Michael Stipe recently took the stage at a Harris-Walz get-out-the-vote rally in Atlanta, Georgia, alongside Democratic vice presidential nominee Gov. Tim Walz (MN) and second gentleman Doug Emhoff. The iconic singer treated the audience to a performance of R.E.M.’s classic track “Driver 8” from their 1985 album, Fables of the Reconstruction.
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During the event, Stipe expressed his gratitude to the attendees for their presence and emphasized the importance of voting. He encouraged the people of Georgia to mobilize their communities, whether through churches, skate clubs, or any other means, to ensure that every voice is heard at the polls.
Prior to his performance, Stipe revealed that he chose to play “Driver 8” as it was Gov. Walz’s favorite song from the band’s catalog. He playfully mentioned a backstage tip about the governor’s musical preferences, adding a personal touch to the performance.
Taking a swipe at Trump’s rally music choices, Stipe encouraged the audience to chant “V-O-T-E” in place of the typical “Y.M.C.A.” by the Village People. He also shared a heartwarming anecdote about encountering Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff in New York, highlighting the genuine love and connection between the couple.
Reflecting on the enduring love he witnessed, Stipe emphasized the beauty of witnessing such devotion both privately and on a larger stage. He celebrated the couple’s relationship and the impact of their love story on a national and global scale.
In a separate event last month, Stipe joined Jason Isbell to perform “Driver 8” and “The One I Love” at a Harris-Walz fundraising event in Pittsburgh, showcasing his continued support for the Democratic cause.
FAQs
Q: What other songs did Michael Stipe perform at recent political events?
A: Alongside “Driver 8,” Stipe also performed “The One I Love” at a Pittsburgh fundraising event in support of Harris-Walz.
Q: How did Michael Stipe encourage voter engagement at the Atlanta rally?
A: Stipe urged the audience to prioritize voting by mobilizing their communities and emphasizing the importance of every vote.
Credit: www.rollingstone.com
