Watch Michael Stipe perform REM’s ‘E-Bow The Letter’ for first time since 2009

Michael Stipe performed R.E.M.’s “E-Bow The Letter” for the first time since 2009 at a festival event in Biarritz, joining members of The National. The return of the song, which Stipe said began taking shape in nearby San Sebastián, also revived memories of the bands’ touring friendship.

Stipe appeared at Mixtape, held to celebrate brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner turning 50, alongside Bryce Dessner and Matt Berninger. The song was released with Patti Smith on R.E.M.’s 1996 album *New Adventures in Hi-Fi*. Stipe also said his first solo song will arrive on New Year’s Eve, with his album planned for May.