Michael Stipe says he is completing work on his long awaited debut solo album, more than a decade after the breakup of R.E.M..
The singer, now 66, revealed that he is putting the finishing touches on the project after several delays. Stipe has released only a small number of solo tracks since R.E.M. ended in 2011, but says a full album is now close to completion.
Speaking to The Sunday Times, Stipe said the process has taken longer than he initially expected.
“I’m working on a solo album. But it’s taken longer than I wanted.”
Solo album delayed after R.E.M. breakup
R.E.M., known for global hits including Losing My Religion and Everybody Hurts, split amicably in 2011 after more than three decades together.
Stipe said he initially stepped away from music for several years after the band’s breakup before eventually returning to songwriting.
“Covid didn’t help, but I’m finishing it. When the band split, I just needed a break. I took five years but I got pulled back into music. It’s been a struggle.”
The singer also acknowledged that the legacy of R.E.M. has created a high standard for his first solo project.
“That’s the main thing. I want it to be great, but I’ve got the pressure of having been in R.E.M., and it’s a high bar, because I want this to be as good as that, and that’s near impossible.”
“Exciting but terrifying” creating music on his own
For the first time in his career, Stipe said he has been more deeply involved in the musical side of the project as well as the lyrics.
“So it’s f****** exciting but also terrifying, and I’m doing the music for the first time too, and I think I’m good at it but not great.”
Despite the pressure, Stipe said he still enjoys the act of singing and wants to share new material with audiences.
“But I love my voice. I don’t like my speaking voice but I love my singing voice, and so I want to immerse myself back into offering music to the world.”
Songwriting rooted in optimism
Stipe also reflected on the themes that have shaped his songwriting over the years, saying that even his darker songs carry a sense of hope.
“There is always hope in my writing. I am an optimist, ultimately – even if it’s a realisation in one’s last breath that they blew it.”
He explained that awareness and reflection are central to how he approaches songwriting.
“At least they are aware they blew it. To move through a life not recognising one’s mistakes or regrets is pretty sad.”
Maintaining perspective after decades of fame
After decades as one of alternative rock’s most recognisable frontmen, Stipe said maintaining distance between his work and personal identity has been important.
“Well, an ability to separate oneself from one’s work is essential, to step back and not convince yourself you’re brilliant all the time.”
He believes that mindset helped him stay grounded during his years in the spotlight.
“It allows me to not be a raging a*******, egomaniacal crazy person, because I was a pop star with a lot of light for most of my adult life.”
“A lot of people don’t emerge intact from that. But I feel quite grounded – I feel quite intact.”
While a release date has not yet been confirmed, Stipe’s comments suggest his long awaited solo album could arrive soon.
