Michael Stipe: First Solo Single Out

Michael Stipe has “jumped back in,” as he puts it, and released his first solo work since R.E.M.‘s 2011 break-up.

“Your Capricious Soul,” which sees Stipe singing over a bed of synthesized music, is currently available as a free download at MichaelStipe.com. However, Stipe is encouraging a donation of 77 cents (or more if you choose) to Extinction Rebellion “to help aid their work of non-violent protest of government inaction to the climate emergency.” With a donation, you receive a bundle that includes a master-quality audio version the song, its video, Stipe’s lyric document, a print-ready poster, stencil and an animated flip-book portrait.

The song’s release is tied to the “International Rebellion” climate justice protests, which take place on Monday. For the next year, Stipe is redirecting all of his earnings from sales and synchronization licensing to Extinction Rebellion. He says the organization gave him “the incentive to push the release and not wait. Our relationship to the environment has been a lifelong concern, and I now feel hopeful—optimistic, even. I believe we can bring the kind of change needed to improve our beautiful planet earth, our standing and our place on it.”