Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

R.E.M. Surprises Fans with Reunion at Athens’ 40 Watt Club

Vincent  Escudero, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Vincent Escudero, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

In a thrilling and unexpected event, the legendary rock band R.E.M. took the stage together for a surprise reunion at Athens' storied 40 Watt Club, a venue deeply embedded in the band's history. This marked only the second time the group performed together publicly since 2008, highlighting a rare moment of unity among the former band members. This occasion was a part of actor Michael Shannon and Verbow singer/guitarist Jason Narducy's tour, celebrating R.E.M.'s 1985 album Fables of the Reconstruction. On this particular night, they were playing the classic tune “Pretty Persuasion” with band members Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Bill Berry joining them on stage.

The 40 Watt Club, a venue that has long been a landmark of the indie rock scene in Athens, Georgia, played a significant role in R.E.M.’s early years. Known for being a launchpad for many of the city’s local bands, it provided a nostalgic backdrop for the band’s reunion, amplifying the excitement of the surprise appearance. Fans in attendance were treated to a moment that rekindled memories of the band's formative years when they were just beginning their journey to international stardom.

This public reunion was their first since a private performance in 2016 at a party held by Bertis Downs', their manager. Since then, despite calls from fans and lucrative offers, R.E.M. had refrained from staging a full-scale reunion. Michael Stipe, the band's frontman, has been vocal about keeping their legacy intact, emphasizing that a reunion would feel “tacky” and “money-grabbing.” However, the emotional significance of performing on a stage that holds so much history for the band seemed to override their commitment to staying retired, even if just for one night.

During the show, the band's performance was less of a planned event and more of an organic coming together. Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy did not anticipate such a legendary convergence of talent, noting the spontaneity with which each member took the stage. In an unscripted moment, Stipe joined Shannon on stage, thrilling the audience with his powerful vocals. At one point, Mike Mills unexpectedly rushed on stage to join in the harmony, a testament to the camaraderie and chemistry among the members despite the years apart.

The performance at the 40 Watt Club drew attention from fans worldwide, sparking hope for more appearances, although there has been no confirmation of further reunions. For fans, this night was a significant moment, showing that while R.E.M. may have officially disbanded, the spirit of their music and their ability to bring fans together remains strong. For the band members themselves, it was a chance to relive a piece of their shared history, basking in the warmth of their fanbase and the intimacy of a venue that was pivotal to their rise.

Check Out R.E.M Playing ‘Pretty Persuasion' Here:

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Jason Bonham of Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience performs at Hard Rock Live held at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Hollywood, Florida, USA - 12 Nov 2023 Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience in concert, Hard Rock Live held, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Hollywood, Florida, USA - 12 Nov 2023

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening: 2025 “Physical Graffiti” Tour Dates

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening (JBLZE) is touring in 2025 to mark the 50th anniversary of Physical Graffiti, performing the…

The Who kick off their North American farewell with grit, deep cuts, and a full-throated roar

The Who opened their final North American run, The Song Is Over: The North American Farewell Tour, with a career-spanning…

Robert Plant Plows Fresh Ground with “Gospel Plough”

Robert Plant has unveiled “Gospel Plough,” a brooding, rootsy new single with his acoustic ensemble Saving Grace. The track reframes…

KISS - Gene Simmons, Eric Singer, Paul Stanley and Tommy Thayer KISS in concert, 'End of the Road World Tour' Final Performance at Madison Square Garden, New York, USA - 02 Dec 2023

KISS to Receive Kennedy Center Honors in 2025

Washington, D.C. — In a dramatic move that signals a new era for one of America’s premier arts institutions, President…

Hall & Oates quietly resolve their legal dispute — what changed, what didn’t

Daryl Hall and John Oates have ended their business fight in private arbitration, according to an August 11, 2025 court…

Bobby Whitlock with Derek and the Dominoes

Bobby Whitlock of Derek and the Dominoes Passes at 77

Legendary musician Bobby Whitlock, best known as the co-founder and keyboardist of Derek and the Dominos, has passed away at…

Carnie Wilson Pays Tribute to Brian Wilson After Family Funeral

Carnie Wilson’s emotional tribute to her late father, Brian Wilson, has resonated deeply with fans and the music community alike.…

Mets to Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Beatles Show at Shea Stadium

The New York Mets are gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone in the history of rock music with a…

This Is Why Sony is Suing Napster for $9.2 million

Sony Music Entertainment (SME) has entered another legal battle with Napster, this time suing Rhapsody International, Napster’s parent company, along…