I just want to thank R.E.M. for the music. They were the first band to teach me that the goal was to create intelligent pop music. The 1995 Monster show was the 1st concert I’ve ever seen. To these pioneers of college/alternative/indie rock, I raise my glass with warmth & admiration. Most bands owe you a great deal whether they realize it or not. Thank you Michael Stipe for being one of most interesting frontmen of the past 30 years.