Bobby Hart, the renowned songwriter who co-wrote some of The Monkees’ biggest hits, including “Last Train to Clarksville,” died Wednesday at age 86 after a long illness. Hart passed away on September 10, according to reports.

Born in Phoenix, Robert Luke Harshman, the son of a minister, achieved his greatest success as part of a songwriting duo with Tommy Boyce during the mid-1960s. Together, they penned the theme song for The Monkees television series and wrote several songs featured on the show about the misadventures of a Beatles-esque rock band.

Hart and Boyce’s collaborative work produced numerous hits for The Monkees, including “Valleri,” “I Wanna Be Free,” “(I’m Not Your) Steppin’ Stone,” and “Words.” Their songwriting partnership helped define the sound of one of the era’s most popular television shows and musical acts.

Mickey Dolenz, The Monkees’ last surviving member, issued a statement honoring Hart’s contributions. Dolenz indicated that Hart, along with Boyce, who died in 1994, made vital contributions not only to the popular success of The Monkees but to the essence and spirit of the entire venture. He praised Hart’s talent, charisma, good humor and calmness during what he described as a maniacal rollercoaster ride that often brought peace to everyone around him. “He was the stillness that is the eye of the hurricane,” Dolenz stated.

Beyond their work with The Monkees, Hart and Boyce expanded their creative output to television. The duo wrote the theme song for the long-running soap opera “Days of Our Lives.” Throughout the 1960s, they became familiar faces on television, appearing on popular shows including “Bewitched,” “The Flying Nun,” and “I Dream of Jeannie.”

Hart’s songwriting versatility extended across multiple genres and artists. He co-wrote “Hurt So Bad,” which achieved success through covers by Little Anthony and the Imperials, The Lettermen, and most notably, Linda Ronstadt. The song “Come a Little Bit Closer” also found commercial success with Jay and the Americans in 1964.

The songwriting duo also achieved success as recording artists. Hart and Boyce had their own hit with “I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonight” in 1967, demonstrating their abilities both behind the scenes and as performers.

Hart maintained connections to the country music world throughout his career. He co-wrote “Over You” with Austin Roberts for the Robert Duvall film “Tender Mercies.” The song earned recognition with an Academy Award nomination in 1983, showcasing Hart’s ability to craft music for film as well as television and radio.

His wife, MaryAnn, released a statement reflecting on Hart’s impact both professionally and personally. She noted that Hart’s songwriting work accurately articulated youthful energy and emotions to the world, while his personal character brought happiness, contentment and peace into their home.

Hart’s career spanned several decades and encompassed multiple aspects of the entertainment industry. From writing television theme songs that became cultural touchstones to crafting pop hits that resonated with audiences across generations, his work helped shape the sound of American popular music during a transformative period.

The songwriter’s death marks the end of an era for fans of 1960s pop music and The Monkees franchise. His collaborations with Boyce created a catalog of songs that continue to reverberate with audiences decades after their initial release, cementing Hart’s place in American popular music history.

Hart’s contributions to television and popular music extended far beyond his most famous work with The Monkees. His ability to craft memorable melodies and lyrics across different genres and medums established him as a versatile and enduring figure in the entertainment industry throughout his 86 years.