R.E.M. to be
inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The queer-fronted band R.E.M. will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in a star-studded New York ceremony in March.

The Georgia rockers, led by the prolific Michael Stipe, shot to fame in the '80s, when they became leaders in the independent and college music scenes. The band is still vital; they're currently putting finishing touches on their next studio album for Warner Bros. Records.

Also being honored at the March 12 event at the Waldorf-Astoria will be punk legend Patti Smith, hip-hop impresarios Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, '60s girl group the Ronettes, and '80s rockers Van Halen, with both original lead singer David Lee Roth and his replacement, Sammy Hagar, in attendance. (The Advocate)