Everybody Hurts - R.E.M. | Andy & Alex FIRST TIME REACTION!

[@andyandalex]

Everybody is saying the video is a bit essential to fully get it, is that the case for you guys? Note: Our thoughts are not at all to discredit the help the song has provided to others, we just don’t think it would have personally connected with us when we’ve been down bad or would really connect with us if we needed a voice like that in the future, may be a generational thing, not naturally tapping into its frequency. But again, it’s amazing this song has helped countless people and I thank REM for that.

[@1DJTheMessenger]

Facts!

[@manhattenman6075]

The live version is better

[@wolfgangwalk337]

No. I didn't see the video until like 25 years after the CD came out. Still a great song for me from the getgo.

[@surlechapeau]

yes. The guitarist Peter Buck said the song was aimed at teenagers.

[@moniphil]

I’m just not sure how this song came off as disingenuous or sterile. I think maybe y’all weren’t in the correct emotional mindset. The song is about suicide and is aimed at teenagers. It’s very straightforward lyrically because of the subject matter and intended audience, which is unusual for R.E.M. But to answer your question, no, I don’t think you need the video to fully get it.

[@schrodingerszombie2401]

This is not a song about being hurt by your lover, it's a song about being hurt by life and needing a reason to stay here.

[@amara7025]

Yep

[@teresa2845]

that may not be what the writer meant when he was writing the lyrics... But all artists know that people will find their own meaning to what they hear or see.

[@jennywren7822]

Yep​@@amara7025

[@Claude-s2e]

Well said.

[@pommie5093]

Exactly-and for those of us who have had that feeling this song can be a lifeline. It's a beautiful song, simply stating-HOLD ON, don't let go, keep living. They are fortunate that this song doesn't resonate. For many people out there, it does-big time.

[@douglasg.9271]

This is one of those rare occasions where the video actually makes the song better. Very moving.

[@gonnahitcharide]

Music is to be listened to, not watched. This song bombed.

[@davaughan100]

This is a tough song as a continued intro to REM. I think of it as an homage to early rock and roll that fits well in their catalog.

[@alanmusicman3385]

I agree normally - for me - the video is a bad distractionfrom the musical merits - but not on this one - its an exception that proves the rule.

[@toddb3226]

​​@@gonnahitcharide As a person who grew up in the 80s, I can tell you that you are most definitely wrong on that one. Music videos made MANY a mediocre song into a hit. This one saved lives..

[@SnowDogisVictorious]

@@gonnahitcharide, I don't think anybody disagrees with this statement in principle, but a caveat is necessary: the artist may well have intended the song to be one component of a multimedia presentation. If that's what the artist intended, insisting upon listening only becomes an exercise in obstinance. Much like the Beatles and Supertramp, REM tired of touring, but didn't call it quits for a while thereafter. During this interregnum, songs like Everybody Hurts were released. The video component of REM's music thus became more important to them (keeping in mind, of course, that in his post-REM career, Stipe embraced film production as a means of expression). The same period also coincided with the plateauing of music videos as a mainstream form of expression (such that it would have been unthinkable to have released a single without an accompanying video - and, again, many artists embraced the visual medium as part and parcel of the story they wanted to tell, like REM). That's why 250 viewers and counting have taken the time to like the original statement, with which I wholeheartedly agree. I first heard this song while watching the video, which framed the band's intent for the song to speak to depression and societal malaise. In the absence of seeing that video, Andy and Alex mistakenly assumed the song was just about being hurt in a romantic relationship (which isn't a crazy presumption for rock songs generally... but it was definitely incorrect in this case, which the video lays plain).

[@mspicer3262]

This is one of the few songs I can honestly say has saved my life. I expect I'm not the only one that could, or would, say that.

[@lindap8101]

It found me on the brink and brought me back.

[@caroline-s]

I'm glad you're both still here. ❤

[@flor9389]

Me too. I remember hearing it on the radio while driving to work. I started crying and couldn’t stop. When I got to work, I called a psychiatrist to get help with my depression and PTSD.

[@AussieTVMusic]

Same here. It came along at the right time for me.

[@JaquelineGoodspeed]

Awww thank God you are all still here.

[@johnhughes3214]

This song has had a huge positive impact on a large number of people suffering from major depressive disorder. It has touched innumerable lives. When a piece of art can do something like that, it is simply transcendent.

[@hadleygrass]

When Kurt Cobain committed suicide, the midday DJ on WFNX Boston made the announcement and played this song telling their listeners that help is available. It was an indelible moment for me with my headphones riding the T.

[@David-iv6je]

Thanks for sharing that. I lived in Seattle at the time. Lots of people really hit hard, especially the teens who had never fit in, the LGBTQ crowd.

[@yogarose255]

I remember this.

[@zoharfishtetn871]

Everytime I hear this song, i think about Kurt Cobain

[@nicksorrentino1764]

This song was actually written to Kurt Cobain from Michael Stipe

[@ToriJonesLeatherwork]

​@@nicksorrentino1764 incorrect, Everybody Hurts’ appeared on the band’s 1992 album and was written by the drummer Bill Berry. Kurt Cobain's life ended in 1994

[@melissayost4888]

When I first heard this it was a gut punch. I was hurting so much. So low. It might have saved my life. Every time I’m feeling low I listen to it.

