Davy Jones of The Monkees dies at age 66 of heart attack

Associated Press

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.

Davy Jones, the diminutive heartthrob who rocketed to the top of the 1960s music charts by beckoning millions of adoring fans while singing the catchy refrains of The Monkees, died Wednesday. He was 66.

His publicist, Helen Kensick, confirmed that Jones died of a heart attack near his home in Indiantown. Jones complained of breathing troubles in the morning and was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead, said Rhonda Irons, spokeswoman of the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.

In a 911 call released Wednesday night, an unidentified woman anxiously pleads “Ambulance, please, hurry!” His home was about 27 miles from the hospital, and a fire rescue unit rushed him to the hospital.

Jones’ moppish long hair, boyish good looks and his British accent endeared him to legions of screaming young fans after “The Monkees” premiered on NBC in 1966 as a made-for-TV band seeking to capitalize on Beatlemania.

Aspirations of Beatles-like fame were never fully achieved, with the TV show lasting just two years. But The Monkees made rock ’n’ roll history as the band garnered a wide American following with love-struck hits such as “Daydream Believer” and “I’m a Believer” that endure to this day.

Born in Manchester, England, on Dec. 30, 1945, Jones became a child star in his native England who appeared on television and stage, including a heralded role as “The Artful Dodger” in the play “Oliver.”

He earned a Tony nomination at 16 when he reprised that role in the show’s Broadway production.

The Monkees were supported by enviable talent.

Carole King and Gerry Goffin wrote “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” and Neil Diamond penned “I’m a Believer.” Musicians who played on their records included Billy Preston, Glen Campbell, Leon Russell, Ry Cooder and Neil Young.

Young tweeted Wednesday that he was saddened by Jones’ death. “The Monkees were such a sensation that it was a thrill for me to have them record some of my early songs,” he added.

Fellow Monkee Peter Tork spoke of his former bandmate in an interview Wednesday night, saying “He was one of the funniest men and most talented I have ever known.” Bandmate Mike Nesmith said in a statement, “David’s spirit and soul live well in my heart, among all the lovely people.”

Jones is survived by his wife, Jessica Pacheco, and four daughters from previous marriages.