R.E.M.

In July 2005, R.E.M. performed at Live 8 in Hyde Park, London, which was a monumental event aimed at raising awareness and funds to combat global poverty. At this point in their career, R.E.M. was riding high on the success of their critically acclaimed album "Around the Sun," released in 2004. This album marked a period of introspection for the band, as it explored themes of melancholy and societal issues. Their performance at Live 8 included their iconic song "Man on the Moon," which not only showcased their enduring appeal but also highlighted their commitment to social causes. Interestingly, the band's involvement in such a high-profile event emphasized their transition from alternative rock icons to mainstream champions of activism, reflecting their evolution throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. The performance was part of a larger campaign that reached around 2 billion viewers, underscoring the global impact of both the event and the band's legacy.

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