Michael Stipe Performs at Harris Campaign Event

Michael Stipe made a rare live appearance on October 4, performing alongside Jason Isbell at a Get Out the Vote event for Kamala Harris in Pittsburgh. Stipe sang two R.E.M. classics, 'The One I Love' and 'Driver 8', for the first time since 2008, expressing his excitement about the performance and the support for Harris, whose husband Doug Emhoff introduced the duo. The pair also performed Isbell's songs 'Traveling Alone' and 'Hope the High Road'. Stipe's performance marked his first public show in five years, as he has been largely absent from live music since R.E.M.'s breakup in 2011, though he remains active in the art world. Isbell will begin an eight-night run at the Ryman Auditorium soon and has garnered attention for his support of Harris's campaign alongside other musicians. The upcoming U.S. presidential election is set for November 5.