Founding R.E.M. drummer Bill Berry turns 57 today. In additon to his drumming, Berry contributed lyrics and played: bass, guitar, mandolin and keyboards among other instruments on R.E.M. albums. While on tour in Switzerland in 1995, he collpased on-stage, the result of a ruptured brain aneurysm. Two years later, he amicably left the band but has played with R.E.M. a few times since, including when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Of local interest, Bill and his family lived in Wauwatosa from 1961-1968.
To celebrate his birthday we will play "Orange Crush" from R.E.M.'s 'Green' album, their major-label debut for Warner Brothers.
We get a cover of "Orange Crush" from moody British band Editors.