The Independent — R.E.M.'s sudden announcement on their website last night that they were splitting up after 31 years was a bolt from the blue, catching even some of those close to them I contacted unawares. But as soon as the news had sunk in, it seemed only natural ... more info

Chicago Tribune — On the day of R.E.M.'s break-up , a quick guide to the group's essential albums: more info

L.A. Times - Entertainment — Statement: "We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished."Statement: "We walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished." more info

Perez Hilton — Oh boy! We really hope this isn't the real reason why R.E.M. broke up! Poppa Bear Michael Stipe posted a video of himself on his Tumblr exposing his peen for all the world to see! We're shiny happy people, indeed! WARNING: NSFW NSFW NSFW!! CLICK HERE... more info

Chicago Tribune — R.E.M. broke up Wednesday, with an exit nearly as modest as its entrance. more info

Sky News — Grammy-winning US rock group REM have announced they are to split after more than 30 years together where they sold millions of records. more info

Music News Net — MUSIC NEWS- No surprise, with the word that former "indie rockers" R.E.M., known to many as "America's Best Rock & Roll Band", have announced today that they're ending their run and will "call it a day" after 30+ years of... more info

Altsounds — Today, REM have announced to their fans that they have called it a day. After 31 years of making music that have touched many people over the world, the band personally thank their friends, their much loved fans and their co- conspirators for their ... more info

NME — The band have announced they're quitting after 31 years and 15 albums more info

Mercury News, California — R.E.M., one of the most popular and influential U.S. rock bands of the past 30 years, announced Wednesday it is calling it quits. Vote: Is R.E.M. the greatest rock band ever from America? more info