R.E.M. discusses band's breakup, friendship and Songwriters Hall of Fame honor

R.E.M. started as a college band and quickly grew into a supergroup, taking indie rock to the top of the pop charts with an exceptional catalog of 15 studio albums. On Thursday, the band will be recognized for its achievements by being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

The iconic group – featuring frontman Michael Stipe on vocals, Peter Buck on guitar, Mike Mills on bass and Bill Berry on drums – decided to part ways in 2011 after a decades-long run. 

In a rare interview, the group talked about how they formed, found their sound and what led to their breakup.