R.E.M. Releases Benefit EP Supporting Radio Free Europe Amid Threatened Cuts

R.E.M. has released a special five-track EP centered on their debut single “Radio Free Europe” to mark both the 75th anniversary of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) and World Press Freedom Day. The project features new and unreleased remixes, with proceeds from limited-edition vinyl sales benefiting RFE/RL, an organization providing uncensored news to countries where press freedom is restricted. This fundraising effort comes amid threats to RFE/RL’s funding due to cuts initiated by the Trump administration, though a federal judge recently ordered the restoration of $12 million in congressional funding. R.E.M. members Michael Stipe and Mike Mills emphasized the importance of a free press, highlighting RFE/RL’s role in challenging censorship and supporting truth in authoritarian environments. The band’s initiative has drawn attention to ongoing challenges faced by independent journalism worldwide. The EP and its message underscore the intersection of music, activism, and press freedom.