Walk Unafraid

Album: Up (1998)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • R.E.M. play this at many of their concerts. The message is about finding courage and not being afraid: "I'll trip, fall, pick myself up and walk unafraid." >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Joe - Baltimore, MD
  • This was inspired by Michael Stipe's longtime heroine Patti Smith. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Martin - Rostock, Germany
  • Swedish duo First Aid Kit recorded a somber cover for the soundtrack of the 2014 hiking drama Wild. The Söderberg sisters were approached by Wild music supervisor Susan Jacobs to work on the soundtrack in 2014. "Our parents played a lot of R.E.M. growing-up - 'Losing My Religion' was probably one of the first of the group's songs we heard," Klara Söderberg told Billboard magazine. "'But 'Walk Unafraid' and the lyrics 'I'll trip, fall, pick myself up and walk unafraid' resonate with Cheryl's story in the film."

Comments: 3

  • Terry from Ottawa, CanadaWhere can I find a copy of the live version, if one exits?
  • Matthew from Milford, MaMan, the live version of this is fantastic!!!!! AWESOME SONG!!!!
  • Theresa from Kingston, OhI love this song so much. It's one of the first R.E.M. song I ever heard, and it's still one of my favorites.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Tim McIlrath of Rise Against

Tim McIlrath of Rise AgainstSongwriter Interviews

Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath explains the meanings behind some of their biggest songs and names the sci-fi books that have influenced him.

Maria Muldaur

Maria MuldaurSongwriter Interviews

The "Midnight At The Oasis" singer is an Old Time gal. She talks about her jug band beginnings and shares a Dylan story.

Don Felder

Don FelderSongwriter Interviews

Don breaks down "Hotel California" and other songs he wrote as a member of the Eagles. Now we know where the "warm smell of colitas" came from.

George Clinton

George ClintonSongwriter Interviews

When you free your mind, your ass may follow, but you have to make sure someone else doesn't program it while it's wide open.

Adele

AdeleFact or Fiction

Despite her reticent personality, Adele's life and music are filled with intrigue. See if you can spot the true tales.

Rickie Lee Jones

Rickie Lee JonesSongwriter Interviews

Rickie Lee Jones on songwriting, social media, and how she's handling Trump.