Michael Stipe highlighted their strength as a group and early endeavors to own their master recordings and split songwriting credits equally.
During the 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, R.E.M. reunited for a surprise acoustic performance of “Losing My Religion,” marking the highlight of the night. The band’s Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe, known for iconic alt-rock hits like “Everybody Hurts” and “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine),” stunned the audience with their unexpected performance.
In his speech, Stipe praised the group’s unity, noting their early efforts to control their master recordings and ensure an equal split of songwriting credits. He acknowledged the faith that many had placed in them over the years.
The evening also honored other influential songwriters, such as Steely Dan and Timbaland. Steely Dan’s Donald Fagen, co-founder with the late Walter Becker, thanked his late partner during his acceptance speech. Timbaland also wowed the crowd with a medley of his hit songs. Other honorees included Jason Isbell, who covered R.E.M.’s hit “It’s the End of the World as We Know It,” and Nashville hitmaker Hillary Lindsey, who was inducted for her songwriting achievements.
The event was a celebration of the profound impact these artists have had on the music industry.
