Songwriter Bobby Hart, who co-wrote several hits for The Monkees with Tommy Boyce, has died at 86. Variety reports he died Wednesday, Sep. 10, after a long illness.
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With his co-writing partner Boyce, the Phoenix-born artist penned the theme song to the series about the misadventures of a Beatles-esque rock band. They also wrote several of the songs featured on the show. They include "Last Train to Clarksville," "Valleri," "I Wanna Be Free," "(I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone," and "Words."
What Did The Monkees Have To Say?
Mickey Dolenz, The Monkees' last surviving member, issued this statement on Hart's passing:
"Another great is gone. Bobby Hart, who, along with Tommy Boyce, penned and produced some of the Monkees' greatest hits not only made a vital contribution to the popular success of the Monkees, but even more importantly, to the essence, the very spirit of the entire venture. His talent, charisma, good humor, and calmness in the face of what at times was nothing less than a maniacal rollercoaster ride often brought a sense of peace that heartened everyone around him. He was the stillness that is the eye of the hurricane."
Bobby Hart Co-Wrote Other Classic Songs
In addition to their mid-1960s work with The Monkees, Hart and Boyce wrote the theme song for the soap opera Days Of Our Lives. Throughout the 1960s, the duo became familiar faces on television. They appeared on shows such as Bewitched, The Flying Nun, and I Dream Of Jeannie.
Hart's songwriting versatility can be heard in hits like "Hurt So Bad." The track was covered by Little Anthony and the Imperials, The Lettermen, and most famously, Linda Ronstadt. "Come a Little Bit Closer" also achieved success with Jay and the Americans in 1964.
Hart and Boyce had their own hit with "I Wonder What She's Doing Tonight" in 1967.
Hart also had a connection to the country music world. He penned "Over You" with Austin Roberts for the Robert Duvall film Tender Mercies. The song was nominated for an Academy Award in 1983.
"Bobby's songwriting work accurately articulated youthful energy and emotions to the world, but his soul work brought happiness, contentment, and peace into our home," said his wife, MaryAnn, in a statement.
Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
