What makes Get Up by R.E.M. notable?

'Get Up' became an anthem for college radio, reaching notable chart positions and solidifying R.E.M.'s influence in the alternative rock scene. Its playful sound and lyrical themes resonated with a generation, contributing to the band's growing popularity and paving the way for their commercial breakthrough. Released in 1989, 'Get Up' came as R.E.M.'s first single from their album 'Green'. At this point, the band was transitioning into mainstream success following their critically acclaimed work on 'Document', marking a significant shift in their career trajectory.

How many songs are on Get Up?

Get Up has 2 tracks, running approximately 4 minutes.

Get Up

R.E.M. · 1989

4 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A buoyant blend of jangly guitars and upbeat rhythms that captures the playful spirit of alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Get Up — This title track encapsulates the album's energetic vibe and features catchy hooks that showcase R.E.M.'s knack for blending pop sensibilities with alternative rock.
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Funtime — With its frenetic pace and whimsical lyrics, this track serves as a bold statement of artistic freedom, embodying the playful experimentation prevalent in R.E.M.'s early work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases R.E.M.'s transition to mainstream with catchy hooks and varied styles.

What we noticed

The lead track 'Get Up' features a prominent jangly guitar riff that drives the upbeat tempo throughout its duration.
The song employs a call-and-response vocal structure, with the chorus inviting listener participation.
The second track 'Funtime' shifts to a more experimental sound, incorporating elements of punk and new wave.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Get Up' marked R.E.M.'s transition to mainstream success, solidifying their influence.
Themes: playful experimentation· college town energy· jangle pop nostalgia
Moods: Energetic· Uplifting
Career context: Released in 1989, 'Get Up' came as R.E.M.'s first single from their album 'Green'. At this point, the band was transitioning into mainstream success following their critically acclaimed work on 'Document', marking a significant shift in their career trajectory.
Stylistic neighbors: The B-52's· The Smiths· Pixies

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Get Up

The chorus shifts to an uplifting call to action, encouraging listeners to rise and embrace life.

This communal rallying cry employs inclusive language that transforms personal reflection into a collective experience, inviting audience participation.