R.E.M.
As part of a series, this blog delves into the songs and bands that have shaped my love of music. By sharing these stories, I hope to entertain and introduce you to new music or reintroduce you to music you previously enjoyed.
Who Wants Free Pizza
In 1984, I found myself navigating university life in a '76 Pontiac Firebird with nothing but an AM radio to keep me company. While Tina Turner, Lionel Ritchie, Cyndi Lauper, and Culture Club dominated the airwaves, they weren't quite my cup of musical tea.
In 1984 I was also a student at the University of Manitoba. Every Friday afternoon, the U of M students union threw beer and free pizza “rallies”, offering cheap brews, free slices, and when it came to music, a relief from the incessant top 40 hits. Picture a student lounge filled with a couple hundred students, the aroma of stinky beer, pizza, and the unconventional sounds of REM's "Little America" from their freshly released "Reckoning" album echoing through the space. That was my introduction to REM’s music.
Liner notes from REM’s 1984 album Reckoning
Timeless
"The biggest wagon is the empty wagon is the noisiest" – those lyrics clung to my mind like a catchy tune you can't shake. Those early REM albums—Murmur, Reckoning, Document, Green, and Life’s Rich Pageant—became the anthems of my university and early adult years. In 2024 those lyrics continue to ring true.
Now, fast forward to 2006. I've swapped the Firebird for an SUV, gained a wife, and become a dad to two daughters. Cruising home from a pickup basketball game with my 6-year-old daughter (her favourite pastime is watching Dad missed three-pointers), I slipped in REM's "Automatic for the People" CD. It was a cold January evening, as "Nightswimming" played the car fell into a hushed silence as we both listened. Great music is instantly recognizable to the listener, even a 6-year-old. That track remains one of my daughter's all-time favourites, proving the enduring power of timeless music.
The Band
Athens, Georgia, 1980 marked the birth of REM—Michael Stipe (vocals), Peter Buck (guitar), Mike Mills (bass), and Bill Berry (drums). From alternative rock to folk, punk, and country, their eclectic style set them apart and propelled them to iconic status in the rock music annals.
"Murmur" and "Reckoning" paved the way, leading to timeless masterpieces like "Automatic for the People" and "Up." What sets REM apart is their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity over commercial success throughout their career. Always a great reason to love a band, authenticity.
Their influence spans eras, and their dedication to craft has birthed unforgettable, impactful music. REM isn't just a band; they're a source of inspiration for musicians and music aficionados worldwide, a legacy destined to resonate far into the future. REM is a testament to the enduring power of genuine, groundbreaking artistry—a force that will undoubtedly captivate generations to come.
One metric we can use to evaluate the quality of music, art and graphic design is how did stand the test of time. REM has held onto it’s fans for over 40 years, while continuing to attract new listeners.
Success
Evaluating the success of band is not just about record sales or radio play, although REM has had plenty of that. I my opinion, real success is measured by how the music impacts others, creates memories, and stands the test of time. REM's music has deeply impacted their fans, connecting great music with unforgettable life moments. The band's music has remained steadfast, solidifying its place in musical history. Mission accomplished.
Give it a listen: