Simply put, R.E.M. is the most important American rock act of the '80s and '90s. From its humble beginnings touring the U.S. in a van in support of "Radio Free Europe," its debut single, to the monster arena tours around the world in support of chart-topping albums, the quartet has paved the way for such diverse talents as Nirvana and Hootie & the Blowfish, both of whom readily acknowledge R.E.M.'s influence and contribution to the rock world. With a slow but steady rise from the indie ranks and college radio to mainstream acceptance, R.E.M.'s success with its integrity fully intact has served as a model for thousands of young bands around the globe.

Beginning in July 1981, with "Radio Free Europe" on the small, independent Hib-Tone label, the Athens, Ga.-based R.E.M. established a name for itself almost immediately. At its core was the rhythm section of bassist Mike Mills and drummer Bill Berry, acquaintances since their days in their high school marching band. At its heart, former record store clerk, guitarist Peter Buck, and the shy and mysterious army brat, singer Michael Stipe. With songs like "Gardening At Night" and "Wolves, Lower," R.E.M. defined the sound of American college radio in the early '80s. As the band's career progressed, it managed to alter its sound to stay fresh and keep fans guessing. R.E.M.'s audience grew far beyond the underground with such mainstream hits as "The One I Love," "Stand," "Losing My Religion," and "Everybody Hurts."

The band's impact hasn't just been limited to its own growing popularity. R.E.M. was a key component in a shift in American popular taste. The superstar attractions of the '70s and early '80s, such as REO Speedwagon and Styx, were replaced by a new generation of bands, led by R.E.M., including Nirvana, Pearl Jam, the Gin Blossoms, and Live.