R.e.m.

Definition

R.E.M. is an American rock band formed in 1980 that played a significant role in shaping the alternative music scene of the 1980s and 1990s. Known for their jangly guitars and cryptic lyrics, R.E.M. helped to bring indie and alternative music into the mainstream, paving the way for countless bands that followed. Their innovative approach to songwriting and performance created a unique sound that resonated with a generation seeking authenticity in music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. R.E.M.'s breakthrough album, 'Murmur,' was released in 1983 and received critical acclaim, establishing them as pioneers of the alternative rock genre.
2. The band's distinctive sound is often attributed to their use of unconventional song structures and abstract lyrics, which encouraged listeners to interpret the music personally.
3. R.E.M. was one of the first bands to utilize college radio effectively for promotion, helping them build a dedicated fanbase and reach wider audiences.
4. They achieved significant commercial success with albums like 'Out of Time' and 'Automatic for the People,' solidifying their status as major players in the music industry without compromising their indie roots.
5. The band's influence extends beyond music; they were involved in social and political activism, using their platform to advocate for various causes, including environmentalism and LGBTQ+ rights.

Review Questions

• How did R.E.M. contribute to the evolution of alternative rock during the 1980s?
  • R.E.M. played a crucial role in the evolution of alternative rock by blending elements of punk, folk, and pop into their sound while maintaining a distinct artistic identity. Their debut album 'Murmur' set a new standard for independent music with its jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, influencing numerous bands in the genre. Their rise to popularity helped to legitimize alternative rock as a viable commercial genre, opening doors for other indie bands to gain mainstream attention.
• Discuss the impact of R.E.M.'s use of college radio on their success and the broader indie music scene.
  • R.E.M. strategically utilized college radio as a platform for promotion, which allowed them to reach an audience that was eager for new and authentic music outside the mainstream. This approach not only built a dedicated fanbase but also influenced other indie artists to seek similar avenues for exposure. The band's success through college radio showcased how independent musicians could gain recognition without relying on major record labels, significantly impacting the indie music scene's dynamics.
• Evaluate R.E.M.'s lasting legacy in both music and social activism, considering how these aspects intertwine.
  • R.E.M.'s lasting legacy is rooted not only in their innovative contributions to alternative rock but also in their commitment to social activism. They used their fame to advocate for important causes such as environmental sustainability and LGBTQ+ rights, demonstrating how musicians can leverage their platforms for positive change. This intertwining of artistry and activism has inspired countless artists to embrace similar responsibilities, ensuring that R.E.M.'s influence extends beyond music into broader societal impacts.

Related terms

Alternative Rock: A genre of rock music that emerged in the 1980s and became widely popular in the 1990s, characterized by its rejection of the mainstream commercial sound.

Indie Music: Music produced independently from major commercial record labels, often associated with a DIY ethos and a focus on artistic expression over commercial success.

Jangle Pop: A subgenre of alternative rock characterized by its use of bright, chiming guitars and melodic hooks, closely associated with R.E.M.'s early sound.