Music News & Notes

R.E.M. Releasing 25th Anniversary Edition of 'Fables of the Reconstruction'

R.E.M. have already celebrated the 30th anniversary of their first live performance in April, but now they will be commemorating yet another milestone. The Athens, Ga., rockers will release a 25th anniversary edition of their third studio album, 'Fables of the Reconstruction.'

The expanded double-disc package will feature the digitally remastered original record and 14 unreleased demo recordings that were cut before the album's studio sessions. A new set of liner notes by guitarist Peter Buck will also be included.

The remastered original album will also be available on vinyl. 'Fables of the Reconstruction' will drop on July 13.

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WEEKEND NACHOS Release Limited Edition 12” EP; Announce Tour Dates

Weekend Nachos see the release of their brand new 'Bleed' E.P., available now on 12” vinyl. 'Bleed' features two new tracks, “Bleed” and “Observer”, and has been pressed on black vinyl with a limited number on white that will be available directly from the band during their upcoming shows.

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Paul McCartney 'Could Believe It' When Barack Obama Sang Beatles Song To His Wife

In a visit to the White House earlier this month, Sir Paul McCartney has stated that President Barack Obama sang along when he performed. The former Beatle sang the band's hit "Michelle" in honor of the president's wife during a small gig in the East Room.

Speaking about his rendition, Sir Paul said he was surprised when Obama began singing the song's lyrics to his wife.

"I start singing Michelle, and he (Barack Obama) starts singing it to her,” he told BBC Newsbeat. "It's great, I couldn't believe it, he's singing the French bits, he's leaning over to his kids and going, 'This is about mum!'"

Obama presented Sir Paul with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, which is awarded by the Library of Congress. The previous recipients were Wonder and Paul Simon.

Sir Paul is celebrating his 68th birthday today (June 18).