[AntiRush]

I think you're underestimating the influence of R.E.M. on their peers and those that follow. The first 3 that come to mind:

Nirvana - Cobain famously said "If I could write just a couple of songs as good as what they’ve written".

The National - Toured with, worked with, still bring Michael Stipe onstage every once in a while.

Radiohead - Thom Yorke: "I’ve ripped them off left, right and centre for years and years and years and years."

[tptacek]

I concede Radiohead (though, of course, not Nirvana). First time I saw Radiohead was at an REM show (Patti Smith made a surprise appearance). I'd still go to bat for the argument that REM's influences are more influential than REM itself is.

[cschep]

Is being "your favorite band's favorite band" not the most insanely high praise though? I can't think of anything cooler.

[cglace]

Some other bands that list them as an influence are Pavement, Pearl Jam, Live, Collective Soul, Alice in Chains, Better Than Ezra, Liz Phair, The Decemberists, Wilco.

[navane]

Wait what does that even mean, "REM's influences are more influential than REM itself is"?