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Coffee Break

Coffee Break: Music of Athens

by Jill Riley and Nilufer Arsala

May 18, 2026

A fire hydrant in Athens, Georgia, is decorated in honor of the city's vibrant music scene.
A fire hydrant in Athens, Georgia, is decorated in honor of the city's vibrant music scene.courtesy Visit Athens

On May 18, 1991, R.E.M.'s seventh studio album, Out Of Time, hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts, bringing the band onto the international stage from its home of Athens, Georgia.

R.E.M. is just one of the groups that has roots in this musical hotspot — which is also home to the University of Georgia. Classic bands like the B-52s and Pylon emerged from the city, as well as up-and-coming artists like Clover County.

Today, let’s explore the musical history of Athens by creating a playlist of current and former residents.

So for today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what songs from artists or bands with ties to Athens, Georgia, would you like to hear?


Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played