the online live music gig guide for the midlands

Stipe have been around since '96. The first line-up gigged mainly in the North of England and Scotland.
Over the next few years vocalist Rick also fronted Midlands based 'Monster', playing many gigs throughout the
U.K and Europe, honing and perfecting Michael Stipe's very individual stage persona.

It was with 'Monster' that Rick met Stipe keyboard player Pete.
The new Stipe line-up was completed around September 2002.

Rick Southern - Vocals
Pete Nicholls - Keyboards / acoustic guitar
Tony Williams - Bass / acoustic guitar / backing vocals
Paul Tonge - Guitar / mandolin / backing vocals
Karl Hand - Drums / percussion

This line-up brings together over thirty years of gigging experience of five talented and experienced musicians.

Since January 1st 2003 the band have played everything from small clubs to large festivals all across England, Ireland and Wales.

Highlights include :-

Tours to Ireland.
A headline slot at the Arts in the Park festival, Blackburn.
A hugely successful appearance at Liverpool's Mathew Street Festival
Release of a self-penned CD single "(Need to) Breathe"
Festival appearance in Belgium.


Stipe have over sixty R.E.M songs in their repertoire. This list is continuing to grow.
Just like R.E.M, this enables the band to change their set considerably and keeps everything sounding fresh.

There are many tribute bands that claim to be "the ultimate" or "the U.K's No.1".
Stipe take this to another level; off-stage, down-to-earth and approachable - on-stage enthusiasm and energy make compelling viewing, maintaining the essence that is R.E.M.

Stipe ARE the definitive R.E.M. tribute.