Iconic rock band R.E.M. to witness the future of their first single “Radio Free Europe.” The sale proceeds will help fund the news service Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, or RFE/RL. With the organization currently navigating its own new political climate, this rerelease could not have arrived at a more pressing moment. The EP becomes available for streaming this Friday! The album is rich with tracks that celebrate the band’s long-standing ethos of supporting the fight for freedom of speech.
Their five-song EP features the original version of “Radio Free Europe,” along with the Stipe & Eno produced re-recording and a brand new remix by Jacknife Lee. Fans should be excited to hear the B-side “Sitting Still.” They’ll dig the cinematic tone poem “Wh. Tornado” and the never-before-heard remix “Radio Free Dub.” This curated selection serves as a fitting tribute to R.E.M.’s over three-decade connection with the themes of freedom and expression.
Stephen Capus, then president of RFE/RL, highlighted how important R.E.M.’s music was in their mission to “spread freedom.” He said the band’s music had always symbolized a joyful expression of freedom. It’s a project that pays tribute to the band’s legacy while trying to strengthen an essential news service now facing existential threats.
R.E.M., who announced their disbandment in 2011, know it’s important to use their visibility to advocate for press freedom in these difficult times. The Trump administration is currently trying to eliminate funding for Radio Free Europe. They paint the organization as inefficient and partisan in an all too familiar political backdrop. As we reported last week, a federal judge recently ordered the restoration of $12 million in appropriated funds. This important decision comes ahead of a potential June shutdown of the service.
The example Michael Stipe, the band’s lead vocalist, gave of censorship was instructive. In the wake of these events, he focused on its larger implications and understood.
“Whether it’s music or a free press — censorship anywhere is a threat to the truth everywhere.” – Michael Stipe
R.E.M. likes Radio Free Europe not for insipid reasons, for their deep artistic roots. Aside from the legal argument, they are morally committed to this cause. Stipe went on to inspire listeners to be more proactive in supporting media integrity, asserting,
“Decide for yourself if radio’s going to stay.” – Michael Stipe
Music enthusiasts can purchase a special vinyl pressing of the rerelease at independent record stores and R.E.M.’s mail order store, making it both a collectible and a contribution to an important cause.
R.E.M’s looking forward to bringing its music to a whole new generation of fans. By doing so, they’ll advance press freedom and send a powerful message in this throwback hit in the making.
