Just a few hours after saying on CBS Mornings that it would take “a comet” for them to play together again, R.E.M. reunited on stage.
Michael Stipe, Mike Mills, Peter Buck, and Bill Berry surprised everyone by performing “Losing My Religion” at the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York. It was their first performance in 15 years at the Marriot Marquis Hotel. Check out the crowd’s video below.
During his speech at the event, Stipe shared that creating songs and having a body of work they’re proud of is what mattered most to them as a band. He emphasized how special it was that they stayed close friends over the years. He also mentioned how early on they decided to own their masters and share royalties equally among themselves, committing to an “all for one and one for all” approach. Their journey had its ups and downs but was always exciting.
I think it’s really cool when bands stay friends even after so many years.
Their last official concert before this surprise event was back in 2008 in Mexico City, which you can find documented on YouTube. Since their split in 2011, they’ve occasionally released rare tracks for good causes and have been working on reissuing old albums like Up.
If you’re curious about more insights from Michael Stipe, check out Ryan Dombal’s interview titled “Michael Stipe on the Music That Made Him.”
