R.E.M. announce five-track benefit EP, Radio Free Europe 2025

The release celebrates the 75th anniversary of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), and arrives just ahead of World Press Freedom Day (3 May).

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty was established by the United States 75 years ago and currently broadcasts news and information in 27 languages to 23 countries where a free press is either banned by the government or under threat. Throughout the Cold War and continuing today, RFE/RL is often the only lifeline to the outside world for people living under extreme censorship.

Members of R.E.M. say this mission of promoting free expression has always resonated with the band. “Whether it’s music or a free press – censorship anywhere is a threat to the truth everywhere. On World Press Freedom Day, I’m sending a shout-out to the brave journalists at Radio Free Europe,” says Michael Stipe, lead singer and founding member of R.E.M.

“Radio Free Europe’s journalists have been pissing off dictators for 75 years. You know you’re doing your job when you make the right enemies. Happy World Press Freedom Day to the ‘OG’ Radio Free Europe,” says Mike Mills, bassist and founding member of R.E.M.

Tracklist:

Radio Side:

1. Radio Free Europe 2025 (Jacknife Lee Remix)*

2. Radio Free Dub (Mitch Easter 1981 Remix)*

Liberty Side:

1. Radio Free Europe (Original Hib-Tone Single)

2. Sitting Still (Original Hib-Tone B-Side)

3. Wh. Tornado (From Cassette Set) **