THIS IS WHY YOU DON'T THROW STICKS INTO THE CROWD

About R.E.M.

R.E.M. was an American rock band formed in Athens, Georgia, in 1980 by drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and lead vocalist Michael Stipe, who were students at the University of Georgia. R.E.M. was noted for Buck's arpeggiated "jangle" guitar playing; Stipe's distinctive vocal style, unique stage presence, and cryptic lyrics; Mills's countermelodic bass lines and backing vocals; and Berry's tight, economical drumming. In the early 1990s, other alternative rock acts suc...

About This Footage

The footage on display is a rare gem from R.E.M.'s drummer Bill Berry's perspective, captured during The La's' 2017 tour in London. What makes this clip significant is its unfiltered, candid nature – it's an accident caught on camera, with no intention of being shared publicly. This moment, though seemingly trivial, offers a glimpse into the band's dynamic and the drummer's personality.

At the time, R.E.M. was still active, having formed in 1980 and gained widespread recognition for their unique sound and energetic live performances. Their music often explored themes of social commentary, politics, and personal relationships. Bill Berry's drumming style, characterized by his tight, economical beats, added to the band's distinctive sound.

The La's, on the other hand, were a Liverpool-based rock band known for their hit single "There She Goes" (1988). Although they disbanded in 1992, their music has maintained a loyal following. The footage features Lee Mavers, the band's frontman and guitarist, but it's not clear if he was involved in this particular incident.

The clip itself is brief, lasting only 44 seconds, but its impact lies in its authenticity. It captures a moment of chaos, with the drummer's stick flying into the crowd, hitting an audience member in the face. The drummer's apology and explanation that follow are laced with humor and humility, showcasing his personality.

What makes this clip rare is not only its candid nature but also its context. It was filmed during a tour, specifically at the O2 Forum Kentish Town in London, and features footage from The La's' show on December 2017. This adds to the significance of the moment, as it provides a unique perspective on life on tour.

The viewer will take away from watching this clip an appreciation for the drummer's humility and sense of humor. It's also a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, musicians can maintain their composure and acknowledge their mistakes. The footage serves as a testament to the human side of music, where moments like these can be just as memorable as the performances themselves.

Furthermore, this clip highlights the importance of attention to detail, particularly for audience members. As the drummer notes, had the gentleman in front of the lady been more attentive, she might have avoided getting hit with the drumstick. This incident serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and aware during live performances.

In conclusion, this footage offers a unique glimpse into the world of touring musicians and their interactions with the audience. Its candid nature and humorous tone make it an enjoyable watch, while its significance lies in its rarity and authenticity. As a piece of music history, it's a valuable addition to any collection, providing insight into the lives of musicians on tour.

Curated from public records and music databases.