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4mo ago

R.E.M. Releases Benefit EP for Radio Free Europe Amid Funding Crisis

The five-track EP revisits the band's 1981 debut single, with proceeds supporting the embattled news service following a federal court's order to release $12 million in frozen funds.

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FILE - Michael Stipe, of the band R.E.M., center, speaks as he accepts the Video Vanguard award during the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York on Sept. 7, 1995. Standing by are fellow band members, from left, Mike Mills, Peter buck and Bill Berry. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews, File)
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Overview

  • R.E.M. has released 'Radio Free Europe 2025,' a five-track benefit EP featuring remixes and original recordings of their 1981 debut single.
  • Proceeds from the EP's limited-edition orange vinyl, available September 12, will support Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
  • The release coincides with RFE/RL’s 75th anniversary and World Press Freedom Day, highlighting the importance of independent journalism.
  • A federal judge recently ordered the Trump administration to release $12 million in funding to RFE/RL, though the administration is appealing the decision.
  • R.E.M. members Michael Stipe and Mike Mills emphasized the EP’s connection to press freedom, celebrating RFE/RL’s role in holding authoritarian regimes accountable.