[@kimmycook2698]

Same...thank you REM

[@David-iv6je]

When your day is long And the night, the night is yours alone When you're sure you've had enough Of this life, well hang on Don't let yourself go 'Cause everybody cries Everybody hurts sometimes Sometimes everything is wrong Now it's time to sing along When your day is night alone (hold on, hold on) If you feel like letting go (hold on) If you think you've had too much Of this life, well hang on 'Cause everybody hurts Take comfort in your friends Everybody hurts Don't throw your hand, oh no Don't throw your hand If you feel like you're alone No, no, no, you are not alone If you're on your own in this life The days and nights are long When you think you've had too much Of this life to hang on Well, everybody hurts sometimes Everybody cries Everybody hurts, sometimes And everybody hurts sometimes So hold on, hold on Hold on, hold on, hold on Hold on, hold on, hold on Everybody hurts

[@pommie5093]

I can empathize with you. It impacts me the same way.

[@someoneiswatchin]

Sorry guys - this was a miss on your evaluation, and a little perspective is needed here. This song was written during a time when mental health issues such as anxiety and depression were not talked about openly like they are today. People with those conditions were considered mentally weak - their feelings and emotions suppressed and kept hidden away, resulting in self-harm, abuse, or ultimately ending one's life. REM was a credible and socially conscious supergroup who wrote this as a straight-forward calming ode to young people that "it's okay - we all have these feelings, and you will be alright." I don't think it resonates the way it did 30 years ago because mental illness was looked at a lot differently than it is today.

[@thenannymoh]

Nope, not a miss...many of us grew up hearing this song... ALOT... and great that it meant something important to people, it is a (musically) mediocre song.

[@WoefulMinion]

@@thenannymoh It was purposely written to be a simple song to be sure the lyrics were the focus and got through to people. Maybe mediocre to you, but it was simple by design.

[@greypossum1]

This comment. What this person said.

[@lisalovemc717]

Well stated!

[@melissayost4888]

Spot on! I’m a cornucopia of issues due to life threatening trauma. This song means so much to me. As for the music it’s perfect. Empathetic, caring, understanding & soothing. To people like me you can tell Michael Stipe means what he’s singing. It’s beautiful. Not a typical R.E.M. bop, but great music doesn’t have to be. Sometimes you guys overthink what makes a song great. Stole that from Rick Beato. 🥹

[@bierce716]

There are songs that cannot really be understood unless you're in an acid trip... This song cannot really be understood unless you heard it pop up on the radio while getting drunk before your suicide. It saved lives.

[@megwilcox2878]

Yes, this is one of those songs that needs the video to be complete. You're right about the "generational" difference, though. Back in the day, when mental health wasn't spoken of much and the stigma was so strong, the idea of someone coming out so publicly to talk about the pain that many of us were in was revolutionary and cathartic. Lots of people cried when they first saw the video, who had probably not cried much for fear of looking weak. Times have changed! People still suffer from mental illness, or just grief, or trauma, but we can talk about it. It wasn't always this way.

[@AaronHunter]

Yes, great comment.

[@timwilson9900]

But now we talk about it too much. Everyone on social media is mentally ill, and they wear it like a badge. Like it gives them status. "Hi, I'm mentally ill." "Hey, me too."

[@agemoth]

I have NEVER seen the video to this day and still I have loved the song for years .

[@burmajones803]

​@tim wilson hmmm. You just told me in another comment that you have had mental health struggles. Now I am confused. Was that true or was that just a rhetorical strategy?

[@timwilson9900]

@burmajones803 It's true. I feel that we've gone from one extreme to another. In the past, no one discussed mental illness because of the stigma and shame. Obviously, that wasn't the way to go about it. Now, on social media, EVERYONE endlessly talks about it. Like it's something to be proud of. So much talking and no one is getting better, like dozens of friends I know. They're still depressed. People all clustered together, all being depressed.

[@tylerhackner9731]

The whole album is an iconic masterpiece

[@brt5273]

....which I think is why the song is probably better for those of us who are fans, because it's part of the whole great album. People who are not as famimiar and just taking this on it's own may not get as much out of it.

[@kinksfan9781]

...or not.

[@b00jen81]

@@brt5273 100% agree (and totally agree with Tyler's comment too). Tbh, I don't really care for this song very much outside of the album (which, as a HUGE REM fan, I'm always kinda bummed that this is one of their biggest songs). However, it somehow fits perfectly within the entirety of the album, and I do enjoy it in that context/atmosphere.

[@johnboydTx]

It is a fantastic album ☺️👏👏✌️

[@Tanstaafl_74]

I remember him changing his T-shirt every time he went on stage for every grammy that it won. He wore a LOT of T-shirts that night.

[@Maxmulham]

For me, this will always be an S Tier song. There is nothing much like it. The video is a must see.

[@lindap8101]

It’s one of the rare videos that enhances a song, not elbows for the spotlight. I love that at the beginning of the video one of the captions is ‘They’re all stuck’ and at the end the symbolism of everybody essentially becoming ‘unstuck’ and walking away from their brinks of despair.

[@Ray1969.]

You guys couldn’t be more wrong about Michael Stipe

[@chanceybooth4537]

Agreed ❤

[@paulinegarrity4003]

I don’t agree with your opinion. This was a song of encouragement. I get chills every time I hear it.

[@loosilu]

He actually wrote it for Kurt Cobain.

