Monkees Singer Mike Nesmith Dies At 78

Michael Nesmith reached enormous fame in the 1960’s as the singer and guitarist of The Monkees. The leader of the fun-loving quartet has sadly passed away at the age of 78. His family says Mike died of natural causes.

TMZ reported the news of the singer and television star’s death. His family gave a brief statement on his passing. He was surrounded by family at the time of his death.

“With infinite Love we announce that Michael Nesmith has passed away this morning in his home, surrounded by family, peacefully of natural causes.”

The Monkees were a hit factory during their peak in the 60’s. They were originally put together for a TV show about a travelling rock band. The music ultimately transcended the television show.

Many of The Monkees greatest hits are still familiar tunes to music listeners today. “Daydream Believer,” “Last Train to Clarksville,” and “I’m a Believer” brought the group success that once rivaled The Beatles. Nesmith fought hard for the band to break away from their beginnings as a manufactured pop group.

In the early days of the show, the band didn’t even play their own instruments. Mike Nesmith played a huge role in the transformation of the group into a real band. He said they wanted to make it on their own merit.

“We were kids with our own taste in music and were happier performing songs we liked — and/or wrote — than songs that were handed to us.”

Michael Nesmith’s influence went far beyond his iconic music. He pitched a music video show called “PopClips” which took the concept of radio and adapted it for television. It later evolved into MTV. The only surviving Monkee is Micky Dolenz. The groups final show took place at the Greek Theatre last month. Our condolences go out to Mike Nesmith’s friends, family, and loved ones.

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