This article is from the R.E.M. FAQ, by Ron Henry (rgh3@cornell.edu) with numerous contributions by others.
The song "Sponge" recorded by R.E.M. is actually a composition by Georgia
singer-songwriter Vic Chesnutt, and R.E.M's cover of the tune is included
on the compilation record Sweet Relief II along with other Chesnutt songs
performed by various bands. The proceeds of the album go to a charity fund
that assists musicians with medical expenses (Chesnutt himself is a
parapalegic). The song "Sponge" comes from his album West of Rome (which
Stipe produced) and he did an interesting (if loose) "cover" of R.E.M.'s
"It's the End of the World..." for the Surprise Your Pig R.E.M. tribute
album.
 
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