After more than 30 years together and releasing 15 studio albums, alternative/indie rock band REM have decided to disband. Their hits include Losing My Religion, Everybody Hurts, and It's The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine) among others. "To our Fans and Friends: As REM, and as lifelong friends and co-conspirators, we have decided to call it a day as a band. We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished. To anyone who ever felt touched by our music, our deepest thanks for listening."
REM formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, singer Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, and bassist Mike Mills.
In 1995, at a show in Lausanne, Switzerland, Bill collapsed on stage from a brain aneurysm. He recovered and rejoined the band, but retired in October 1997.
Bill Berry left the music business and became a farmer. He has since maintained a low profile. He was followed up by Bill Rieflin.
Bill Berry's musical activities after leaving REM have been sporadic, but did include recording an album in 2000, and performing at REM's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March 2007.
