R.E.M. Reunites For A Surprise Performance Of “Pretty Persuasion”
On February 27, 2025, at Athens’ 40 Watt Club, all four original members of R.E.M.—Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Bill Berry—unexpectedly reunited on stage. They joined actors Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy during a performance, delivering a rendition of their 1984 song “Pretty Persuasion.” This marked a rare public appearance by the full band since their 2011 disbandment.
Peter Buck’s Rickenbacker rang out with that bright, chiming sound that defined R.E.M.’s early music. Mike Mills added his signature harmonies, blending smoothly with Stipe’s voice and giving the chorus extra warmth. Behind the drums, Bill Berry kept a steady, driving beat—just like in the band’s early days. Seeing him back on stage was a special moment, a reminder of the chemistry that made R.E.M. so powerful.
The 40 Watt Club, a venue deeply intertwined with R.E.M.’s early days, provided an intimate setting for this surprise reunion. The audience, initially unaware of the band’s presence, erupted in applause as the members took the stage. The performance was characterized by the band’s signature energy, with Stipe’s vocals resonating powerfully alongside the cohesive instrumentation of Buck, Mills, and Berry.
Attendees described the experience as surreal and emotionally charged, witnessing a piece of music history unfold before their eyes. The collaboration with Shannon and Narducy added a unique dimension to the performance, blending theatrical elements with R.E.M.’s classic sound. This unexpected reunion not only delighted long-time fans but also underscored the band’s enduring influence in the music world.
After their surprise performance, R.E.M. took to Instagram to reflect on the special night. They shared a candid photo from longtime art director Chris Bilheimer, along with a lighthearted quote: “It’s always fun when you get together with your old coworkers.” The band’s response is simple but enthusiastic “INDEED!!” It was a fitting way to mark the unexpected moment—casual, nostalgic, and full of the same unshakable bond that has connected them for decades.