About this episode

This episode explores the history and influence of R.E.M., the first alternative band to achieve global commercial success.

Picture a 1970s American teen, dressed as Frank N. Furter from Rocky Horror , interviewed on local TV outside a suburban cinema. That fearless teen grows up to be Michael Stipe, lead singer of R.E.M., the first alternative band to achieve global commercial success, from its origins in tiny Athens, Georgia. On this episode you'll learn: How Athens, Georgia became the unlikely spawning ground for several successful bands. How R.E.M. created a memorable sound by combining punk, pop music, southern rock and R'n'B Why Pearl Jam and Nirvana cited R.E.M. as a major trailblazer, and influence on their sound How an onstage near-tragedy changed the band forever... The college radio strategy the company employed to build its credibility and momentum Why R.E.M. turned down the offer to write a theme song for the popular TV show Friends The first alternative band to experience mass commercial success, R.E.M. occupies an influential position in music history, inspiring many bands with their fiercely independent spirit and sound. Astonishingly, the band first heard on 1980s college radio went on to sell 90 million albums. Guest Bio - Peter Ames Carlin, author & journalist Peter appeared on…

People in this episode

Host: Dave Anthony

Guest: Peter Ames Carlin

Topics covered

• R.E.M.
• music history
• alternative music
• influence on bands
• college radio
• commercial success

Keywords

• R.E.M.
• Michael Stipe
• Athens Georgia
• alternative music
• college radio
• Pearl Jam
• Nirvana
• music history
• commercial success

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: R.E.M., Friends

Books & works: The Name of This Band is R.E.M.

Places: Athens, Georgia

More episodes of GARAGE TO STADIUMS Music History Podcast

• The Story of The Who · April 25, 2026 · 55 min
• The Story of The Cars & Ric Ocasek · April 14, 2026 · 58 min
• What is Garage to Stadiums? - trailer for the show · March 31, 2026 · 2 min
• The Story of The Eagles · March 18, 2026 · 1h 1m
• The Story of Stevie Wonder · March 7, 2026 · 1h 3m
• The Story of The Band · February 27, 2026 · 55 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the GARAGE TO STADIUMS Music History Podcast podcast page.