REM has released a new music video for “ I Believe » to encourage Americans to vote in the presidential elections.
REM have released a new music video for their 1986 song “ I Believe “, to encourage fans to vote in the US presidential election.
The video was created by longtime REM art director Chris Billheimer. It is inspired by the political t-shirts worn by Michael Stipe at the 1991 MTV VMAs where, following his victory with ” losing my Religion “, the group used their speech to draw attention to causes such as gun control, abortion rights, voting rights and alternative energy sources.
“ The choice in this election couldn't be clearer or more importantMr. Stipe said in a statement. Please vote and encourage everyone you know to do the same: this is how we will win in 2024 and I believe we can do it!!! »
In September, REM released We Are Hope Despite the Timesan 18-track digital compilation aimed at encouraging fans to stay informed and vote. “ I Believe » appears on the compilation alongside other political songs, including “ Welcome to the Occupation “, ” Swan Swan H “, ” Fall on Me ” And ” World Leader Pretend “. “ I Believe » was originally released in 1986 on the album Lifes Rich Pageant.
Although REM did not support a specific candidate in its vote call, Michael Stipe campaigned for Kamala Harris, including performing at a fundraiser in Pittsburgh. Doug Emhoff, the vice president's husband and candidate, opened up about his relationship with Stipe during an interview with Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder and Jeff Ament. After an event in the musician's hometown (Athens, Georgia), Stipe and Emhoff visited the record store where REM formed, and then Emhoff visited Stipe's house.
“ He took me there for a personal visitsays Emhoff, and he said to me: “this is where I wrote Fables (of the Reconstruction), the whole album in three weeks, going around in circles”. “.
During that discussion, Emhoff highlighted the number of musicians who have rallied behind Harris' campaign, mentioning Jon Bon Jovi, Jason Isbell, Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift and, of course, Pearl Jam.
