On this date in 1981, R.E.M. released their debut single, RADIO FREE EUROPE (Jul 8, 1981) The track, which would later be re-recorded for their first full-length album, marked the beginning of a journey that would see the Athens, Georgia quartet become one of the most influential alternative rock bands of their generation. The original recording of "Radio Free Europe" was a far cry from the polished sound that would later define R.E.M.'s major label output. Produced by Mitch Easter at his Drive-