Monkees Singer Davy Jones Dies at 66

Picture: Billboard

UPDATE: Fellow Monkees Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork have issued statements.

Dolenz saying, “Can’t believe it…Still in shock…had bad dreams all night long.”

He added, “My love and prayers go out to Davy’s girls and family right now.”

Tork said, “It is with great sadness that I reflect on the sudden passing of my long-time friend and fellow-adventurer, David Jones.

His talent will be much missed; his gifts will be with us always. My deepest sympathy to Jessica and the rest of his family.

Adios, to the Manchester Cowboy.”

Davy Jones of the The Monkees, who sang lead on many of the band’s hits, died of a heart attack Wednesday morning in Florida, his rep confirms with TMZ.

The  Martin County medical examiner’s office received a call from Martin Memorial Hospital informing them that Jones had died. He was 66.

Jones was the youngest member of the hit-making Monkees, a pre-fabricated rock quartet formed in 1965 to star in a television show of the same name. His good looks and charming British accent paired well with the American members of the group, drummer-singer Micky Dolenz, guitarist Michael Nesmith and bassist Peter Tork.

Jones was born in Manchester, England, and began his career as a teen actor and appeared as the Artful Dodger in a West End production of “Oliver!” He later moved to the Broadway production where he earned a Tony nomination.

The Monkees, who released nine albums between 1966 and 1970 where Jones sang lead on hits including “Daydream Believer” and “I Wanna Be Free,” “Shades of Gray” and “Valleri.”

Jones is survived by his wife Jessica and four daughters.

Source: Billboard.com