R.e.m.

Definition

R.E.M. is an American rock band formed in 1980, known for its significant impact on the alternative rock scene and its contributions to popular music. The band's innovative sound combined jangly guitars, poetic lyrics, and a distinctive vocal style, which helped pave the way for the alternative rock movement in the 1980s and 1990s. R.E.M.'s approach to music challenged mainstream conventions and embraced a more artistic and introspective ethos, influencing countless bands that followed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. R.E.M. was formed in Athens, Georgia, and gained early recognition for their energetic live performances and unique sound.
2. Their 1991 album 'Out of Time' included hit singles like 'Losing My Religion,' which became one of their most recognizable songs.
3. The band's use of obscure lyrics and non-traditional song structures set them apart from many of their contemporaries.
4. R.E.M. was one of the first bands to achieve commercial success while still remaining firmly rooted in the indie music scene.
5. The band's influence extended beyond music; they were known for their activism on various social and political issues.

Review Questions

• How did R.E.M.'s music challenge the conventions of mainstream rock during their rise in popularity?
  • R.E.M. challenged mainstream rock conventions by embracing an alternative sound characterized by jangly guitars and ambiguous lyrics. Their artistic approach emphasized introspection and innovation, setting them apart from the more commercial rock bands of the time. This unique style allowed them to attract a dedicated fanbase while influencing a wave of alternative bands that followed, ultimately reshaping the landscape of popular music.
• Discuss the significance of R.E.M.'s album 'Out of Time' in relation to their career and the evolution of alternative rock.
  • The album 'Out of Time' marked a pivotal moment in R.E.M.'s career as it catapulted them into mainstream success while retaining their indie roots. Featuring iconic tracks like 'Losing My Religion,' the album showcased their innovative sound and lyrical depth, solidifying R.E.M.'s position as leaders in the alternative rock movement. Its commercial success proved that alternative rock could resonate with a wider audience, paving the way for future bands within the genre.
• Evaluate R.E.M.'s impact on the alternative and indie rock scenes, considering both their musical innovations and cultural influences.
  • R.E.M.'s impact on alternative and indie rock is profound, as they not only pioneered a distinctive sound but also redefined what it meant to be a successful band outside the major label system. Their innovative use of lyrical ambiguity and unique musical structures inspired countless artists to explore more personal and unconventional themes in their work. Additionally, R.E.M.'s commitment to social activism established a precedent for musicians to engage with cultural issues, demonstrating that music could be both commercially viable and socially relevant.

Related terms

Alternative Rock: A genre of music that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by its departure from mainstream rock norms, often featuring unconventional sounds and themes.

Indie Music: Music produced independently from major commercial record labels, often emphasizing artistic expression and a DIY ethic.

Jangle Pop: A subgenre of pop music that features bright, chiming guitars, often associated with bands like R.E.M. and The Byrds.