R.E.M. rereleases 'Radio Free Europe' single to benefit threatened service

The rock band R.E.M. is putting out a special pressing of its first single, “Radio Free Europe,” to benefit the real Radio Free Europe. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty is among the U.S. government-funded services that broadcast news to foreign markets that have been targeted by President Donald Trump's administration, which claims they promote a liberal viewpoint. A judge this week ordered the Republican administration to restore $12 million in funding appropriated by Congress after the station's lawyers said it would shut down in June without it. R.E.M. singer Michael Stipe says the Athens, Georgia-based band wants to send a shout-out to RFE/RL journalists. Sales of the band's five-song EP will benefit the service.