For the majority of entertainment fans, they first learned about Micky Dolenz as the drummer (and sometimes lead vocalist) of The Monkees. But almost 10 years prior to that, Micky was working actor – as Mickey Braddock – starring in the children’s TV show Circus Boy. In turn, Micky has been working steadily for near 60 years, which ought to say a lot about the guy’s multi-generational appeal.
Micky – who had a run with legendary New York radio station WCBS-FM about a decade ago – returns to the area for a series of In Conversation With shows alongside Herman’s Hermits’ Peter Noone. Playing Jan. 7 in Westbury, Jan. 8 in Tarrytown and Jan. 9 in Montclair, the two will be sharing stories in an intimate (and presumably interactive) setting. Those seeking a musical performance from Micky can find such at B.B. King’s on Jan. 16, an APAP showcase alongside John O’Hurley, Dave Liang, Nari: Gingger Shanker, Joe Robinson and The Grahams.
Q&A with Micky was conducted over e-mail for Downtown about a variety of topics. More info on his various projects can be found at www.mickydolenz.com, while his company with his daughter Georgia can be visited directly at www.dolenzanddaughters.com.
As a survivor of Gilbert Gottfried’s podcast, did you know what you were getting into when you booked that appearance?
Micky Dolenz: It was a great interview. Gilbert’s been a friend for years. Enjoyed it a lot. We did it at The Friar’s Club in New York City.
When was the first time that you heard about [the Monkees film] Head being a cult classic? Was it after [Head writer] Jack Nicholson had become a big movie star?
M: It always had its own little cult following, and in the years since we did it, it’s just grown.
What do you remember about your first ever live performance in New York? Was it as part of The Monkees?
M: Yes, it was a great moment.
Do you feel that The Monkees get the respect that they deserve?
M: Absolutely. 50 years later, the music still lives on. We had such great writers and producers, how could it not?
Did you have the opportunity to be involved with the Hollywood Vampires album recorded recently?
M: The schedules couldn’t be worked out.
Were you there the night at the Troubadour when John Lennon was tossed out during the Helen Reddy show? Was that sort of thing common to observe among the Hollywood Vampires?
M: The Rainbow on Sunset [Boulevard] was more our hangout. You know, the Vampires really started out as a baseball team.
How close were you to Harry Nilsson? Is there something that you wish more people knew about him?
M: Just that he was a phenomenal writer and performer.
When you have free time, how do you like to spend it? Or, given your busy scheduling with working, do you enjoy working?
M: With my daughter Georgia, we have started Dolenz & Daughters Fine Furniture Woodshop. Check it out: www.DolenzandDaughters.com.
Finally, Micky, any last words for the kids?
M: For the kids going into show business? Get a good lawyer.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
