AXS TV celebrates the incredible life and enduring legacy of musician, actor, and rock iconPeter Tork with a special presentation of the intimate 2016 profile piece Rock Legends: The Monkees , airing today at 4:30pE/1:30pP, followed by an encore broadcast of The Monkees’ first-ever live televised concert on Saturday, March 16 at 6:30pE. Additionally, Rock Legends: The Monkees will air on Saturday, March 16 at 7pE for fans that miss it today.
As a multi-talented musician proficient in guitar, bass, keyboards, banjo, and harpsichord, among others, Tork rose to fame in the 1960s as a member of the rock band The Monkees. Tork starred as the loveable bassist in the hit sitcom following the band’s adventures in rock. Putting his vast musical talent on full display, Tork co-wrote the theme song “For Pete’s Sake,” as well as “Lady’s Baby”; crafted the memorable banjo part on “You Told Me”; and—most notably—performed the iconic piano introduction on the band’s signature hit “Daydream Believer.” Following his time with The Monkees, Tork collaborated with George Harrison, embarked on a solo career, and appeared in several guest roles on popular series such as Boy Meets World, 7 Th Heaven , The King Of Queens, andWings. He would continue to perform with The Monkees throughout the years, in various reunion concerts and tours. Tork passed away today, February 21, at the age of 77.
Rock Legends: The Monkees chronicles the band’s improbable rise from fictional act to chart-topping rock sensations, on the strength of catchy songs and innovative marketing. The program features interviews with noted experts and critics, reflecting on the quartet’s musical legacy and the indelible mark they left on pop culture, and also includes a selection of original music videos.
Then, on Saturday, March 16, at 6:30pE, AXS TV presents The Monkees in their first-ever live televised performance. Originally filmed in 2016 during the band’s 50 TH Anniversary Tour, the historic evening captures original members Tork and Mickey Dolenz at the top of their game, as they blaze through unforgettable hits such as “Last Train To Clarksville,” “Papa Gene’s Blues,” “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone,” “Daydream Believer,” and more, in front of a lively crowd.
