Michael Stipe joins The National for R.E.M. tribute in France

Michael Stipe, the former vocalist of R.E.M., performed the band’s iconic song ‘E-Bow The Letter’ alongside members of The National during a concert in Biarritz, France, on October 17. Stipe shared the stage with The National’s Matt Berninger and brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner as part of the AB100 festival, which celebrates the Dessner brothers’ 50th birthdays.

The performance highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two musical groups. The National previously served as opening acts for R.E.M. during their 2008 North American tour. Additionally, Stipe has collaborated with Aaron Dessner through the Big Red Machine project.

Stipe noted that R.E.M. composed ‘E-Bow The Letter’ while staying in San Sebastián in 1995. The song was later released on the 1996 album ‘New Adventures In Hi-Fi’ and originally featured guest vocals from Patti Smith. The AB100 festival continues with performances in both Biarritz and San Sebastián.