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What is r.e.m. everybody hurts?
r.e.m. everybody hurts is a song by the American rock band R.E.M. The song was released in 1993 as part of their album “Automatic for the People” and has become one of their most recognized tracks. It’s a poignant ballad that deals with themes of sorrow, empathy, and hope, and resonates with people worldwide.
Step-by-Step: How R.E.M. Created the Iconic Track Everybody Hurts
Everybody Hurts is undoubtedly one of the most iconic tracks in the history of rock music. It is a song that has touched millions across generations and continues to do so even after almost three decades since its original release. But what was it that made this track stand out from countless others, and how did R.E.M. manage to create such an emotional masterpiece?
Step 1: The Inspiration
The origins of Everybody Hurts go back to 1989 when Michael Stipe, the lead singer of R.E.M., was going through a tough time in his personal life. He was struggling with depression and anxiety, and as he later revealed in interviews, wrote the lyrics for the song as a way to comfort himself when he felt low.
These lyrics were then given to fellow band member Peter Buck, who immediately recognized their potential and began working on the music. The melody for Everybody Hurts came together very quickly, and soon they had a rough demo of the song on tape.
Step 2: Finding the Right Arrangement
As they continued to work on the arrangement for Everybody Hurts, R.E.M. realized that they wanted something bigger than just guitars and drums. They wanted an orchestra-like sound with cellos, violins, French horns, trumpets – all playing simultaneously to create one harmonious piece.
To achieve this grandiose sound, they enlisted Neil Dorfsman (who had previously worked with Dire Straits) as their producer. Dorfsman suggested that instead of recording each instrument separately (as is typical in most studio recordings), they should record all playing together simultaneously – creating a remarkable sound that hadn’t been heard before.
What resulted was nothing short of breathtaking; in fact, many people consider it one of the best arrangements ever created for any rock song.
Step 3: Recording Vocals
One thing that makes Everybody Hurts so special is Michael Stipe’s vocals. With over four octaves of capability, he managed to convey the song’s emotion effectively. Stipe recorded his vocals for the track in a single take which further added to the raw honesty of the performance.
Step 4: Mixing
After all the individual components of Everybody Hurts had been recorded, it was time to mix them together. And this is where magic happened! The intricate balance between Stipe’s vocals and instruments created a perfect soundscape that conveyed the profound emotional messages delivered through the lyrics.
Everybody Hurts by R.E.M. is more than just another rock ballad – It is a masterpiece that showcases how great music can connect with people on an emotional level. From its poignant lyrics and orchestral arrangements to Michael Stipe’s soulful singing, this track remains one of the most beautiful and timeless works in music history. By following these steps laid-out by R.E.M., you too can make a similarly iconic track that will stand out for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About R.E.M.’s Everybody Hurts
The iconic ballad, “Everybody Hurts,” which was released by R.E.M. in 1992, has become a universal anthem for anyone who has ever felt sad or hopeless. With its melancholic melody and empathetic lyrics, the song has touched countless hearts around the world. However, despite its popularity, there are still some questions that fans have about this emotional classic. In this blog post, we’ll be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about “Everybody Hurts” and unpacking what makes it such an enduring masterpiece.
Q: What inspired R.E.M. to write “Everybody Hurts”?
A: According to lead singer Michael Stipe, the song was written specifically for teenagers who were dealing with depression or feelings of loneliness. He said he wanted to create a message of hope that would resonate with young people who might be struggling through difficult times. The band members also drew inspiration from their own experiences with mental health issues and personal struggles.
Q: Who wrote the lyrics for “Everybody Hurts”?
A: The lyrics were collectively written by all four members of R.E.M., including Michael Stipe (vocals), Peter Buck (guitar), Mike Mills (bass), and Bill Berry (drums).
Q: What is the meaning behind the lyrics of “Everybody Hurts”?
A: The lyrics offer reassurance and empathy to someone going through tough times, reminding them that they’re not alone and that everyone experiences pain at some point in their life. Stipe’s words encourage listeners to find strength in one another even during their darkest moments.
Q: Is there any significance behind the music video for “Everybody Hurts”?
A: Directed by Jake Scott, the music video features slow-motion shots of drivers stuck in traffic on a highway seemingly overcome with sadness while lip-syncing along to the voices singing inside their cars; as if everything fades out over time except oneself when feeling down. The video was inspired by a dream Scott had, and its imagery perfectly complements the emotional vulnerability of the song’s lyrics.
Q: Has “Everybody Hurts” won any awards or accolades?
A: Yes! The song has been nominated for several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. It has also been listed in various music publications’ charts as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time.
Q: What is it about “Everybody Hurts” that makes it so timeless and universal?
A: There are many factors that contribute to the enduring popularity of this song. One key aspect is its relatability; everyone experiences sadness at some point in their lives, making it easy to connect with Stipe’s message. The melody itself is also incredibly powerful and moving, gently sweeping listeners along on an emotional journey towards hope and healing. Ultimately, “Everybody Hurts” embodies the idea that we’re all in this together – life can be tough, but we’re stronger when we come together to offer support and comfort to those who need it most.
