R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe has shared an update on his long-awaited solo album. In a recent interview, he admitted that the project has taken longer than he expected. “Covid didn’t help, but I’m finishing it,” he said.
Since R.E.M. disbanded in 2011, Stipe took a five-year break from music. He explained that he needed time away but eventually felt drawn back to creating. “It’s been a struggle,” he noted. “I want it to be great, but I feel the pressure of my past with R.E.M. It’s a high bar to meet.”
Stipe described the process as both exciting and terrifying. He’s working on the music himself and feels confident in his singing voice, even if he’s not as fond of his speaking voice. “I really want to share my music with the world,” he said.
Currently, Stipe still has lyrics to finish for eight songs. He hopes to release the album by the end of the year. As for the title, he hasn’t decided yet but joked about calling it “Meet THE Michael Stipe.”
Fans are eager to hear what he’s been working on, and it sounds like Stipe is just as excited to share it. Stay tuned for more updates!
