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Readers' Sad Songs: No. 8


'Everybody Hurts'
R.E.M. (1992)

I was mostly numb after my divorce in the early '90s, and I didn't realize how sad I was until I heard R.E.M.'s 'Everybody Hurts' on the radio. That song absolutely crushed me. --Robert Scott, Atlanta, GA

I play this song every time I need a good cry. --Candice

You can just hear the pain and sorrow in [Michael Stipe's] voice. --Dan

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15 Comments

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joan bezner

The first time i heard this song "love Hurts",the emotions it revealed are so raw with pain, but also show a realistic view of life!!

July 08 2007 at 2:28 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Donna

This is an awesome song and very sad. I love it.

May 16 2007 at 1:22 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
hatch

This song helped me make it through a very difficult time in my life in the mid-90's when I was finally coming to terms with my horrible childhood, and everything was a mess. A few years later I sang it to my then-girlfriend and brought her to tears after a night out on the town...ahh, the memories!! Great song!!

May 16 2007 at 12:52 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Mendi

I find this song incredibly healing!! I have dealt with depression for over 20 years now due to a chemical imbalance and childhood trauma. This song reminds me it's okay to hurt. It helps release a lot of pain; but then the best part HANG ON !! Don't let yourself go!!

May 15 2007 at 11:56 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
kevin

While I agree that the undertone is sad, I have to say that it reminds us in the final lines to hold on. It tells us that we are not alone when we hurt, everybody hurts. After seeing the video and the thoughts that go through all of the peoples heads I have to say I am one of them too facing my own demons everyday. But while I would want to end it all i still hold on because there is always that hope.

May 15 2007 at 11:46 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
JP

Not so sad just real You are on your own in this life - Just hang on so is everyone else! lifes good just realize it!!!!!!!!!!

May 15 2007 at 11:22 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
JP

This song ain't so sad its kinda reassurring that your not the only one who hurts - just hold on it will get better God Bless Michael Stipes

May 15 2007 at 10:49 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
rene

This song truly speaks of the hardships we all must face in this life. It's during these times that we realize how precious life is. Don't waste your time hurting other people or yourself. It will always be better in the end.

May 15 2007 at 10:02 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
leslie

this is a great song. sad. great song to slow dance to . . .

May 15 2007 at 9:28 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
YummyMummy

My brother and I had tickets to see R.E.M. in September of 1995 in Miami. Found out that morning that my brother's best friend Dave, who was also my dear friend, had committed suicide a day earlier. He was supposed to go with us to the concert that night. "Everybody Hurts" was the first song R.E.M. played that night. I still cry for Dave everytime I hear it.
R.I.P. Dave

May 15 2007 at 9:25 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply