Inducted:
2007
Category:
Performer
Inducted By:
Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam)
As R.E.M. ascended from scrappy college rock beginnings to arenas, they achieved global stardom on their own terms. Morphing from chiming folk rock to mandolin-driven radio pop to singalong stadium anthems, their outsider status remained intact, their collaborative band identity solid. In every aspect of their journey, the band created an alt-rock template that inspired both artists and legions of fans worldwide.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
Melodic, Introspective Alt Rock
R.E.M. burst from early ‘80s Athens, GA, with a distinctive mix of jangle-pop guitar, propulsive rhythms, intriguing, inscrutable vocals, and a renowned live show. Evolving into a ‘90s and ‘00s arena act, they added synth, fuzz guitar, power ballads and anthems aplenty, remaining both accessible and slyly innovative.
The band’s jangly, punk-poppy DIY debut sounded like nothing else, and led to their IRS record deal. It was added to the Library of Congress in 2009.
From the Museum
Rhinestoned R.E.M.
Bassist Mike Mills first donned a rhinestoned “Nudie suit” in 1994 during R.E.M.’s Monster tour. He then commissioned a series of lavish ensembles from foremost Western designer Manuel (previously Nudie’s head designer), who created this jacket (with matching pants).
“When you put one of these suits on,” said Mills, “you become a different person, but I tend to be that when I walk out onstage anyway.”
From the Museum
Rhinestoned R.E.M.
Bassist Mike Mills first donned a rhinestoned “Nudie suit” in 1994 during R.E.M.’s Monster tour. He then commissioned a series of lavish ensembles from foremost Western designer Manuel (previously Nudie’s head designer), who created this jacket (with matching pants).
“When you put one of these suits on,” said Mills, “you become a different person, but I tend to be that when I walk out onstage anyway.”
If I could write just a couple of songs as good as what they’ve written... They’ve dealt with their success like saints, and they keep delivering great music.
Kurt Cobain
Nirvana
2007 Hall of Fame Essay
"In a quiet, determined, immensely effective and deeply affecting way, R.E.M. stood counter to all those trends."
– Anthony DeCurtis
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Paper artifacts
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Influence
Influences
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R.E.M.
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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