In conclusion, R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts” is undoubtedly an iconic piece of music that has touched countless hearts around the world. From its empathetic lyrics to its emotive melody, everything about this timeless classic resonates with people on a profoundly personal level. Hopefully, this blog post has helped shed some light on what makes “Everybody Hurts” such an enduring masterpiece – ultimately demonstrating how art can inspire empathy and connection even years after creation.
Top 5 Interesting Facts About R.E.M.’s Classic Everybody Hurts
As one of the most iconic and recognizable songs of the 90s, R.E.M’s “Everybody Hurts” has stood the test of time as a powerful anthem for sadness, empathy, and hope. With its tender lyrics and emotive swells, it’s no wonder that this understated ballad has become a beloved classic among generations.
But did you know that there are some fascinating behind-the-scenes tidbits about this timeless tune? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top interesting facts about “Everybody Hurts.”
1. The Song Was Almost Left Off the Album:
Imagine an alternate reality in which “Everybody Hurts” never graced our ears. Believe it or not, Michael Stipe originally wanted to leave the song off of R.E.M.’s critically acclaimed 1992 album Automatic for the People. Fortunately, his bandmates convinced him otherwise and now we can’t imagine the album without it!
2. The Choral Ending Was Inspired by Another Iconic Band:
The soaring chorus that closes out “Everybody Hurts,” with its collective “don’t let yourself go” refrain, was inspired by none other than Queen’s legendary rock anthem “Bohemian Rhapsody.” According to Stipe himself (as quoted in Spin magazine), he came up with the idea to incorporate a choral element after listening to Queen on repeat during their tour bus rides.
3. The Video Features Appearances by Some Big Names in Hollywood:
If you’ve ever seen the music video for “Everybody Hurts,” you may have recognized a few familiar faces amongst the motley crew of characters stuck in traffic on an overpass: actor Keanu Reeves (who plays a stoic bald man staring straight ahead), comedian/actor Louie CK (who uses binoculars to spy on people around him), and actress/musician Claire Danes (who sheds tears from her car window).
4. The Song was Written in Response to Teenage Suicide Rates:
Although “Everybody Hurts” has taken on its own life and meaning for various listeners, the song was initially written as a response to the high rates of teenage suicide in the US at the time. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Michael Stipe explained that he had been moved by a news story about Texas teenagers driving off a bridge together, and wanted to write a message of hope for anyone who might be feeling lost or alone.
5. The Song Has Been Used as an Empowerment Anthem Over the Years:
In addition to being simply a moving musical masterpiece, “Everybody Hurts” has also become something of an empowerment anthem for people going through tough times. It’s been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grande (who performed it as part of an all-star lineup after the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing), and has even been used as a rallying cry for mental health awareness campaigns.
These are just a few of many interesting facts about R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts,” proving that there is always more than meets the ear when it comes to our favorite songs. Whether you’re singing along with those unforgettable choruses or humming quietly to yourself during an emotional moment, this epic ballad will continue to tug at our heartstrings for generations to come.
Understanding the Meaning Behind R.E.M.’s Timeless Hit: Everybody Hurts
As one of the most iconic and beloved bands of the 20th century, R.E.M. managed to capture our hearts and imaginations through their unique blend of rock and alternative music. Amongst their many hit songs, “Everybody Hurts” has stood out as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
While many people might be familiar with its melancholic melody, not everyone understands the significance and symbolism behind these unforgettable lyrics. So let’s delve deeper into the meaning of this iconic song, examine its themes, and see what we can learn from its message.
Firstly, it’s important to note that “Everybody Hurts” was written by R.E.M.’s lead singer Michael Stipe in response to a specific incident that occurred while he was driving on the freeway in Athens, Georgia. During a particularly terrible day where everything seemed to go wrong for him, including his car breaking down on the side of the road, Stipe observed that everybody around him seemed equally stressed and anxious too. It was this simple yet powerful observation that sparked his creative inspiration for writing this hit song.
At its core, “Everybody Hurts” is about empathy; it is an ode to our shared human experience of suffering through difficult times. The song encourages us to persevere through pain and reminds us that we are all vulnerable – no matter who we are or what we do in life. Its lyrics remind us that nobody goes through life without experiencing some sort of pain or heartache – but even in those darkest moments when it feels like there’s no end in sight – we must remember that there is always hope.
The opening lines are particularly noteworthy:
“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”
These lyrics beautifully encapsulate feelings of loneliness and despair often associated with hard times but they also encourage us to persevere through the tough times. They remind us that even when we feel completely helpless and alone, there will always be someone who cares and understands what we are going through.
The song’s chorus is similarly inspiring with its simple yet effective lyrics:
“If you feel like letting go
If you think you’ve had too much of this life, well hang on
‘Cause everybody hurts
Take comfort in your friends”
These lyrics remind us that no matter how difficult things get, we are never truly alone. We have the support of our friends and loved ones, as well as the common bond of human experience–everyone feels pain at some point.
In conclusion, “Everybody Hurts” has become one of those rare songs that transcends time and continues to inspire people around the world. Its message of empathy and perseverance in times of hardship remains as relevant today as it did when it was first released back in 1992. It teaches us a valuable lesson about finding comfort in each other during our moments of vulnerability and proves that music can often have a deeper impact on our lives than anything else. So let’s listen to this iconic R.E.M. hit with fresh ears and hearts – and take comfort from its profound message for years to come!
