Michael Shannon's Musical Obsession Brings R.E.M. Members Back Together
The acclaimed actor has found unexpected healing through R.E.M.'s music, leading to touring tribute shows and a remarkable reunion with original band members on stage in Athens.
Recent superhero buzz around Michael Shannon's General Zod role has fans excited, but the actor's true passion lies elsewhere. Music, specifically R.E.M.'s catalog, has become his personal sanctuary.
Shannon's villainous turn in 2013's Man of Steel catapulted him to mainstream recognition after two decades in the business. His unhinged performance as the Kryptonian general earned critical praise despite mixed reviews for the film itself. The movie became the second-highest grossing Superman film ever, opening doors that led to Oscar nominations for Nocturnal Animals and a role in Best Picture winner The Shape of Water.
Finding Solace Through Song
Beyond Hollywood success, Shannon discovered something more meaningful in R.E.M.'s music. The actor, who fronts indie band Corporal, began performing complete R.E.M. album covers during what he calls the "dark ages" of his life.
"When we were talking about, you know, the dark ages of my life, I took a lot of solace in the music of R.E.M. And it feels like this band made these songs just for you, when you listen to them, to help you, like, navigate the pain and absurdity of existence," Shannon told NPR.
He doesn't attempt Michael Stipe impressions. Instead, Shannon brings his own interpretation to deep cuts from Murmur and Fables of the Reconstruction, plus Neil Young albums like 1974's Zuma.
Full Circle Moment
Shannon calls his tribute performances "glorified karaoke," but they've created something special. Touring with band member Jason Narducy, who also plays with Bob Mould, they brought their R.E.M. covers to UK audiences last year.
February brought an extraordinary moment in Athens, R.E.M.'s hometown. Michael Stipe joined Shannon on stage for "Pretty Persuasion." Then drummer Bill Berry, watching from the audience, climbed up too. Since R.E.M. officially disbanded fifteen years ago, this impromptu reunion created quite a stir.
"And there's so many people that feel that way. And yet it – you – that's the thing about really incredible music, I feel, is that it's very public and very private at the same time," Shannon reflected on R.E.M.'s universal yet personal appeal.
What's Next
Shannon's upcoming projects include horror sci-fi film Buddy alongside The Penguin's Cristin Milioti. He'll also reunite with frequent collaborator director Jeff Nichols and Margaret Qualley for horror film King Snake.
His connection to Nichols runs deep. Shannon appeared in a 2018 Lucero music video partly because the Memphis band's frontman is Nichols' brother, but it also showcased Shannon's genuine musical passion beyond his acting career.