Los Angeles, CA - April 18, 2018 - Seven years after legendary rockers R.E.M. called it quits in the music business, the band is still receiving accolades and awards in the music industry. The latest celebration took place this evening at a quiet ceremony in the lobby of Billboard Magazine's offices. Industry leaders gathered in recognition of an unprecedented streak of success for one of the band's major chart toppers.
Speaking to music industry executives and media representatives Billboard editor Mike Bruno announced, "We are thrilled to confirm that, once again, R.E.M.'s 1992 hit 'Man on the Moon' has been certified the nation's best-selling single about the late comedian Andy Kaufman for an unprecedented 25th consecutive year."
Former band front man Michael Stipe commented to the crowd, "When we first attended this ceremony in 1993, I don't think any of us imagined it would become an annual event. This is a joke right?"
Guitarist Peter Buck did not attend the ceremony but sent a message via his agent, "For the love of God, stop sending me these certificates," wrote Buck. "I don't need 25 of these things."
Bruno said the band should be proud of the song's success. "Our statisticians are still putting together the numbers, but we have reason to believe this is the most popular song in history that mentions a comedian by name."
Stipe replied in his well-known mumble something about the end of the world.
When asked for comment, bassist Mike Mills expressed gratitude that he was asked a question at all. He continued, "Honestly, I can't believe we've won this 25 years in a row. We were all certain that Tony Clifton would have come up with something by now."
Clifton, a retired lounge performer, could not be reached for comment.