💿 R.E.M. - What's The Frequency, Kenneth? (Music History)
"What's The Frequency, Kenneth?" by R.E.M.: Unraveling the Enigmatic Message
"What's The Frequency, Kenneth?" is a captivating song by the legendary alternative rock band R.E.M. The track, released in 1994 as the lead single from their album "Monster," continues to intrigue listeners with its enigmatic lyrics and catchy melodies.
The title of the song refers to an incident that occurred in 1986, where news anchor Dan Rather was attacked on the streets of New York City by a man who kept repeating the question, "What's the frequency, Kenneth?" R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe became fascinated by this bizarre incident and used it as inspiration for the song's cryptic lyrics.
The true meaning behind "What's The Frequency, Kenneth?" remains subject to interpretation, as R.E.M. has never explicitly explained its intended message. However, the song is often seen as a commentary on the media and the confusion and disillusionment it can create. The phrase "frequency" can be seen as a metaphor for the overwhelming bombardment of information and the struggle to make sense of it all.
With its distorted guitar riffs and energetic vocals, the song captures a sense of frustration and disorientation. It reflects the band's desire to break free from traditional song structures and explore new sonic territories. "What's The Frequency, Kenneth?" showcases R.E.M.'s ability to create thought-provoking and evocative music that resonates with listeners on both an intellectual and emotional level.
Despite its enigmatic nature, the song became a major hit for R.E.M., reaching high chart positions in several countries and solidifying their status as one of the most influential alternative rock bands of the era. It remains a favorite among fans and continues to be celebrated for its unique sound and captivating lyrics.
In addition to "What's The Frequency, Kenneth?", R.E.M. has an extensive discography filled with chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed songs. Some of their other notable tracks include "Losing My Religion," "Everybody Hurts," and "Man on the Moon." These songs showcase the band's versatility and their ability to craft powerful and memorable music.
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