I've Been High
R.E.M. · Reveal
Have not, will travel.
Have I missed the big reveal?
Do my eyes
Do my eyes seem empty?
I've forgotten how this feels.
I've been high
I've climbed so high
but life sometimes
it washes over me.
Have you been?
Have done, will travel.
I fell down on my knees.
Was I wrong?
I don't know, don't answer.
I just needed to believe.
I've been high
I've climbed so high
but life sometimes
it washes over me.
So
I dive into a pool so cool and deep that if I sink I sink
and when I swim I fly so high
What I want
What I really want is
Just to live my life on high.
And I know
I know you want the same
I can see it in your eyes.
I've been high
I've climbed so high
but life sometimes
it washes over me.
Washes over me
Close my eyes so I can see
make my make-believe believe
in me.
About I've Been High
"I've Been High" stands as a defining track on R.E.M.'s 1987 album *Reveal*, capturing the band's signature blend of jangly guitars, driving rhythms, and introspective lyrics. Released during a pivotal era when the group transitioned from their early indie roots to a more polished, radio-friendly sound, the song exemplifies their ability to weave personal vulnerability with anthemic energy. The track features the distinctive vocal delivery of Michael Stipe, who often balanced poetic observation with a conversational tone, while the instrumentation showcased the collaborative chemistry between Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Bennett. As a staple of the alternative rock canon, the recording reflects the cultural zeitgeist of the mid-1980s, addressing themes of intoxication and emotional clarity without relying on explicit narrative. Its enduring appeal lies in its atmospheric production and the way it encapsulates the band's unique voice, making it a quintessential listen for fans of the genre and those who appreciate the evolution of R.E.M.'s discography.