The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite cover

The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite

R.E.M. · 1993

6 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · jangle pop

A playful blend of jangle pop and alternative rock that evokes nostalgia with its quirky charm.

The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite is a single by R.E.M., released in 1993. A playful blend of jangle pop and alternative rock that evokes nostalgia with its quirky charm. The single became notable for its chart performance, reaching number one on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and marking R.E.M.'s continued evolution in mainstream popularity. Its playful homage to the classic song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' highlighted the band's knack for merging humor with poignant themes, showcasing their influence on subsequent alternative and indie rock artists. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite sound like?

A playful blend of jangle pop and alternative rock that evokes nostalgia with its quirky charm. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.

What makes The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite by R.E.M. notable?

The single became notable for its chart performance, reaching number one on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and marking R.E.M.'s continued evolution in mainstream popularity. Its playful homage to the classic song 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' highlighted the band's knack for merging humor with poignant themes, showcasing their influence on subsequent alternative and indie rock artists. In 1993, R.E.M. was riding high after the commercial success of their previous album, 'Out of Time.' 'The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite' served as a lead single from their album 'Automatic for the People,' which would solidify their status in alternative rock. This release came during a period where the band was increasingly integrating mainstream appeal into their sound while maintaining their college rock roots.

How many songs are on The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite?

The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Tracklist

2 tracks·6:48

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite Standout 4:06
  • 2 The Lion Sleeps Tonight Standout 2:42

Release Date

March 19, 1993

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

6 min 48 sec