Michael Stipe Makes Live Return As Surprise Opener

Michael Stipe of R.E.M. shocked fans who attended last night’s Patti Smith concert at Webster Hall in New York City by taking the stage as Smith’s surprise opening act. Stipe appearances have been few and far between since R.E.M. broke up in 2011 and last night’s six-song set was by far the most substantial since that time.

He said he hadn't really "done this" since 2008 other than when he sang with Chris Martin during the 12-12-12 Sandy Benefit. And that he'd been living on Stephen Colbert's shelf for the last 3 years 😂😂😂 (if you didn't watch the Colbert finale, scroll down a little in my feed for another pic of Michael) #MichaelStipe #PattiSmith #WebsterHall @websterhall

A photo posted by suziemay212 (@suziemay212) on Dec 12, 2014 at 9:56pm PST

Slicing Up Eyeballs reports that Stipe played keys and was joined by two other musicians. He opened with a cover of Vic Chesnutt and then launched into “Theme From New York, New York.” Michael honored Patti Smith by covering her song “Wing.” R.E.M.’s vast repertoire was represented by “Saturn Return” and “New Test Leper.” Stipe also covered Perfume Genius’ “Hood.”

Patti Smith is set to play Webster Hall again tonight. We’ll see if Stipe reprises his support role.

Listen to audio of some of Michael Stipe’s set from last night:

Setlist

Set: Lucinda Williams (Vic Chesnutt); New York, New York (John Kander); Wing (Patti Smith); Saturn Return (R.E.M.); Hood (Perfume Genius); New Test Leper (R.E.M.)