R.E.M. broke out of the vibrant Athens, Ga. music scene in the early 1980s. They toiled for much of the decade in the American rock underground of what would become "alternative" music, and recorded several now-legendary albums before mainstream success came with 1987's Document. Singer Michael Stipe played the role of reluctant rock star before anyone knew who Kurt Cobain was.
From R.E.M.'s official website, remhq.com:
"To our Fans and Friends: As R.E.M., and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band. We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening." – R.E.M.
In their own words: The guys share their thoughts on why now after the jump…
This article appears in Sep 22-28, 2011.