R.E.M. performed onstage together for first time in well over decade, reuniting to play their classic “Losing My Religion” as they were inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame.Michael Stipe, Peter Buck and Mike Mills broke up in 2011, and last time all four members played onstage together-Bill Berry left in 1997 was in 2007.

But entrance into who’s who of music that is prestigious songwriting pantheon got band back together.“Songwriting is very foundation of why we came together in first place,” lead vocalist Michael Stipes told AFP. “We’re really proud.”Band was inducted by Jason Isbell, who performed cover of R.E.M’s “It’s The End of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” at event. “R.E.M. was greater than sum of its parts. R.E.M. moved like single instrument,” Isbell said.Songwriters Hall of Fame celebrates its inductees with festive dinner and intimate concert instead of televised event.Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael-duo known as The Bacon Brothers- opened show with foot-stomping rendition of “Footloose,” Oscar-nominated title track of hit 1984 film of same name.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 15 2024

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