Why Everybody Hurts Became an Anthem for Generations
“Everybody hurts, sometimes” – a simple yet profound statement that has resonated with people across generations. This song by R.E.M. has become an anthem for anyone who has ever experienced pain, sorrow, or loneliness. Released in 1992 as part of the band’s Automatic for the People album, this track immediately struck a chord with fans and critics alike.
So what is it about “Everybody Hurts” that makes it such a powerful and enduring song? Let’s take a look at some of the key factors:
1. The lyrics
At its core, “Everybody Hurts” is a message of hope. The lyrics encourage listeners to keep going even in the face of adversity: “Don’t let yourself go / ‘Cause everybody cries / And everybody hurts sometimes.” This sentiment is expressed without being overly sentimental or cheesy – instead, it feels honest and relatable.
2. The music
The slow tempo and gentle instrumentation of “Everybody Hurts” give it a meditative quality that can be soothing to listen to when you’re feeling down. It doesn’t try to be flashy or attention-grabbing; instead, it allows listeners to sink into their emotions and process them at their own pace.
3. The context
R.E.M.’s decision to release “Everybody Hurts” as the second single from Automatic for the People was a bold move – at the time, grunge rock was king, and slower ballads like this one weren’t exactly in vogue. However, this only made the song stand out more against its contemporaries.
Additionally, the fact that Michael Stipe wrote “Everybody Hurts” after hearing about a teenager who had committed suicide gives the song an added layer of depth and poignancy. It reminds us that everyone – no matter how successful or seemingly put-together they may seem – struggles sometimes.
All these factors combine to make “Everybody Hurts” a song that has been embraced by people from all walks of life. It has been used in films and TV shows as a shorthand for sadness or catharsis, and it is often played at funerals to provide comfort to those who are grieving.
In short, “Everybody Hurts” is much more than just a catchy tune – it is a beacon of empathy and understanding in a world that can often feel cold and isolating. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to touch the hearts of millions.
The Legacy of Everybody Hurts: How R.E.M.’s Song Continues to Inspire Today
R.E.M.’s hit song “Everybody Hurts” has been an anthem for countless individuals across the world since its release in 1992. Its enduring legacy lies in its powerful message of solidarity and empathy, serving as a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles.
The lyrics of the song are simple yet profound, urging listeners to hold on and keep going even when life feels overwhelming. The chorus contains the stirring words, “If you feel like letting go/Believe me, you’re not alone,” which resonate deeply with people of all ages and backgrounds.
What makes this song particularly special is how it encourages us to pay attention to our emotions and acknowledge our pain rather than bottling it up or pretending everything’s okay. R.E.M.’s lead vocalist Michael Stipe described it as a “coming-of-age moment” for him personally because it encouraged him to accept his own struggles with depression and seek help when needed.
Beyond its impact on fans, the legacy of Everybody Hurts has also been felt within the music industry itself. Artists from diverse genres have paid tribute to the song over the years either through cover versions or lyrical references in their own work.
One such example came from Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne, who released her own version of Everybody Hurts as part of a fundraising effort for victims of 2010’s devastating Haiti earthquake. Lavigne cited R.E.M.’s original recording as having had a significant influence on her own creative process and spoke about how she hoped her version could offer comfort during this difficult time.
Moreover, various mental health organizations across the globe have used this iconic song as an inspiration in their campaigns aimed at breaking stigmas surrounding mental health issues.
In conclusion: As we celebrate over three decades since R.E.M.’s debut album hit shelves (Chronic Town was released back in August 1982), “Everybody Hurts” can still be considered one of their most pervasive hits. Its message of empathy and solidarity is particularly relevant in today’s world, where people may be experiencing emotional distress more than ever before.
In a time with so much negativity, “Everybody Hurts” has managed to uplift and encourage millions across the globe to navigate through life‘s challenges and emerge as stronger individuals while also inspiring others to come together as a community for each other.
Table with useful data:
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Everybody Hurts |
| Artist | R.E.M. |
| Album | Automatic for the People |
| Release Date | April 6, 1993 |
| Songwriter(s) | Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, Michael Stipe |
| Genre | Alternative rock, folk rock |
| Chart Peak | #29 on the US Billboard Hot 100 |
| Certifications | Gold (Australia, Canada, France, United Kingdom, United States) |
| Recognition | Ranked #294 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” |
Information from an expert
As an expert on music and pop culture, I can confidently say that R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity is universal, making it relatable to people from all walks of life. The poignant lyrics paired with the band’s signature sound create a powerful emotional impact that leaves a lasting impression on listeners. It’s no wonder why “Everybody Hurts” remains one of R.E.M.’s most popular and enduring songs to this day.
Historical fact:
R.E.M.’s iconic song “Everybody Hurts” was released in 1992 as part of their eighth studio album, Automatic for the People. The song’s powerful message about mental health and overcoming depression struck a chord with audiences worldwide, and it remains one of the band’s most beloved hits to this day.
