REM Tickets

R.E.M was absolutely pivotal in the development of the alt-rock genre in the mid-80s, marking the moment when post-rock became alternative rock, breaking away from New Wave genres of the late 70s and early 80s. Not only did they form a genre of music, they paved the way for underground artists across the globe to become success without bowing before the industry, staying true to their individual sound.

The group formed in 1980 when Michael Stipe and Peter Buck met in a music store in Georgia. The two met University of Georgia students Mike Mills and Bill Berry, and they began to perform together. The band developed a massive following in the south, particularly in Athens, Ga. There was no alt rock touring circuit when they were drumming up support, so getting around was difficult.

R.E.M. released "Murmur" in 1983 off of the I.R.S. label. The band refused to incorporate guitar solos or synthesized sound that was popular at the time, and their determination to musical integrity paid off - Rollin Stone Magazine listed it as Record of the Year. The band continued to release critically successful albums that were ignored by mainstream media but invaluable to the genre of alt rock.

In 1987, the group released their breakthrough album "Document," which included the hit "The One I Love," prompting Rolling Stone to herald the group as "Americas Best Rock & Roll Band." The follow-up, "Green" off of Warner Bros. in 1988, included the hits "Stand" and "Orange Crush." The album has sold more than four million copies across the globe.

In 1991, the group released "Out of Time" after taking a year off. The first single was "Losing My Religion," R.E.M.s most successful single to date - the collection also included the hit "Shiny Happy People," which featured B-52s vocalist Kate Pierson. "Automatic for the People" was another massive success, including the hits "Everybody Hurts," "Drive" and "Man on the Moon." The collection sold over 10 million copies over the years.

The band offered up two slower albums in 1994 and 1996, but they produced the notable tracks "Whats the Frequency, Kenneth?" and "Band and Blame." The group took off on a massive tour in 1995 and while many health issues plagued the group, it was still a success.

Berry quit the band in 1997, and the group had less commercial success in the following years, save some best-of collections. It was clear, however, what an impact they made on the music industry and the inspiration they provided for the groups that followed in their footsteps.

It is time, however, for them to step back into the limelight - they will release "Accelerate" in 2008, with an expected tour to follow. Time to influence a new generation of up-and-coming rockers!