When Michael Stipe wasn’t sharing unforgettable kisses with legendary Beat poets like Allen Ginsberg, he captivated audiences as the enigmatic frontman of R.E.M., widely regarded as one of America’s greatest rock bands. Stipe’s magnetic allure, boundless creativity, and enigmatic writing style struck a chord with millions of listeners, propelling R.E.M. from their early college rock, jangle-pop days to become a colossal stadium act. One of Stipe’s most iconic trademarks was his mysterious blue “goblin” stripe mask, which he proudly sported during the early 2000s, notably at the band’s electrifying performance at Live 8 in 2005. In true fashion of other LGBTQ+ musicians such as Pete Burns and Janis Joplin, Stipe resisted being confined to a narrow definition of his sexuality. In a candid interview with gay magazine Butt in 2004, he eloquently expressed his belief that the term ‘queer’ embraces a more inclusive perspective that acknowledges the complexities and nuances of human identity.”
LGBTQ Movie and Series database
