R.E.M.'s Bill Berry reflects on the difficult decision to leave the band at the height of their success, revealing the emotional turmoil and regrets that followed.
Bill Berry, the former drummer of the iconic band R.E.M., recently opened up about the emotional weight of leaving the group. In an interview with "CBS Mornings," Berry shared that the decision was a difficult one, filled with second thoughts and lingering regrets.
Berry, along with fellow University of Georgia students Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, and Mike Mills, formed R.E.M. in 1980. The band quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the best-selling bands of all time. However, in 1995, Berry suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm during a concert in Switzerland, collapsing on stage.
The Emotional Toll of Bill Berry's Departure from R.E.M.
After a full recovery, Berry shocked fans in 1997 when he announced his decision to leave R.E.M. The band continued as a trio until their disbandment in 2011.
Reflecting on his departure during the "CBS Mornings" interview, Berry's emotions became evident. "Of course I did," he said when asked if he had second thoughts. "That was a weird time for me and I made it weird for these guys, too."
The Emotional Toll of Bill Berry's Departure from R.E.M.
Berry's bandmates offered reassurance, stating that they respected his decision 100%. Mills reminded him that they were all still friends, despite his departure.
Berry acknowledged that his health crisis in Switzerland had been a turning point. "It may have lowered my energy level and I just didn’t have the drive I once did," he explained.
The Emotional Toll of Bill Berry's Departure from R.E.M.
While he initially didn't regret his decision to leave R.E.M., Berry admitted to some later regrets. "But enough about me," he said with a smile, as the group chuckled.
Over the years, Berry has occasionally reunited with Stipe, Mills, and Buck, including at their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. However, the quartet has ruled out a reunion tour, acknowledging that it would never be the same.
The Emotional Toll of Bill Berry's Departure from R.E.M.
Despite the emotional toll of Berry's departure, R.E.M. members have remained close friends. They recently reunited for an acoustic performance of "Losing My Religion" at their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Through Berry's honest reflections, we glimpse the profound impact of his decision to leave R.E.M. While his absence undoubtedly altered the band's trajectory, the enduring friendships and mutual respect among the former bandmates serve as a testament to the human connection that transcends musical collaborations.
The Emotional Toll of Bill Berry's Departure from R.E.M.
