Soul music icon Al Green has captivated audiences by turning his focus to the beloved college rock band R.E.M., unveiling a soulful interpretation of their poignant 1993 single, “Everybody Hurts.” This fresh take adds a new dimension to the classic track, which has resonated with countless listeners over the years.

The much-anticipated cover was released on Tuesday, November 19, and showcases Green’s distinctive vocal style, blending it seamlessly with the song’s message of hope. Accompanied by a full band, including rich strings and harmonious backing vocalists, Green’s rendition transforms the original into a captivating experience that emphasizes the uplifting essence of the lyrics. His soulful delivery invites listeners to connect deeply with the song’s emotional landscape.

Reflecting on his experience with the song, Green shared, “Recording ‘Everybody Hurts’ was a profound moment for me as I could truly sense the weight of the song’s message. I aimed to infuse a sense of hope and brightness into it, reminding listeners that amid life’s struggles, there exists a light that can pierce through the darkest times.” His thoughtful reflection highlights the enduring relevance of the song’s message, resonating with those facing challenges.

“Everybody Hurts” was originally featured on the iconic 1992 album Automatic for the People, where it was released as the album’s second single. It quickly became the standout track, achieving remarkable success. The album itself climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, while “Everybody Hurts” made its mark by reaching No. 29 on the Hot 100 and peaking at an impressive No. 13 on the Pop Airplay charts. This success solidified its place in music history as a poignant anthem for those in need of comfort.

Over the years, “Everybody Hurts” has been embraced by various charitable organizations, including the Samaritans in the U.K., as well as initiatives like the Helping Haiti fund and the Disasters Emergency Committee. These organizations utilized the song in powerful cover versions to aid in relief efforts following significant tragedies, such as the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake. This collaborative effort featured contributions from renowned artists like Mariah Carey, Miley Cyrus, Rod Stewart, Jon Bon Jovi, and Kylie Minogue, ultimately reaching No. 21 on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart. The song’s legacy as a tool for healing and hope continues to thrive.

In February 2019, “Everybody Hurts” found itself at the center of a minor controversy when former President Donald Trump shared clips from his State of the Union address set to the song, which featured a montage of congressional Democrats appearing disheartened. In response, R.E.M. protested the use of their song, referencing their own 1988 track “World Leader Pretend” in their statement. Their efforts were successful in convincing Twitter to remove Trump’s original clip, highlighting the band’s strong stance on the message and integrity of their music.

Al Green’s rendition of “Everybody Hurts” marks his first single release since the previous year’s cover of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day.” This new interpretation follows a decade-long hiatus from original music, with Green’s first new release being a cover of Freddy Fender’s “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” in 2018. His last studio album, Lay It Down, released in 2008, achieved significant acclaim, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing his enduring talent and relevance in the music industry.