Michael Nesmith, singer and guitarist with the Monkees, dies aged 78

Family say pop songwriter from chart-topping 1960s band died of natural causes at home

Michael Nesmith, who achieved global fame as a member of the pop group the Monkees, has died aged 78.

With infinite love we announce that Michael Nesmith has passed away this morning in his home, surrounded by family, peacefully and of natural causes," his family said in a statement. We ask that you respect our privacy at this time and we thank you for the love and light that all of you have shown him and us."