R.E.M.

Definition

R.E.M. was an American rock band formed in 1980, known for its influential sound that blended elements of alternative rock, folk-rock, and post-punk. They played a key role in the rise of alternative music in the 1980s and 1990s, with their introspective lyrics and unique musical style influencing countless bands and artists that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. R.E.M.'s debut album, 'Murmur,' released in 1983, is often credited with bringing alternative rock into the mainstream music scene.
2. The band's sound was distinguished by Michael Stipe's distinctive vocal style and Peter Buck's jangly guitar riffs, which set them apart from their contemporaries.
3. R.E.M. was one of the first bands to gain widespread attention through college radio, paving the way for future alternative acts.
4. Their 1991 album 'Out of Time' featured the hit single 'Losing My Religion,' which became one of their most recognizable songs and expanded their audience significantly.
5. R.E.M. disbanded in 2011 after more than three decades of influential music-making, leaving a lasting legacy on the alternative and mainstream music scenes.

Review Questions

• How did R.E.M. contribute to the development of alternative rock music in the 1980s?
  • R.E.M. played a crucial role in shaping the alternative rock scene during the 1980s by blending various influences like folk-rock and post-punk, which resonated with an underground audience. Their unique sound, characterized by jangly guitars and introspective lyrics, helped define what would become the alternative genre. Additionally, their success on college radio demonstrated that there was a viable market for non-mainstream music, encouraging other bands to pursue similar paths.
• Discuss the impact of R.E.M.'s 'Out of Time' album on both their career and the broader music landscape.
  • 'Out of Time' marked a significant turning point for R.E.M., propelling them into mainstream success with hits like 'Losing My Religion.' This album not only showcased their ability to craft memorable melodies and poignant lyrics but also solidified their place as pioneers in alternative rock. The album's commercial success opened doors for other alternative bands, showing that independent music could thrive in a market dominated by pop and rock acts.
• Evaluate how R.E.M.'s influence can be seen in contemporary music and identify specific artists or bands that reflect this legacy.
  • R.E.M.'s influence is evident in contemporary music through the continued popularity of introspective songwriting and diverse musical styles among new artists. Bands like The National and Death Cab for Cutie embody elements of R.E.M.'s jangly guitar work and thoughtful lyrics, reflecting their legacy in today's indie and alternative scenes. Furthermore, R.E.M.'s embrace of DIY ethics and independent distribution has inspired countless musicians to pursue authenticity over commercial appeal, reinforcing their lasting impact on the music industry.

Related terms

Alternative Rock: A genre of music that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by its independence from mainstream rock and its embrace of diverse influences and sounds.

College Rock: A subgenre of alternative rock that gained popularity on college radio stations in the 1980s, featuring bands like R.E.M. that appealed to an underground audience.

Grunge: A subgenre of alternative rock that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, characterized by its heavy use of distorted guitars and angst-filled lyrics, influenced by bands like R.E.M.