This signed sheet music is for Different Drum by Michael Nesmith, autographed by the songwriter and trailblazing musician himself. Written in 1965, Different Drum became Nesmith’s first major success as a songwriter when it was recorded in 1967 by The Stone Poneys featuring Linda Ronstadt. Their version, with its baroque pop arrangement and Ronstadt’s soaring vocals, became a hit single, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s theme of independence and the refusal to conform in love resonated deeply with the changing cultural landscape of the 1960s, marking the beginning of Ronstadt’s legendary career while also highlighting Nesmith’s gift for crafting timeless, emotionally honest songs. Michael Nesmith (1942–2021) is best remembered as a member of The Monkees, where he was instrumental in pushing the band toward greater creative control and musical credibility. Beyond his time with The Monkees, Nesmith emerged as a pioneer of country rock with his First National Band, influencing artists like The Eagles, Poco, and Gram Parsons. He also played a key role in the development of music video culture with his PopClips program, which laid the groundwork for MTV. His songwriting, particularly with Different Drum, proved his ability to blend traditional country sensibilities with modern pop, creating music that was both innovative and enduring. Owning this signed sheet music for Different Drum is more than a collectible—it’s a piece of music history tied to one of the most important songs of the 1960s. For fans of Michael Nesmith, admirers of Linda Ronstadt, and collectors of folk-rock and country-rock memorabilia, this artifact represents the brilliance of a songwriter who helped shape both popular music and culture.

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