It really is the end of the world as we know it...
R.E.M. had the perfect response after Donald Trump used the band's tune, "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)," as a rally song.
The rockers' 1987 megahit was used by the Republican presidential candidate at a "Stop the Iran Deal" rally in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. Suffice it to say the members of R.E.M. were not exactly happy about this and released an official statement about it on their Facebook page that night.
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Not only did they spell out the fact that they never gave Trump permission to use their song, the band also pointed out that there are bigger issues to focus on than the 69-year-old entrepreneur's attention-grabbing antics.
"While we do not authorize or condone the use of our music at this political event, and do ask that these candidates cease and desist from doing so, let us remember that there are things of greater importance at stake here," R.E.M. said in the statement. "The media and the American voter should focus on the bigger picture, and not allow grandstanding politicians to distract us from the pressing issues of the day and of the current Presidential campaign."
The band members truly practice what they preach. Earlier in the day, bassist Mike Mills (not to be confused with Nicki Minaj's boyfriend, rapper Meek Mills), tweeted his disdain for Trump.
"Personally, I think the Orange Clown will do anything for attention. I hate giving it to him," Mills wrote.
Personally, I think the Orange Clown will do anything for attention. I hate giving it to him.
— Mike Mills (@m_millsey) September 9, 2015WATCH: Carrie Underwood Covers R.E.M. at The Global Citizen Festival
But, oh man, were lead singer Michael Stipe's feelings on the matter even better.
"Go f**k yourselves, the lot of you--you sad, attention grabbing, power-hungry little men," Stipe said through Mills' Twitter account. "Do not use our music or my voice for your moronic charade of a campaign."
...moronic charade of a campaign."--Michael Stipe
— Mike Mills (@m_millsey) September 9, 2015WATCH: Donald Trump Throws His Support Behind Kanye West's 2020 Presidential Bid
Apparently the end of the world is Trump using any R.E.M. song in his campaign. He probably should've seen the steam from Stipe's ears coming miles and miles away.