[@musicaddict5076]

@@loosilu Actually he wrote Let Me In from Monster for Kurt. Not this one.

[@pattyliedel6485]

Gives me tears because someone actually wrote a song to tell me to hold on. Feels personal, and makes me grateful.

[@cactaceous]

@@loosiluThe song was written to help teenagers get through their youth. It has nothing to do with Kurt Cobain.

[@steveturner3999]

The band’s contribution to letting kids growing up know they’re not alone when they feel lost and alone. Driver 8, The One I Love, Don’t Go Back to Rockville, What’s the Frequency Kenneth? So many good songs from them.

[@stephenschmidt6779]

Driver 8 one of my favorites. Great video of acoustic version in abandoned Church. Unplugged before "Unplugged".

[@Hrizzzz]

Driver 8 so good. I bet these guys would like more stuff from Monster and Life's Rich Pageant.

[@ModernArtery]

A huge up to What's the Frequency, Kenneth?

[@sandyr-w6906]

No matter how many times I hear this song, I cry. Thats how good this song is and how it brings out emotions.

[@ginaabernathy7419]

Yes❤

[@chrispopejoy6652]

Me too

[@junietunes2148]

On the one hand, it's wonderful that neither of you have suffered the pain of depression. On the other hand, because of that you lack some empathy and emotional depth at times. This song was very impactful when it came out, especially for those who needed to hear that they aren't alone in what can sometimes be a harsh world.

[@scottboswell6406]

I was thinking close to the same thing. Not that they didn't have any trauma growing up, but nothing that put them in the space where this song aims.

[@andyandalex]

I don’t think I’ve experienced the full scope of depression myself, but I know Alex most certainly has and I don’t think it’s fair to assume otherwise just because there wasn’t an instant connection to a particular song about depression/suicide.

[@lindap8101]

@@andyandalex You’re right to defend your reaction. You didn’t connect and importantly you didn’t lie.

[@junietunes2148]

@@andyandalex Fair point. I shouldn't assume, but based on the fact that both of you seem to dismiss heartfelt music on the regular, it certainly comes off as jaded. This isn't the first time you have missed the mark on emotional vulnerability. "At 17", "Voices Carry", "How Soon Is Now?", "There is a Light and It Never Goes Out" and those are just off the top of my head. To be clear, it's fine that those songs didn't resonate with you, but it does sometimes come off as dismissive and maybe a little emotionally stunted. You know I still have nothing but love for you both, just wish you were both a little more open to honest vulnerability. It's also interesting to me that the songs I mentioned were written by women and gay men, 2 groups of people that had been largely marginalized for a big chunk of the 20th Century.

[@missmelissa2303]

@@junietunes2148 Interesting point about missing the mark on vulnerable songs written by women and gay men. I was particularly upset by their Voices Carry reaction. They said it sounded something like what Taylor Swift would write which is dismissive and insulting. I’ve never heard a TS song as impactful and meaningful as Voices Carry. And I’ve heard a lot of TS. It just felt like in that moment they seemed to think all “emotional girl with guitar songs” are so one note and not worthy of interest. It’s a bit myopic.

[@cindyknudson2715]

I think you guys were in the place of "actively analyzing" the music. 🎶 When you are in a position to just be randomly listening, it can touch an inner cord. And when a person is vulnerable or in that mind space - it joins you there and sort of... holds your hand. Encourages you to hold on. Reminds you that aren't alone. And that it matters. PS: I'm actually glad to hear that you can't relate to the song. I'm glad you've not had to face the dark place this song is reaching a helping hand into.

[@treetopjones737]

As a musician, I find the song uninteresting, and yes I heard it when it came out ( I was an adult then ). Good that deeply depressed people felt it helped them, but not a composition that says "I want to hear that again."

[@fidoz2370]

John Paul Jones scored the strings for this album.

[@lambokarabeekian6192]

Very surprised at your comments suggesting the song and particularly the vocals were sterile or inauthentic. I heard it differently, as an anti-suicide anthem with a lot of emotional impact.

[@sallybannister6224]

Very surprising ... not sterile, Michael Stipe was trying to depict a person who is numb, giving up... you just don't get it ..

[@andyandalex]

@@sallybannister6224 I think that’s part of the point of why it may not has resonated, it felt like he was trying to depict something and fill us in on the fact that everybody has hard times rather than just actually being there for you, I’m super glad they did it and it helped people I think we’re just saying it may not work as well for our generation

[@danhartzog9274]

I don't think it's fair to pin your lack of connection to it on a whole generation. It's not my favorite REM song by any means, but it means a lot to a lot of people. You're getting strong push back on here not because it didn't connect with you but because you were dismissive of its intent.

[@andyandalex]

@@danhartzog9274 Fair point, I’m definitely not trying to dismiss the intention or what they were trying to create again I just don’t think it connects with us personally and I don’t think it would connect with a lot of people our age. When this came out mental health and depression/suicidal thoughts weren’t openly talked about from what a lot of people here were saying, so this served as an anthem and opened the conversation, and helped a lot of people in the process, I just think with people my age we’re at the point where we are talking about it and trying to figure our way and saying that everybody hurts sometimes, I don’t think it connects super hard because the conversations have been open and we know other people feel this way, again I think he meant well and I’m glad it worked wonders for a bunch of people I just don’t about the staying power for current young people and I think it’s okay, I don’t think it has to be the end all be all for everybody when they’re in that vulnerable space

[@Dr_Bombay]

pretty sure that Michael Stipe has struggled with depression his whole life, so it's not like this song as just some cool idea he had -- he was speaking from experience, and his vocals are so raw, they show it. (in my opinion).

