All Of It: Full Bio - R.E.M. Ascend

Podcast: All Of It
Host: Alison Stewart
Episode: R.E.M. Ascend (Full Bio)
Release Date: December 17, 2024
Produced by: WNYC

Introduction to R.E.M. and Peter Ames Carlin’s Biography

Alison Stewart opens the episode by introducing Peter Ames Carlin’s biography, The Name of This Band Is R.E.M., highlighting the band’s significant impact on alternative rock. She notes that R.E.M. has sold over 85 million albums and is often credited with pioneering the alternative rock genre. Referencing The New Yorker, Alison shares, "R.E.M. has emerged with their sound in place, a self-assured combination of sparseness and warmth, of New Wave and folk rock that was influenced by the New York bands of the '70s, but was unambiguously their own" [00:16].

Defining Alternative Rock and R.E.M.’s Contribution

The discussion delves into the essence of alternative rock in the early '80s, characterized by its artistic, raw, and less mainstream approach compared to the polished sounds dominating the charts. A listener explains:

"Alternative rock or independent rock... was more raw, far less studied, far more elemental... R.E.M. found their own combination of those things... creating their own rules and sounds that didn’t conform to what everyone else was doing" [02:25].

This segment underscores how R.E.M. embodied the rebellious and experimental spirit of alternative rock, distinguishing themselves from contemporaries through their unique sound and approach.

R.E.M.’s Band Philosophy and Songwriting Credits

Alison probes into the band's decision to credit all members equally for songwriting. The podcast reveals that Peter Buck, drawing from industry insights, preemptively addressed potential conflicts over royalties and credit by ensuring all four members received equal recognition for their contributions. This egalitarian approach was tested early on with the song “Don’t Go Back to Rockville,” where Mike Mills had written the track, but all members shared the credit without dispute [10:18].

Early Business Moves and Ownership of Masters

The conversation shifts to R.E.M.’s early business dealings, particularly their relationship with Johnny Hibbert, who owned the publishing rights to their first two songs due to an initial record deal. Listener explains:

"Burtis Downs, their lawyer, advised them early on that the most valuable asset was their publishing rights. Eventually, they negotiated to regain control of their publishing when they signed with IRS Records" [12:18].

This strategic move ensured the band retained creative and financial control over their music, a pivotal decision in their sustained success.

Collaborations with Producers: Mitch Easter and Don Gehman

R.E.M.’s collaboration with producers Mitch Easter and Don Gehman played a crucial role in shaping their sound. Alison highlights the production of their debut album Murmur with Mitch Easter, emphasizing its layered and textured sound that became a hallmark of their early music [23:53]. Easter's production techniques, such as incorporating sounds like billiard balls rattling across a table, contributed to the album's dreamlike quality.

Transitioning to Don Gehman, known for his work with John Cougar Mellencamp, R.E.M. sought a more mainstream yet textured sound for their album Life’s Rich Pageant. Listener elaborates:

"Gehman pushed Michael Stipe to sing more clearly and write more direct lyrics, leading to Life’s Rich Pageant becoming both an artistic and commercial success" [26:55].

This partnership marked a significant evolution in R.E.M.’s music, balancing their alternative roots with broader accessibility.

Embracing Scott Litt and Refining Their Sound

After parting ways with Gehman, R.E.M. began working with Scott Litt, whose collaboration would span six records. Alison discusses how Litt became an integral part of the band’s creative process, effectively becoming a “sixth member.” Listener notes:

"Litt understood R.E.M.’s vision, helping them refine their sound to resonate both independently and on mainstream radio. His work on Document produced their first major hit, 'The One I Love,' which showcased a darker, more polished rock sound" [31:54].

This partnership solidified R.E.M.’s position in the music industry, allowing them to maintain their unique identity while achieving greater commercial success.

Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

Alison wraps up the episode by summarizing R.E.M.’s journey through their formative years, emphasizing their strategic decisions in songwriting credits, business dealings, and producer collaborations that shaped their enduring legacy. She teases the next episode, which will explore R.E.M.’s touring schedule, internal band dynamics, and managerial challenges [35:34].

Notable Quotes:

• Peter Buck on Vocal Style:
  "What became my vocal style probably had to do with Mike's love of the Ramones and R.E.M.'s penchant for writing really fast, really frenetic songs... I slowed the songs down by making my part much, much slower" [06:29].

• Michael Stipe on Music Videos:
  "They either invest in avant-garde art projects or stick to their unique aesthetic, refusing to conform to standard music video tropes like lip-syncing" [15:31].

• Scott Litt on R.E.M.'s Sound Evolution:
  "We created a sound that allowed R.E.M. to stay uniquely independent while resonating with mainstream audiences" [31:54].

Final Thoughts:

This episode of All Of It offers an in-depth exploration of R.E.M.’s foundational years, shedding light on their innovative approach to music, steadfast commitment to artistic integrity, and strategic collaborations that propelled them to becoming icons of alternative rock. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this summary encapsulates the key elements that define R.E.M.’s enduring legacy.