R.E.M. Releases Lyric Video to Promote Voting

R.E.M. has released a new lyric video for their 1986 song 'I Believe' as part of their 'We Are Hope Despite the Times' campaign, aimed at encouraging voter participation ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential elections. The video, created by longtime art director Chris Billheimer, draws inspiration from Michael Stipe's handmade designs and politically themed T-shirts he wore during the 1991 MTV VMAs. Stipe emphasized the crucial nature of the upcoming election, urging citizens to vote and to motivate others to do the same, asserting that 'the choices in this election could not be more stark or more important.' The campaign coincides with the recent release of the digital compilation 'We Are Hope Despite the Times' on September 17, which features 18 politically charged tracks to inspire civic engagement. R.E.M. has a history of advocating for voter rights and participation, having partnered with organizations like Rock the Vote in the past. Their latest efforts reflect a continued commitment to promoting democracy and social responsibility.