[@HappyOne3]

I never felt it intended to make anyone feel better. It just states a fact, and made me feel I wasn’t alone. The video has the impact.

[@limeymcfrog1]

I’ve never disagreed more with a take ever. Michael Stipe puts everything into his vocals. This one will probably also be a grower for you. The familiar 12 beat is meant to be comforting - the song is about comfort in times of sadness.

[@christophercox9150]

I never thought of that comfort element - great observation. I'm a massive R.E.M. fan but it does depend a lot on whether you like Michael Stipe's vocals. Lots of people instantly dismiss these songs as 'depressing'.

[@cynthiawhite9830]

Yeah, and it seems apparent that it is meant to be comforting, but they missed it...

[@David-iv6je]

@@christophercox9150 "Catharsis" is the word I would use. A "depressing" song can actually make you feel better. This is actually in 6/8 time. You can tell because there are two main beats defined by the guitar arpeggio, each divided into three: ONEtwothreeFOURfivesix. No waltzy feel. 12/8 will have double the number of strong beats. Think "The way you make me feel" by Michael Jackson. Or "Fool in the Rain" by Led Zeppelin. (The legendary Purdie shuffle.)

[@andythrush3341]

It has a "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" vibe. Very tastefully done.

[@362chop]

Thank You

[@cynthiawhite9830]

Omg, I have watched so many reactors listen to this song and every single one of them has been so moved by it! I don't get these two. And Michael's voice is so good....I love this song.

[@missmelissa2303]

Some people have the emotional depth of a ham sandwich.

[@cynthiawhite9830]

@@missmelissa2303 You're right! When they did Janice Ian's "At Seventeen", they didn't get it...Andy thought maybe his sister would...

[@missmelissa2303]

@@cynthiawhite9830 I remember that. 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

[@andyandalex]

@@missmelissa2303 You think we have the emotional depth of a ham sandwich? Really?

[@davidhowell7279]

​@Andy & Alex No worries. As someone who suffers from bipolar disorder, I can totally understand emotional reactions to music. First time I heard this song, even though I really like their music, I was super manic and was a ham sandwich. Then, at some point I heard it when I was extremely low and on the edge. Man, I was like a perfectly made, amazing ruben sandwich (which is a moving experience for me). Put it this way. If you have only experienced the pain of having a splinter, you have no idea what the pain of having a broken bone is like. You can sympathize but not empathize. You can't totally relate. I sincerely hope that you never feel the depth of emotion that would make this a grower for you. I've seen you guys be a ruben sandwich over songs before.

[@jbellinger99]

The video really sells this song. There is no way to understand the impact of this song without the video. It is emotional, phenomenal, and uplifting - it brings the song with it. You missed the boat emotionally on this song because you have not seen the video. You owe us another chance on this one.

[@kimmycook2698]

Exactly...redo

If a song cannot stand on its own, it's not a good song. Also: the video was filmed in February '93, while the album was released in October '92. So what was that song for these 6 months (single was released in April '93, and I guess it was released at the same time).

[@clarencesmelcer4327]

It’s like Hurt by Johnny Cash. The video completes it. This REM is far more impactful with the video.

[@flubblert]

I think they missed the boat trying to compare this song with other pop tunes. It just isn't that. Nor was it meant to be.

[@jbellinger99]

@ It is one of those songs where the video gives you a whole new insight into what Stipe was feeling. It is a song that sings to the broken in a way that does not touch those who are in a better place. Those people do not need the video the have this song open a wound in them. What the video does, and does well, is bring that point home to people who never really took the time to empathize and open their heart to it. It is a video that directly reaches into people's minds, in the way that few videos do. And, in the end in brings home the real point of the song which is triumph over darkness. I personally always thought the song a brave and heartfelt one, unusually clear in thought and lyric for Stipe. It is a song that excuses no privilege, and sets forth hope as a place you can get to. That was always enough for me. But the video broke my heart anew.

[@kimmycook2698]

Video makes the song hit harder for sure...I always cry watching it and remembering a time i almost gave up. It's a beautiful song...

[@jeffjones6221]

I think if you knew the impact this particular song has had on suicidal people, you might change your thoughts.

[@StatsJedi]

Gives "S"-tier a whole new meaning.

[@jeffjones6221]

@Tim Dienes absolutely brother

[@ronbock8291]

One of the most important rock songs ever created. It's literally saved countless lives. If you need this song, you really need it. String arrangement by John Paul Jones.

[@cathyrichardson8747]

True..

[@buddinganarchist]

Now, Nightswimming, that's S tier beauty.

[@bryancue2238]

The reaction to this song did not go at all as I expected. As a teen in the 90's this song was pivotal in so many people's lives. When everything is going wrong, know that everybody hurts sometimes..... just hold on....

[@horsebydayartbynight]

Sometimes a song just hits the exact right chord at the exact right time in a generation, for whatever reason. This is one of those songs. It just was the right time for this song to hit our generation hard.

[@colleenwood8220]

Dudes. REM wasn’t just some new wave group, a rock group or hit generator. They had their own sound that’s tough to pigeonhole. Their uniqueness, their willingness to be odd, that’s what made them iconic. Unfortunately, in a really weird way, you had to BE there when they put music out. This song has saved lives. And, Stipe never phoned in a song. You guys are so young. 💝🥴😂🤦‍♀️

[@brianmiller1077]

The thing that they didn't want a new album to sound like was the previous album.

[@eboethrasher]

They were all of those things at different times, that's the best part of it. I think the boys need to hear some of the more rocking earlier stuff. Radio Free Europe, Driver 8, or Begin the Begin. Orange Crush might be interesting, too.

[@eboethrasher]

@@brianmiller1077 Eh, I think that they built upon their sound pretty well in the 80s. There were not any really huge departures.

[@brianmiller1077]

@@eboethrasher I'm just going by what they said themselves, this was early-mid 90's

[@loosilu]

So far you have only done 90s songs from this band. This was their pop phase. Their most significant and influential music is from the 80s, and that's what we've been tryign to get you to hit. Radio Free Europe, Can't Get There From Here, So. Central Rain.

[@burmajones803]

Truth! 80s REM is what they need to hear.

[@lynne5322]

Driver 8 🚂

[@loosilu]

@@burmajones803 I wory that they will give up on REM because they're only picking the commercial hits. It's like judging Elton John on his 80s hits.

Ah, always you purists… "Genesis was crap ever since Peter Gabriel left" kinda fing.

[@loosilu]

@ I'm not generally a purist, just in this case. :)

[@salhaney]

You guys usually hit the nail on the head. This analysis was a major swing and miss. Stipe nailed the emotion IMO. At the the time suicide was sort of a taboo subject. This song was, and still is, powerful. For many reasons this is S-tier for me, as is this entire album.

[@eboethrasher]

The weird thing is, there is another song on this album about how you SHOULD be able to take your own life, Try Not To Breathe.

[@Every_Day_islike_Sunday]

Not surprised they missed it. They don't deep dive into songs anymore.

[@allisonreed7682]

@Andy & Alex, I’ve been an R.E.M. fan for the entire 40 years since the release of their amazing debut album, “Murmur.” I think other longtime R.E.M. fans would agree with me that you’ve been missing out on the true riches of their catalog. In order to fully get this iconic group and their diverse offerings, go back to their early canon - their first four albums. Start with “Radio Free Europe” from “Murmur.” Then slide into “So. Central Rain” and “Pretty Persuasion” from “Reckoning.” From there dive into their album ”Fables of the Reconstruction” and the songs “Can’t Get There From Here” and “Driver 8.” Top it all off with “Fall on Me” from “Life’s Rich Pageant.” Any R.E.M. fan would be ecstatic with these songs. Y’all likely would be, too. Up to now, you’ve only heard R.E.M. songs that were made to be radio hits - songs that are not necessarily representative of the best of their catalog.

[@loosilu]

Let's keep saying it!!!! They're stuck in the 90s, which is fine, but it's only the surface.

[@allisonreed7682]

@@loosilu I don’t hate the ‘90s stuff at all. But they are absolutely missing out on the real goods!!!

[@stephencleary7826]

This woman is talking the dog's bollocks, you keep listening to the most populist but lesser REM songs. They are so much better than the songs you are judging them by.

[@hughn3724]

💯

[@jonathanlocke6404]

I'm afraid if they did the early songs, they'd say the vocals were too low in the mix and the drums weren't heavy enough...

[@iangrant3615]

This song was a huge hit and a huge cultural moment. It may sound now like you've heard it all before, but at the time this was very much not generic, this was was setting the template for such songs.

[@JamesRea2]

Nightswimming is another beautiful song.

[@Ldastro]

I think you may get eviscerated on this A+A, be ready. Still brings a tear to my eye even today listening to your review. One day you will be down and the song will be on then maybe it will hit you-hard. Please don't give up on REM as they are one of the greatest bands ever. So many, many more songs to listen to that cover a wide range of emotions, Michael Stipe, the leader singer, is genuine.

[@jimd7260]

I agree wholeheartedly with Alex. A very weak song.

[@Retroearthling]

One of the BEST BANDS OF ALL TIME.

[@eboethrasher]

@@jimd7260 It just hits different when you have been there, but there are songs that are better suited for them to listen to.

[@DM-hk4cw]

Went to art school with these guys. Great live band when seeing them in Athens. Great guys.

[@scottboswell6406]

That must have been an amazing time! Did you see The B-52s or the other Athens bands?

[@johndef5075]

Got to see them 3 times in the 80s. Great fun!

[@miTnosnhoJ]

This is a super ambitious song. It aimed to prevent suicide. In many cases it succeeded.

[@lloovvaallee]

Insufficient kudos here for R.E.M.

[@lisalovemc717]

This song was extremely powerful back in the 90s especially when you were depressed and or hurting. The first time I heard it I was going through a bad breakup and I connected to it so much. It made you feel connected to people. Maybe it is a GenX only song as we were young when it came out and could really relate to it.

[@cherinoelke]

In combination with National Association for Suicide Prevention, this song has saved a lot of lives. It was brilliant to include their phone number at the end of the accompanying video. 💜

[@scottboswell6406]

A&A, I love you guys, will always fight for your right to your own opinions, but THIS might be your most controversial reaction yet!! Here's a thought, some people will accuse you of not being empathetic, too technique focused, etc. to get it. I think it's that, you Are so in touch with your emotions that the aim of the song misses the mark for you. If you grew up feeling alone, isolated, rejected, just the simplicity of this song is what makes it great, and having someone tell you "everybody hurts" is like a tank driving through emotional walls! I had my issues as a teen, and in high school a guidance counselor called me into his office to tell me that I'm a good person, and that was all it took to open my floodgates!! That's the same power of this song. Now, for me, it never hit as hard as for other people, but 10 years earlier, I'm LOVING this song!

[@Trendyflute]

Their desire to frame it as a "B"-ish song with production flaws, when it's such a stone cold classic that's impacted generations already...it strikes me as a defensive mechanism on the boys' part. Not the first time they would come across as emotionally ill-equipped to handle the art in music, sadly.

[@Dr_Bombay]

this song STILL brings me to tears. it's such a perfect emotional snapshot of those times when you just feel overwhelmed by everything. stone cold classic.

[@aquemeni1979]

There’s something so vulnerable and human about Micheal Stipes voice, I think it connects with people on a deeper level

[@ixeyeb]

Michael Stipe was close to Kurt Cobain and was devastated when he took his life. Not sure if he wrote this song due to Kurt taking his life, or perhaps had other experiences that influenced him to write about this? But hearing you two saying "he wasn't really caring about this topic." based on how this song "felt" to you, is ironic. So many people have wrote to Michael and said this song helped them, or even saved them from trying to end their life. The fact a song can do this says everything to me. If it can touch one person in the feels, then it did its job!

[@missmelissa2303]

This song was released about a year and a half before Cobain took his life. That being said, of all the criticism that can be levied at this song, the idea that Michael Stipe was somehow “inauthentic” is just beyond the pale.

[@burmajones803]

I understand that Stipe had many many phone calls with Cobain in an attempt to try to reach out and help guide him back from the depths of despair he was in. Describing him as inauthentic...that's just wrong.

[@AaronHunter]

"Let Me In" from Monster is the song Stipe wrote after Cobain's death (and River Phoenix's, I think). Incredible song.

[@kamehousekz87]

Michael Stipe is actually Frances Bean Cobain's godfather, and was one of the last people to have spoken to Kurt before his death. Kurt LOVED R.E.M. and the band had a huge impact on his own songwriting.

[@eboethrasher]

@@kamehousekz87 Peter was their next-door neighbor. That's why Kurt picked the house he did, cause Peter had moved out there, and Kurt jumped at the chance to live next door to Peter.

[@soccerdad2539]

Don't need a video to appreciate the depth and power of this masterpiece. Music is to elicit emotion and if this doesnt do it for you well😢❤

[@michaeloreilly2533]

This is on the shortlist of the 90s greatest albums. It covers REMs full range of styles and doesn’t have a bad song on it.

[@flor9389]

John Paul Jones did the string arrangement on this - if I remember correctly. Song saved my sanity and possibly my life.

[@g.e.5723]

'93 or '94, I'm driving to the Vet's Office, My cat probably won't return home with me, and this song comes on the radio. Geez.

[@DaverJ]

Wow - did not see that response coming. Not sure what happened here, this in an amazingly heartfelt song that stands the test of time.

[@manhattenman6075]

Automatic For The People Is a great album and one of the best 90s albums should really check it out, or do Murmur Which recently had its 40th anniversary. Both albums are amazing

[@loosilu]

They NEED to hit early REM.

[@mapmanparlett2310]

I always appreciate that you guys are always about the music..BUT - you should see the video for this song - classic..

[@paulflynn2476]

Everyone has their opinions but your rating for this one is a shocker lads 😂

[@wolfgangwalk337]

What a song it was. What a feeling when I heard it for the first time. String arrangements by John Paul Jones. THE John Paul Jones.

[@loosilu]

Written by Michael Stipe for Kurt Cobain (who didn't have much longer to live).

[@loosilu]

Well, I googled and apparently I was wrong.

[@joelhahn2501]

*The* John Paul Jones who said "I have not yet began to fight" and was the Father of the U.S. Navy? What an astounding musical achievement! 😂

[@barrymiller6289]

@@loosilu He did write Let Me In from Monster for Cobain (I think)

[@loosilu]

This album is a masterpiece. One of my top ten of all time. This specific song is my least favorite on the album.

[@ixeyeb]

Agree 100%

[@waygonner]

Same here.

[@adamp2029]

Same. I like it but i skip it now

[@gablen23]

Same here, I never understood why this was such a big hit.

[@RockyMtnRebecca]

Agree.

[@BrianDominy]

The lyrics are what makes the song. Everything else takes a back seat, so they don't get in the way of the message.

[@SWLinPHX]

This is probably the second most comforting ballad of all time (after "Bridge Over Troubled Water" of course).

[@Joshuadgog]

This video elevates the song to a whole new level. You also have to be in the mood sometimes for the song to make it more impactful. I love this song and it has a great message.

[@josephcrangle4669]

In an interview with Bono of U2, he said that at certain periods of time, he felt that they (U2) were the best band in the world. At other times, he felt like REM was the best band in the world. When you hear tracks like this, I tend to agree.

