ZZ Top: I remember listening to some of their Albums in the late 70's, and liking them. They became 'formularised' which you have to if you want to make money as a Band, and promote Videos. I feel they kind of packaged and popularised some traditional 'Texas Blues' sounds which was quite clever.
Really sucks not getting to see Bands in their own environment, living in Aus.
When I read about "The Monkeys" I was sure they hadn't written their songs, I may be wrong.
After some searching came across:
Pleasant Valley Sunday by The Monkees
http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=3885Gerry Goffin and Carole King wrote this about Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange, New Jersey, where they lived at the time. The Monkees fourth single, it is an ode to the simple life in happy suburbia.
I'm A Believer by The Monkees
http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=2135Neil Diamond wrote this song.
The Monkees sang on this, but did not play any instruments. The producers used session musicians because they were not convinced The Monkees could play like a real band. This became a huge point of contention, as the group fought to play their own songs.Suppose the thing is The Monkeys are remembered for doing these songs and having huge hits. The TV show was their main vehicle for promoting the songs, however they probably could have been a successful band ?
Was fun back in the day watching their show on TV.