The legendary American Soul, R&B and Gospel singer Al Green released an incredible cover of R.E.M‘s hit “Everybody Hurts”. The musician talked about the song, saying: “Recording ‘Everybody Hurts,’ I could really feel the heaviness of the song and I wanted to inject a little touch of hope and light into it. There’s always a presence of light that can break through those times of darkness.”
R.E.M’s vocalist Michael Stipe also talked about the version, saying: “Speaking on behalf of the entire band — we could not be more honored, more flattered, more humbled. This is an epic moment for us.”
Hear the Al Green version for R.E.M’s “Everybody Hurts”
The track was produced by Clay Jones, Matthew Johnson and Patrick Addison. Were also part of the recording the musicians:
- Al Green – Lead Vocals
- Charles Hodges – Organ
- Archie Turner – Piano
- Leroy Hodges – Bass
- Steve Potts – Drums
- Will Sexton – Electric Guitar
- Clay Jones – Acoustic Guitar
- Lester Snell – String Arrangements
- Jennifer Anne Puckett – Viola
- Jessica Munson – Violin
- Wen Yih Yu – Violin
- Deja Samuel – Background Vocals
- Joyce A Jones – Background Vocals
- LaToya Strong Malone – Background Vocals
- Tangela Longstreet – Background Vocals
Al Green was born in Forrest City, Arkansas back in 1946 and started his musical career in 1966. He is best known for hits like “Tired of Being Alone”, “I’m Still in Love With You”, “Love and Happiness”, “Take Me to The River” and his most famous one: “Let’s Stay Together”. Until 2024 he released 29 studio albums. Green was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 by Natalie Cole.
“Everybody Hurts” remains one of the most famous R.E.M. songs and was released on their 1992 album Automatic for the People. It was a big hit worldwide, peaking in the top 10 in many countries.