REM split: Fans pay tribute

Digital Spy readers have paid tribute to REM following the announcement of their split.

The 'Losing My Religion' group officially parted ways yesterday after 31 years together, insisting in a statement that they "walk away with a great sense of gratitude, of finality, and of astonishment at all we have accomplished".

Digital Spy users were largely saddened by the news, with Sylar11 posting: "Great band at their best. Sad to see them split up, happy to see it was amicable. They'll be remembered fondly overall, I think," while Muttley76 said: "At their best they were a totally amazing band, and so influential."

gav016 said they were "pretty gutted it's over", but added: "Some might argue that they were past their peak or overrated, but for me they were great, and are going to leave behind a fantastic legacy of songs."

Other readers believed that the split was long overdue. Gneiss admitted: "I used to like REM, but haven't listened to anything they've done for years," while m06een00 said: "I think REM peaked about 20 years ago, although some say that happened earlier in the '80s. Perhaps U2 (who were around just before them) should take a leaf out of their book."

Meanwhile, Gulftastic paid tribute to the band with the message: "So many great songs. Bye REM. Thanks for the brilliant music."

REM release their final hits compilation, Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982–2011, on November 15.

> Michael Stipe 'helped Snow Patrol write album'
> REM Stipe 'grappled with contradictions'

Watch REM's 'Nightswimming' music video below: