R.E.M. Releases New Charity EP: Radio Free Europe 2025
R.E.M. has unveiled a new EP for charity, entitled Radio Free Europe 2025. This five-track release features an updated remix of their 1981 inaugural single “Radio Free Europe,” reimagined by the band’s frequent collaborator, producer Jacknife Lee. Available digitally right now, the EP will also be released in a vinyl format on September 12 through Craft. Sales from the vinyl will benefit Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that operates independently and was the muse behind R.E.M.’s first single. You can listen to the EP now.
The production of Radio Free Europe 2025 was led by Mitch Easter, R.E.M.’s original producer who first recorded the band at his Drive-In Studio back in 1981. This session produced tracks including “Radio Free Europe,” “Sitting Still,” and the instrumental “Wh. Tornado,” all featured on this latest EP.
Marking Milestones and Supporting Press Freedom
The release of Radio Free Europe 2025 coincides with the 75th anniversary of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, just days before World Press Freedom Day on May 3. Presently, RFE/RL broadcasts in 27 languages across 23 countries, providing essential news in areas where free press is restricted or under threat by governing authorities. Despite facing significant financial cuts under President Donald J. Trump’s administration, a recent federal court decision has ordered the reinstatement of $12 million in funding previously allocated by Congress to the organization.
In a press release, R.E.M.’s lead vocalist Michael Stipe emphasized the critical role of RFE/RL, stating, “Whether it’s through music or a free press—censorship anywhere poses a threat to truth everywhere. On World Press Freedom Day, I salute the courageous journalists of Radio Free Europe.” Stipe also spoke about the new music during an appearance on CBS Mornings, with the interview available on Instagram.
R.E.M.’s bassist, Mike Mills, echoed Stipe’s sentiments, remarking, “For 75 years, Radio Free Europe’s journalists have been a thorn in the side of dictators. When you’re angering the right people, you know you’re on the right track. A happy World Press Freedom Day to the original Radio Free Europe.”
Stephen Capus, President and CEO of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, shared his views on the synergy between R.E.M.’s music and the mission of RFE/RL: “R.E.M.’s music has always been a celebration of freedom—through expressive lyrics and inspiring melodies. These are the same goals our journalists strive for—to inform, inspire, and uphold freedoms that are often denied to our audiences. We are committed to holding dictators accountable, despite their efforts to silence us by blocking our websites, jamming our signals, and even imprisoning our colleagues.”
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Naomi lives and breathes music. From underground indie artists to global pop icons, she’s always got her ear to the streets.