[@toriboy25]

He sounds like a humble fella

[@chrispopejoy6652]

This review is a clear example of we can’t understand or judge people’s before us because we can’t know what the world was like at the time. Mental health issues were not spoken about anywhere near how it is today. This hit home and saved so many people. I still tear up when I hear it.

[@paulawilkison3934]

This song almost always brings me to tears. I hate it. I love it.

[@maryreilly5092]

As a new widow, this brings me comfort. Thanks for choosing it.

[@56music64]

Yes great video. Can't make a judgement either way as I first heard this song whilst watching it's video. If it has helped just one person, then the song has done it's job

[@loisr3970]

It is such a special song. When your in that deep sadness trying to find a way out. Turn to music its hold on! Hold on. When you feel like letting go !

[@skins28dg]

I couldn't disagree more . There have been multiple occasions I had given up on life and was ready to go. Then I listened to this song with tears streaming down my face and felt connected with the message. Then I decided I needed to keep hanging on. Thankfully I am far from that place now. I am so glad for you that you have not been in that place. Otherwise you might feel different about this song.

[@ToriJonesLeatherwork]

I hear you. This song is a reminder that we are not alone and help is available to us all.

[@allenlunde7908]

I felt the this way when you did “At 17”. It’s a song that didn’t resonate with you because of where you are in your life but I guarantee you, this song saved some lives.

[@lambokarabeekian6192]

I had the exact same thought as you express about their reaction to “At 17.” Shocked and disappointed that it didn’t register with them as S tier.

[@cynthiawhite9830]

@@lambokarabeekian6192 Me too. I wrote about it on another comment here that they didn't get "At Seventeen" either...

[@allenlunde7908]

@@lambokarabeekian6192 I’d say it was because of the times, but I feel like “At Seventeen” is more relevant today than when it came out.

[@Trendyflute]

Sadly the boys don't seem very keyed into a lot of human experiences outside of a pretty conventional experience. They don't understand women, they don't understand gay men, they don't understand people of color, they don't understand pacifists...I know they can be so much better than this but reactions like this make me despair the boys are really rather narrow, close-minded people 😞

[@brianlanier6593]

The video defined the song and the song defined the video. The song/video defined the impact for the timeperiod it was released.

[@justinatest9456]

I didn't realize it was possible to listen to this song without tears steaming down your face... Is it possibly your headphones were not plugged in?

[@flubblert]

... or too tight!

[@marksaldana6209]

It's totally a song that represents the angst and melancholy that comes from being from Generation X. I truly believe it is a generational mood. Totally resonated at the time of its release for me and still resonates as a time capsule of that era for me.

[@ShannonR1969]

Complete;y agree! This song is so emblematic of what Gen X is/was all about.

[@jamess4116]

This song is, IMO from their greatest album and should be listened to as a whole from beginning to end. The album is a masterpiece.

[@nickyfield137]

A rare occasion indeed when Alex completely fails to understand a song

[@EasyZee69]

This song makes me teary eyed every time I hear it. This is the first time I can say Andy and Alex are waaayyyyy off the mark.

[@pinewaves]

Much of the song was written by drummer Bill Berry, although as R.E.M. share songwriting credits among its members, it is unknown how much he actually wrote. Peter Buck wrote that "the reason the lyrics are so atypically straightforward is because it was aimed at teenagers"…"If you're consciously writing for someone who hasn't been to college, or is pretty young, it might be nice to be very direct. In that regard, it's tended to work for people of a lot of ages." In 2022, Stipe said that "Everybody Hurts" was inspired by Nazareth's cover of "Love Hurts".

[@LenProbert]

Having never been suicidial would make it difficult to appreciate this song, much as it would Peter Gabriel's and Kate Bush's "Don't Give Up". Both songs helped to keep me alive.

[@maritamcnichol8849]

One of the few times that I think you need to see the video with the song. Explains it much more. One of the best songs ever.

[@logantawhiti55]

This is one of those songs where the video and the song go hand in hand it doesn't do the song justice without the video.

[@mynameispaul0530]

The "Murmur" album is fantastic. "Radio Free Europe" is the true, early REM sound.

[@loosilu]

That's definitely the song to start with.

[@AaronHunter]

They at least need to check out anything from the IRS years to get a sense of how thrilling they were out of the gate, before they got big.

[@clintatk]

Love you guys. Wait ten years and listen to it again. ✌️🤙

[@scottdemayo9567]

My favorite REM album. Try Nightswimming next 🎶

[@michaelz9892]

This whole album is a must. I always thought of this song as REM's "Rock n Roll Suicide".

[@kamehousekz87]

I've absolutely always felt the same thing. They're cut from the same cloth 20 years apart.

[@matthewlee6168]

Sometimes the fellas overanalyze a song to death rather than just enjoying it for what it is.

[@Manageode]

I love "Shiny Happy People" by R.E.M. and I dont care what ANYONE in the comments says. (or what anyone in the band ever has said about why they wrote it). And I LOVE the guest vocalist. I like the happy. I like the sad. It's all embraceable for me. I was thinking you're not feeling this song; maybe you needed to hear a happy song today.

