R.E.M. (band)

R.E.M. is a rock band formed in Athens, Georgia in early 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and vocalist Michael Stipe. Throughout the 1980s, while signed to the independent label I.R.S. Records, they achieved a growing cult status due mainly to Stipe's obscure lyrics and the band's sound, most noticeably influenced by the jangly, arpeggio-driven melodies of The Byrds. The band's politics, aesthetics, and hardworking ethos - largely inspired by the early punk and art rock of the 1970s - enabled the group to establish itself quickly as one of the pillars of the U.S.'s burgeoning alternative rock scene. By the early 1990s, R.E.M. were one of the world's most popular, respected, and influential bands.

Legacy

It is hard for a modern alternative rock act to escape the overshadowing influence of R.E.M. One of the most important rock acts today Radiohead cite them as a major influence on their work. Even Radiohead's frontman Thom Yorke and Michael Stipe are close friends. The Britpop scene is drawing of R.E.M.'s material as well with Oasis, Coldplay and Blur influenced by them.

Related Topics:
Radiohead - Thom Yorke - Michael Stipe - Britpop - Oasis - Coldplay - Blur

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