About the song
“A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You” is a notable song in The Monkees’ illustrious catalog, embodying the quintessential pop sound of the late 1960s. Written by the acclaimed Neil Diamond, this song was recorded by The Monkees in 1967 and released as a single on the Colgems label. It holds the distinction of being the first Monkees single to feature Davy Jones on lead vocals, a move that highlighted his smooth and engaging singing style.
The song’s release saw significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Cashbox Top 100 chart. It also secured the number two spot on the Billboard Hot 100, with “Somethin’ Stupid” by Frank and Nancy Sinatra narrowly keeping it from the top position. The B-side of the record, “The Girl I Knew Somewhere,” written by band member Michael Nesmith, also enjoyed popularity, peaking at number 39 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Interestingly, “A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You” was initially intended to be part of The Monkees’ album “Headquarters,” but it was ultimately omitted from the final track list. The song was, however, included on the “I’m a Believer” EP released in Europe. Despite not recording it himself, Neil Diamond performed the song during his live shows in 1967, with one such performance recorded at New York’s Bitter End club.
The Monkees’ relationship with their music supervisor, Don Kirshner, was complex. Kirshner, who managed the Brill Building stable of songwriters, including Neil Diamond, often clashed with the band over creative control. Michael Nesmith led the charge for the band to play their own instruments and have a greater say in their music. This tension culminated when Kirshner authorized the pressing and distribution of the single without the band’s approval, leading to his dismissal.
The personnel involved in the recording of “A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You” included renowned session musicians such as Al Gorgoni, Hugh McCracken, and Don Thomas on guitar, Stan Free on clavinet, Artie Butler on organ, Lou Mauro on bass, Thomas Cerone on tambourine, and Herbie Lovelle on drums. Their contributions, combined with Davy Jones’ vocals, created a vibrant and catchy tune that resonated with fans.
Although the master recordings of the song disappeared after the 1960s, mono and stereo mixes were produced. The original stereo mix, featuring reverb-added vocals and a longer fade, appeared on the 1969 “Greatest Hits” album. Rhino Records later rediscovered the multitrack master and issued a new stereo remix in 2007, closely matching the original mono mix.
“A Little Bit Me, a Little Bit You” remains a beloved track in The Monkees’ discography, showcasing their transition from a television band to genuine pop music icons. Its success and the stories behind its creation reflect the vibrant and sometimes turbulent era of 1960s pop music.
Video
Lyrics
Walk out
Girl, don’t you walk out
We’ve got things to say
Talked out, let’s have it talked out
Things will be okay
Girl
I don’t want to fight
I’m a little bit wrong
And you’re a little bit right
I said girl
You know that it’s true
It’s a little bit me, (a little bit me)
It’s a little bit you, too
Don’t know, just what I said wrong
But girl I apologize
Don’t go, here’s where you belong
So wipe the tears from your eyes
Girl
I don’t want to fight
I’m a little bit wrong
You’re a little bit right
I said girl
You know that it’s true
It’s a little bit me
And it’s a little bit you, too
Oh, girl
I don’t want to fight
I’m a little bit wrong
And you’re a little bit right
I said girl
You know that it’s true
It’s a little bit me
And it’s a little bit you, too
It’s a little bit me (ah, a little bit me)
It’s a little bit you (ah, a little bit you)
Girl don’t go (ah, a little bit me)
No, no, no, no, no (ah, a little bit you)
Girl don’t go (ah, a little bit me)
No, no, no, no, no (ah, a little bit you)
Hey girl (ah, a little bit me)
Hey girl (ah, a little bit you)
Please don’t go (ah, a little bit me)