[@burmajones803]

I am with you on Shiny Happy People Island. Just listened to it today and enjoyed the song yet again. I keep waiting to be cool and jaded enough to hate it, but that day thankfully hasn't come yet! 🙂✌️🤘

[@danielwalsh6693]

For the first time...I have to totally, disagree with you. This song , along with ' Beautiful' by Christina Aguilera, hit deep at my heart. Having lost friends, along a 64 year life span, that took their own lives because they couldn't cope, with the issues they had. "Hold on" & "You are Beautiful "are just 2 simple phrases, I wish I had said to them, when they needed someone to listern & comfort them.

[@AaronHunter]

Like others have said, this is a fantastic song if you let yourself get it - and by the time it came out, Stipe had put in the work/years and established himself as such a "voice of his generation", that it's inconceivable (to me, anyway) that anybody could find this anything other than completely heartfelt and authentic. Context, I guess. But also, it's not really indicative of REM's sound - you guys have now done 2 of their big hits (both of which, yeah, great) that don't really capture what made REM such an amazing band to get into and follow. I'd recommend checking out their first 5 albums (the IRS years), probably for you guys, something off Life's Rich Pageant or Document ... I think after the last two you'll be surprised.

[@fidoz2370]

REM is my all time favorite band but not this song. You've done stuff from their major label days and from their commercial break through now go back to the first few albums Murmur, Reckoning, Fables and try something from those Radio Free Europe, So. Central Rain, Pretty Persuasion, (Don't Go) Back to Rockville, Sitting Still, Perfect Circle, Pilgrimage, Can't Get There From Here, Driver 8

[@normanleroy1874]

Could not agree more, they definitely need to listen to early REM before writing them off.

[@loosilu]

@@normanleroy1874 It is criminal that they have not heard it yet.

[@ThePittsburghToddy]

I’m going to have to disagree with you boys. Personally, I feel like Michael Stipe’s vocals drips with emotion and it doesn’t sound at all generic to me. Please watch the video and perhaps your stance may change somewhat.🖖🏼

[@lofiloop9124]

There are few songs that can really reconnect you with the universe after you broke down. This is one of them.

[@beverlyoyarzun3326]

Interesting review. it kinda sounds like “BeeGees doing Nazareth”.Regarding the time signature, it was written by the drummer- who doesn’t play drums on the track: it’s a machine. The “sterile” vocal is deliberately understated and quiet. As you’re aware by now, it’s about helping teens to *not* commit suicide. It seems middle and high school were not the “portal to Hell” for you guys that it is for some teens. You will remember the lyrics when your kids hit puberty.

[@kimbercole2657]

This song is better when watched with the video or live performance.

[@AManIsNoOne67]

This is about mental health. Some people really needed this. Gives you an idea what the 90's were like, haha, depressing.

[@moniphil]

Go back to REM’s first 2 albums. I dated a girl in the early 90s who disliked R.E.M. I tricked her by putting their first album on my turntable without telling her who it was. She loved it. Early R.E.M. is different than later R.E.M. Both are worthy, but different. I love, love, love their debut EP, 1st LP, 2nd LP, and 4th LP more than you love your mothers. 😂

[@scorpiorysing]

Early REM seemed more raw to me, later albums a little more polished and produced, which I guess is natural as fame affords it. But I like both early and later REM all the same. A good playlist shuffle, I get a good mix of old and new.

[@loosilu]

@@scorpiorysing Their early records shook up rock music. They were an antidote to 80s metal.

[@JulioHernandez-chico]

I have been through so much I've left my emotions behind . But this song I come to it. When I want to let out things deep inside I shake. Get this knot on my throat and get teary eye.

[@benanderson6390]

There isn't a bad song on Automatic for the People. Fantastic album.

[@benabel7326]

Maybe the only album for me where every single song is brilliant, plus the album with the best closing two songs.

[@donna3465]

In 2008 I was in the throes of drug addiction. I listened to this song multiple times everyday, while planning my suicide. Now, when I hear this song, I become almost nauseous when I think about the miserable state of being that consumed my life back then but as painful as it is, I don’t ever want to forget the hell that drugs took me to. This year, on May 23rd, I celebrated 11 years of being clean and sober. It’s songs like these that help to keep me sober.

[@moeruss2726]

Congrats. I’m going through withdrawals right now (100% Pain Management doctor prescribed) that are making me feel like dying but I’m never going back.

[@13terapyn]

If you mean "contrived", yeah, felt the same way first time. Felt that about their entire catalog. Their sound, his voice, all it if was intolerable. Something changed with their release of "Automatic For The People". Absolute banger of an album. Seldom is an album great from beginning to end. My feelings about this song changed when listened to in context of the album. It made sense. For me, AFTP became one of the best albums to come out of the '90's. Highly recommend reacting to the entire album. Be interested to see if either of your views will change as mine did.

[@Dr_Rich740]

This song has saved lives. I agree with the earlier comment that attitudes to mental illness have changed a lot in 30 years and this came as a raft to young people struggling silently at a time when mental illness was not talked about the way it is today.

[@jeffmartin1026]

This song deals with depression/suicide but also deals with being gay. I will suggest you watch the video; it truly fleshes out the song. I can accept your critique of the song, but I also feel there will come a time in your life when you will (unfortunately) understand it at a much deeper level.

[@ronvaw]

I love you guys for honest reviews, even when you are wrong. Which you are this time.

[@stevewright1539]

Like the Joshua Tree, every song on this album works to create a better whole.

[@katm6]

I don't think I've ever seen the video, and this is my favorite REM song. Can't imagine it'd add to my love of the song.