Watch Michael Stipe perform REM classics with Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy
Michael Stipe made a surprise appearance at a Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy show to perform two REM classics, ‘These Days’ and ‘The Great Beyond’.
Shannon and Narducy are currently on a 22-show tour across the US, dubbed ‘Michael Shannon & Jason Narducy and Friends play REM’s Lifes Rich Pageant‘ in celebration of four decades since the quartet’s signature album.
During their show at Brooklyn Steel in New York, the frontman surprised the 1,800 fans in attendance by stepping out for the two huge tunes to thunderous applause, joining for two of the fan-favourites.
This isn’t the first surprise appearance on the tribute tour. Last month, REM’s Peter Buck and Bill Berry joined in for two nights at the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Georgia.
At the same venue in February 2025, Stipe, Buck, Berry, and Mike Mills took the stage together for the second time since 2007. On that occasion, Stipe joined them for ‘Pretty Persuasion’.
Upon the original announcement of the tour, Shannon shared excitedly, “It dumbfounds and delights me that we continue our crusade through this astounding catalog of music from one of Americaʼs most influential and unique bands.”
Shannon added, “Now we find ourselves at a summit, Life’s Rich Pageant, and weʼre all pinching ourselves in disbelief to be so lucky. The most strange and beautiful adventure.”
Speaking to BK Mag, Narducy added, “I’ve gotten better at playing their songs since those days. And occasionally I have access to the people who wrote those songs.”
R.E.M disbanded in 2011 after a 31-year run; Berry left the band in 1997, while the rest continued as a trio for a few more years before calling it quits amicably.
The group confirmed last year that there is no possibility of a reunion. They claimed it would “never be as good” if they did.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.