Begin the Begin: How Three UGA Students and a Record Store Clerk Changed Music

About this episode

This episode explores how three UGA students and a record store clerk came together to form the iconic band R.E.M.

In this episode of History for Cocktail Parties , Thornton and James pull back the curtain on the serendipitous sparks that ignited R.E.M. in the heart of Athens, Georgia. From Michael Stipe’s life-changing encounter with a Patti Smith record to Peter Buck’s days behind a record store counter, the hosts trace how these future legends were funneled toward one another by the social gravity of Kathleen O'Brien. You’ll hear how a dilapidated Episcopal church and a high-stakes ultimatum for drummer Bill Berry set the stage for a band that would eventually redefine the American sound. It’s a story of chance, timing, and Southern grit that will give you plenty of ammunition for your next happy hour.

Topics covered

• R.E.M.
• music history
• Athens, Georgia
• Patti Smith
• Southern culture

Keywords

• serendipity
• music legends
• record store
• band formation

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: History for Cocktail Parties

Places: Athens, Georgia

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