Michael Stipe Plays First Solo Gig Since REM Split, Supports Patti Smith

Former REM frontman Michael Stipe surprised fans earlier this week, when he played his first solo gig since the band split by supporting Patti Smith in New York. Footage and audio are below. The alt-rock icon has remained coy about his potential return to the stage since they amicably called it a day back in 2011, but on Monday (29 December, 2014), Stipe appeared unnanounced at NYC's Webster Hall to open for Patti Smith. With a six-song set, Stipe played REM’s 'Saturn Return' and 'New Test Lep...