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5d ago

R.E.M. Releases Benefit EP to Support Radio Free Europe on World Press Freedom Day

The five-track EP, featuring remixes and archival recordings, raises funds for the independent news service after a federal order restored $12 million in funding cuts.

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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 launched the 'Radio Free Europe 2025' benefit EP, now available for streaming, with proceeds from a September vinyl release supporting Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
  • The EP includes five versions of the 1981 breakthrough single, including a new Jacknife Lee remix, a Mitch Easter remix, and the original Hib-Tone recording.
  • Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, a U.S.-funded news service broadcasting in 27 languages, faced potential shutdown in June before a federal judge ordered $12 million in funding restored.
  • Timed for World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the project highlights RFE/RL's role in providing independent journalism in regions where press freedom is restricted.
  • Michael Stipe emphasized the importance of combating censorship globally, stating, 'Censorship anywhere is a threat to the truth everywhere.'