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Tuesday, November 4, 2025

R.E.M. - Radio Song

Music Appreciation

Released on November 4, 1991, "Radio Song" served as the opening track and fourth single from R.E.M.'s seventh album, Out of Time. Lead singer Michael Stipe wrote the lyrics, expressing his frustration with the staleness of mainstream radio. 

Stipe invited KRS-One, leader of Boogie Down Productions, to contribute to the track, adding a hip-hop flair that contrasted with the song's critique of radio content.

The composition of "Radio Song" blends alternative rock with hip-hop elements, a testament to R.E.M.'s experimental approach during this period. The track features jangly guitars characteristic of Peter Buck, alongside funk-inspired basslines from Mike Mills. KRS-One's distinctive interjections and rap verses infuse the song with an unexpected dynamic, reflecting the band's willingness to push genre boundaries.

The accompanying music video, directed by Peter Care, showcases the band performing in a minimalist setting, interspersed with abstract imagery, and emphasizes the song's themes of media saturation and the search for authenticity. 

While not achieving significant commercial success, the video was appreciated by fans for its artistic approach and alignment with the band's critique of mainstream media. 



Sources:

Wikipedia

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7789986/

https://www.murmurs.com/t/rem-music-videos-that-make-you-say-why-tf-is-this-a-video/1294 

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