When it comes to music, one of the most well-known and respected bands of the 1980s and 1990s was REM. Their unique sound and style set them apart from their peers, and they enjoyed considerable success during their time as a band. However, many people are unsure of what REM actually stands for. In this article, we will explore the untold truth behind the name of one of the most beloved bands of all time.
The Origins of REM
In order to understand what REM stands for, we need to look at the origins of the band. REM was formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980, by singer Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and drummer Bill Berry. The band quickly gained a following for their unique sound and energetic live performances, and they soon signed a record deal with IRS Records.
REM’s first album, Murmur, was released in 1983 and was an instant critical and commercial success. The band’s follow-up albums, Reckoning and Fables of the Reconstruction, cemented their status as one of the most important bands of the time.
What Does REM Stand For?
One of the most common misconceptions about REM is that their name stands for “Rapid Eye Movement”, a term used to describe the sleep state when dreaming occurs. However, this is not the case.
The Real Meaning of REM
In fact, REM is an acronym for “Rapid Eye Movement”, but not in the way that most people think. According to Michael Stipe, the band’s name came about because he was flipping through a dictionary and came across the word “REM”, which was defined as “the rapid eye movement that occurs during the deepest stages of sleep”.
Stipe and the rest of the band liked the sound of the name and decided to adopt it as their own, but they didn’t actually know that it was an acronym until later.
The Success of REM
Despite the confusion surrounding their name, REM continued to enjoy success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Their albums Out of Time and Automatic for the People were both massive commercial successes, and the band continued to tour and release music well into the 2000s.
The Band’s Unique Sound
One of the things that set REM apart from other bands of the time was their unique sound. While they were initially associated with the “jangle pop” genre, their music was much more diverse and experimental than that label suggests.
REM’s music was heavily influenced by the underground music scene of the 1980s, which was characterized by bands such as Sonic Youth, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and The Velvet Underground. This influence can be heard in REM’s use of dissonant guitar textures, unconventional song structures, and poetic, often cryptic lyrics.
The Legacy of REM
Today, REM is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential bands of their time. Their impact can be felt in the music of countless contemporary artists, and their songs remain popular and beloved by fans around the world.
The Band’s Cultural Significance
REM’s influence extends beyond the realm of music. The band was known for their political activism, and their music often dealt with themes of social justice, environmentalism, and anti-authoritarianism. Additionally, REM helped to establish Athens, Georgia, as a hub for alternative music, which has had a lasting impact on the music industry.
Conclusion
So what does REM stand for? While the acronym does have a meaning related to sleep, it is not the same as the one most people associate with the band. Despite this confusion, REM’s unique sound and cultural significance continue to be celebrated and appreciated by fans worldwide.
FAQs
- What genre of music is REM?
- What are some of REM’s most popular songs?
- When did REM disband?
REM is often associated with the “jangle pop” genre, which is characterized by its use of bright, chiming guitars and upbeat, melodic song structures. However, the band’s music is much more diverse and experimental than this label suggests.
Some of REM’s most popular songs include “Losing My Religion”, “Nightswimming”, “Everybody Hurts”, and “Shiny Happy People”.
REM announced their breakup in 2011 after more than 30 years as a band.
References
1. Egan, S. (2016). The Story of REM. Overlook Press.
2. Buckley, D. (2006). R.E.M.: Fiction. Penguin Books.
3. Fricke, D. (2011). Perfect Circle: The Story of REM. Music Sales Group.