Bags' Blog

The end of R.E.M. (And I feel fine)

Growing up in the south I always felt like R.E.M. belonged more to me than the rest of the world. They came out of the southeast in a time then only rednecks and athletes seemed to be the only thing it [southeast] could produce. I remember first seeing them on David Letterman playing “South Central Rain” and from then on was a fan. 

The last time I saw them was the infamous ”lightning show” at Jones Beach where the show had to stop but they came on late, paid the extra union dues, played their full set and even threw in the retired “End of the World (And I feel Fine)” as the monsoon seemed to give that sort of feel.

I’m rather sad about it all but 31 years is a long time to live the life and do what they did so frankly they earned the hammock and flip flop days they have coming to them though I’d wager they all still keep busy with various projects.

So long boys. Thanks for the memories, great shows and making my life that much more tolerable because of the amazing music you created. 

(Yes, even “Shiny Happy People”)

21 September 2011 ·

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