Robert Michael Nesmith was an American singer, songwriter, actor, producer, novelist, businessman, and philanthropist best known as a member of the Monkees and co-star of the TV series The Monkees (1966–1968).
“Different Drum” is one of Nesmith’s songwriting credits (sung by Linda Ronstadt with the Stone Poneys).
Following the Monkees’ disbandment, Nesmith maintained his successful songwriting and playing career, first with the legendary country-rock band the First National Band, with whom he had a top-40 hit with “Joanne,” and later as a solo artist.
He was a 12-string guitar player who performed with the Monkees on a custom-built Gretsch electric guitar and later on several 12-string acoustic variants.
Why did Michael Nesmith wear a hat?
Nesmith landed the role partly due to his laid-back demeanor during the audition. He arrived at the audition on his motorcycle, wearing a wool hat to keep his hair out of his eyes; producers Bob Rafelson and Bert Schneider recognized the “wool hat” person and called Nesmith back.