Date of Birth: July 31, 1958
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Biography
William Thomas Berry, commonly known as Bill Berry, was born on July 31, 1958, in Duluth, Minnesota, USA. He is best known as the drummer for the alternative rock band R.E.M., one of the most influential bands of the 1980s and 1990s. Berry co-founded R.E.M. in 1980 with Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, and Mike Mills while they were students at the University of Georgia. The band achieved critical and commercial success with albums like “Murmur,” “Reckoning,” “Document,” and “Out of Time.” Berry’s drumming style was integral to R.E.M.’s sound, blending rock, folk, and alternative elements. In addition to his drumming, he occasionally contributed to songwriting and provided backing vocals. Berry is credited with writing the band’s 1991 hit “Everybody Hurts,” which has become an anthem for those struggling with depression and mental health issues. In 1997, Berry made headlines by announcing his departure from R.E.M. due to health concerns and a desire to spend more time with his family. Despite leaving the band, he remained on good terms with his bandmates and even joined them for occasional performances. After his departure from R.E.M., Berry largely stepped away from the music industry, focusing on farming and personal interests. He continues to live a relatively low-profile life in Georgia.
5 Interesting Facts about Bill Berry
1. Bill Berry suffered a brain aneurysm on stage during a performance in 1995 but made a full recovery.
2. He is credited with writing R.E.M.’s hit song “Everybody Hurts.”
3. After leaving R.E.M., Berry became a farmer and focused on personal interests away from the music industry.
4. He briefly reunited with R.E.M. for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
5. Berry is known for his humility and preference for a private life, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bill Berry
1. “I just wanted to have a life outside of the band. I wanted to be a farmer.”
2. “Leaving R.E.M. was a difficult decision, but ultimately it was the right one for my health and happiness.”
3. “Music has always been a part of me, but there comes a time when you need to prioritize other aspects of your life.”
4. “The guys in R.E.M. are like brothers to me. We shared an incredible journey together.”
5. “I’m grateful for the fans and the journey we had with R.E.M. It was an amazing ride.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Bill Berry’s net worth was estimated to be around $40 million.
Children
Bill Berry has two children, Owen Berry and John Berry. He has kept their lives private, respecting their wishes to stay out of the public eye.
Relevant Links
1. [R.E.M. Official Website](https://www.remhq.com/
2. [Bill Berry on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0077612/
3. [R.E.M. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction](https://www.rockhall.com/inductees/rem
4. [Bill Berry on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bill-berry-mn0000061558
