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© Chris McKay. All rights reserved.

For nine years prior to this photo, the 4 original members had never performed as R.E.M. in public. On this night, a local charity had regional acts performing covers of R.E.M. songs. I heard that, in fact, the original band was rehearsing for their upcoming inductions into the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame and The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. I called and asked around to those that might know if there was a chance that they would play. One friend said, "We've heard nothing, but, if I were you, I'd come tonight, I'd bring your camera, and I'd get there early". Shows in Athens normally didn't start 'til 10 pm at the earliest. I got there way before. Imagine the surprise of the very few people that were there when all four original members of the band showed up at about 8:30, played two short songs, and left the stage. Drummer Bill Berry left right after the two songs, but the other three stayed at the club and sat in with the local musicians covering their classic songs. The band wound up liking the shot and using it (along with others) in their fan club Christmas package. It was a very special night.

TAGS: 40 Watt Club, Georgia, Michael Stipe, R.E.M., United States