REM don’t do many interviews so it was a massive coup for BBC Nottingham’s Dean Jackson to get to talk to the band. REM played to a huge crowd at the home of Nottingham Forest on Wednesday 6th July. The rain poured but that didn’t dampen the spirits of all those who came to see one of the world’s biggest bands. Dean spoke to REM’s front man Michael Stipe. During part one of the interview they talk about:- • Having their music played
• The ‘Around the Sun’ album
• Art and creation
• The relationship between artist and listener
• Not letting music become ‘wallpaper’ During part two of the interview they talk about:- • Finding new music
• Disposable and ‘real’ music
• The Live 8 gig and its legacy
• Celebrities and politics
• Being an optimist  | | Wet REM fans at the City Ground. |
During part three of the interview they talk about:- • His blue facial stripe
• REM’s dynamics, how they work together
• How he’ll relax after their tour Dean also spoke to bassist Mike Mills. During part one of the interview they talk about:- • Being part of Nottingham’s biggest ever gig
• Their world tour
• The band’s charities
• The ‘Around the Sun’ album
• Nonsense lyrics During part two of the interview they talk about:- • Where he gets inspiration from
• His favourite bands
• New bands like The Zutons, Idlewild
• Compiling a set-list
• Where the band will go next
• Getting ideas To listen to the interviews use the links on the right of this page. Take a look at our review from REM’s gig at the City Ground too. | 
