John Michael Stipe, born January 4, 1960, is an American artist best known as the lead-singer and primary lyricist of alternative rock band, R.E.M. He is recognized for his cryptic lyrics and “mumbling” vocal style, most apparent on R.E.M.’s debut album, Murmur. As time went by, his lyrics and singing became less eccentric and eventually he even started putting his lyrics on the liner notes for R.E.M.’s albums. Since their breakup in 2011, Stipe has remained mostly quiet, but has returned to music with features on other people’s songs and by releasing a solo single, “Your Capricious Soul” in October, 2019.