What makes Tongue by R.E.M. notable?

'Tongue' received significant airplay on college radio stations and was praised for its lyrical depth during a time when alternative rock was experiencing mainstream popularity. The song's themes resonated within the context of the post-grunge music scene, further solidifying R.E.M.'s influence in shaping the sound of the 1990s. Released on October 21, 1995, 'Tongue' marked R.E.M.'s transition into the mid-90s alternative rock landscape following their commercial success with 'Monster' earlier that year. This single exemplified the band’s shift towards more personal and contemplative themes, reflecting their evolving sound after a decade of innovation in the genre.