ones that come to mind. Here are some of the most well-known songs that feature monkeys in their titles.
1. Monkey Man
Monkey Man” is a well-known song by The Rolling Stones that was released on their 1969 album “Let It Bleed.”
The song has a catchy melody and memorable lyrics, making it a fan favorite. It has been covered by several artists over the years, including Amy Winehouse and Toots and the Maytals.
2. Brass Monkey
Another popular song with monkey in the title is “Brass Monkey” by the Beastie Boys.
Released on their 1986 album “Licensed to Ill,” the song features a sample from “Bring It Here” by Wild Sugar. It became a hit in the United States and has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
3. Monkey Wrench
“Monkey Wrench” is a popular song by the Foo Fighters, which was released in 1997. The song is known for its catchy guitar riff and powerful vocals by lead singer Dave Grohl. It won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance and has been praised for its energy and intensity.
Overall, these three songs are just a few examples of the many popular songs with monkey in the title. They have all become beloved classics and continue to be played on radio stations and streaming services around the world.
Lesser-Known Songs with Monkey in the Title
There are plenty of popular songs with monkey in the title, but there are also some lesser-known gems worth exploring. Here are three songs with monkey in the title that deserve more attention:
1. Monkey Gone to Heaven
“Monkey Gone to Heaven” is a song by the Pixies, released in 1989. It was the first single from their album “Doolittle” and is regarded as one of their best songs. The song was written by frontman Black Francis and is known for its cryptic lyrics about environmentalism and religion.
2. Monkey Business
“Monkey Business” is a hard rock anthem by Skid Row, released in 1991 as the third single from their album “Slave to the Grind.” The song encourages living life to the fullest and features a catchy chorus and a guitar solo that showcases the band’s musical talent.
3. Monkey on My Back
“Monkey on My Back” is a song by Aerosmith, released in 1989. The song was the second single from their album “Pump” and is a bluesy rock ballad about addiction. The song features a memorable guitar riff and powerful vocals from frontman Steven Tyler.
While these songs may not be as well-known as other songs with monkey in the title, they are still worth checking out for fans of rock music. Each song has its own unique sound and message, making them stand out from the crowd.
Famous Monkey-Themed Anthems
Monkey-themed songs have been popular for decades, and many of these tracks have become anthems of their time. In this section, we will explore some of the most famous monkey-themed anthems of all time.
1. The Monkey Time
One of the most famous monkey-themed songs is “The Monkey Time” by Major Lance. This classic track was released in 1963 and quickly became a hit. The song’s catchy beat and infectious lyrics made it a favorite among fans of all ages.
“The Monkey Time” is a song about dancing and having a good time. It features a simple, upbeat melody and lyrics that are easy to sing along with. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including The Miracles and The Supremes.
2. The Monkey Song
Another famous monkey-themed anthem is “The Monkey Song” by Harry Belafonte. This classic track was released in 1957 and has since become a staple of popular culture. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of all ages.
“The Monkey Song” is a song about a monkey who escapes from the zoo and causes chaos in the city. The song’s lyrics are playful and fun, and the melody is infectious. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
3. Monkey See, Monkey Do
“Monkey See, Monkey Do” is a famous monkey-themed song by Michael Franks. This track was released in 1979 and quickly became a hit. The song’s smooth melody and playful lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of all ages.
“Monkey See, Monkey Do” is a song about the dangers of following the crowd. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to think for themselves and not simply follow the crowd. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including Stevie Wonder and George Benson.
Overall, these three monkey-themed anthems are just a few examples of the many classic tracks that have been inspired by our primate friends.
Whether you’re dancing to “The Monkey Time,” singing along to “The Monkey Song,” or contemplating the meaning of “Monkey See, Monkey Do,” these songs are sure to put a smile on your face and a beat in your step.
The Cultural Significance of Monkeys in Music
Folklore and Mythology
Monkeys have been a part of human culture for centuries, appearing in folklore and mythology around the world. In Hindu mythology, the god Hanuman is depicted as a monkey and is revered for his strength, courage, and devotion.
In Chinese mythology, the monkey is one of the 12 animals of the zodiac and is associated with intelligence and mischief. In African folklore, the monkey is often portrayed as a trickster figure, outwitting humans and other animals with its wit and cunning.
Religious Significance
Monkeys also hold religious significance in many cultures. In Buddhism, the monkey is seen as a symbol of the mind’s restless nature and is often used to represent the unenlightened state.
In the Bible, monkeys are not mentioned directly, but some scholars believe that the word “ape” in the Old Testament may refer to monkeys. In Islam, monkeys are considered unclean animals and are not allowed to be eaten.
Modern Interpretations
Monkeys remain a prevalent theme in contemporary music, with songs about them spanning genres and generations. From The Beatles’ “Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey” to Tones and I’s “Dance Monkey,” monkeys have continued to be a popular theme in modern music.
Some artists use monkeys as a metaphor for human behavior, while others simply enjoy the playful and mischievous nature of the animal.
Overall, the cultural significance of monkeys in music is a reflection of their enduring presence in human culture. Whether seen as symbols of intelligence, mischief, or something else entirely, monkeys continue to captivate and inspire us in both traditional and modern contexts.
Conclusion
The world of music is vast and varied, and it’s no surprise that there are many songs about monkeys. From classic rock to pop and everything in between, there’s a monkey song for everyone.
These songs showcase the versatility of the monkey theme and how it can be used to create different types of music.
Other monkey songs, like “Feed the Monkey” by Infectious Grooves and “Monkey Island” by 13th Floor Elevators, are lesser-known but still worth a listen. They offer a unique perspective on the monkey theme and show how it can be used to create music that is both fun and thought-provoking.
Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, hip hop, or anything in between, there’s a monkey song out there for you. So next time you’re looking for some new music to listen to, consider checking out some of the many great songs about monkeys.
