R.E.M., formed in 1980 in Athens, Georgia, have cemented their place as alternative rock legends. They reached their commercial zenith in the late 1980s and early 1990s with global hits like ‘The One I Love’, ‘Losing My Religion’, ‘Shiny Happy People’, and ‘Everybody Hurts’. Although they officially disbanded in 2011, they reunited on stage earlier this month for a special performance to celebrate their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
This marked R.E.M.’s first live performance since 2007 featuring all four founding members: Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe. The audience was treated to an acoustic version of their timeless 1991 hit ‘Losing My Religion’. The rendition was sublime, with Stipe’s vocals sounding as fresh and powerful as they did in the 1990s, and the interplay of drums and guitars giving the song its unique rhythm.
Fans expressed their joy in the video’s comments section, thrilled to see the legendary band together again. One fan described the lyrics as “beautiful poetry,” while another called the event “like a miracle.” Many shared how much it meant to hear ‘Losing My Religion’ live once more, and some even hoped for a future tour.
For a taste of R.E.M.’s live prowess during their prime, their performance of ‘Losing My Religion’ at the 1999 Glastonbury Festival is a must-watch. The crowd’s cheer as the iconic mandolin riff begins, and Michael Stipe’s distinctive, energetic performance, have made the video one of their most popular, with nearly 5 million views since 2020.
R.E.M.’s brief reunion at the Songwriters Hall of Fame is a monumental moment in alternative rock history. Fans hope this could lead to a full-scale tour, but even if it doesn’t, those who witnessed the reunion will treasure the experience for years to come.