Peter Tork

Date of Birth: February 13, 1942

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: February 21, 2019

Biography

Peter Tork, born Peter Halsten Thorkelson, was an American musician, actor, and member of the iconic 1960s pop band The Monkees. Born in Washington, D.C., Tork was the son of Virginia Hope (née Straus) and Halsten John Thorkelson, an economics professor. Peter’s musical talents flourished early; he learned to play multiple instruments, including the guitar, bass, piano, and banjo. Tork moved to New York City in the early 1960s, where he became a part of the burgeoning Greenwich Village folk scene. His big break came when Stephen Stills, a friend from the folk circuit, recommended him for a new television show about a fictional rock band. Tork auditioned and was cast as the lovable, goofy bass player for The Monkees, a show that became an instant hit. The Monkees not only succeeded on television but also became a real band, producing hits like “Last Train to Clarksville,” “I’m a Believer,” and “Daydream Believer.” After The Monkees disbanded in 1971, Tork pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists. He also taught music and performed with his bands, including Shoe Suede Blues. Tork continued to make music and perform until his death in 2019 due to complications from a rare cancer, adenoid cystic carcinoma.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter Tork

1. Peter Tork was fluent in multiple instruments, including the guitar, bass, piano, and banjo.

2. Before joining The Monkees, Tork was part of the Greenwich Village folk scene and was recommended for the show by Stephen Stills.

3. Tork contributed not just musically but also as a songwriter for The Monkees, co-writing songs like “For Pete’s Sake.”

4. He struggled with substance abuse issues after The Monkees disbanded but eventually recovered and became a sober advocate.

5. Tork was also a dedicated teacher, imparting music knowledge to students between his performance gigs.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Peter Tork

1. “I was hired to be an actor. I was not hired to be a musician.”

2. “The whole idea of The Monkees was that we were supposed to be a rock ‘n’ roll band. But the producers never had any idea that we would become a real band.”

3. “Pop music is aspirin and the blues are vitamins.”

4. “I am a believer in the power of music. It can change your mood, your mind, your life.”

5. “Being a Monkee was a great experience, but I’m more than just a Monkee.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Peter Tork’s net worth was estimated to be around $4 million.

Children

Peter Tork had three children: 1. Hallie Elizabeth Thorkelson (born 1970). 2. Ivan Joseph Thorkelson (born 1975). 3. Erica Marie Thorkelson (born 1997).