Which rapper appears on R.E.M.'s 'Radio Song'?

Which rapper appears on R.E.M.'s “Radio Song”? KRS-One appears on the track, delivering the rap section alongside Michael Stipe’s vocals.

“Radio Song” was released on R.E.M.’s 1991 album Out of Time, the record that also produced major hits including “Losing My Religion” and “Shiny Happy People.” The song is a pointed critique of commercial radio, especially its repetitive programming and limited space for adventurous or politically challenging music.

KRS-One was a major figure in politically conscious hip-hop. He had already established himself with Boogie Down Productions before appearing on the R.E.M. recording, making the collaboration a notable meeting of alternative rock and New York rap. His contribution is sometimes confused with other prominent rappers associated with socially aware music, including Chuck D or Q-Tip, but neither provides the rap on this song.

The track is credited as “Radio Song” by R.E.M. featuring KRS-One, sometimes styled in contemporary credits as KRS-1. That guest appearance is the key identifying detail.