This paper numerically and experimentally investigates the relationship between the nonlinear normal modes and the forced response of a clamped-clamped cross beam structure. The system possesses closely-spaced linear modes such that the applied force distribution across the structure plays a central role in the appropriation of the nonlinear normal modes. Numerical simulations show that the quadrature conditions of the forced response does not necessarily match the peak response nor the nonlinear normal modes of the underlying conservative system, but instead are dependent upon the applied excitation. Experimental investigations performed with a single-point excitation and control based continuation further demonstrate the necessity for appropriate forcing in order to extract the NNMs of such systems.</p
