There's a great distinction between actors and musicians, in that musicians for the most part have pride of ownership. We're not handed someone else's work to interpret; we're interpreting our own work.
Michael Stipe (REM) - Music - Acting - Work

I think a lot of people that wind up being public figures, there might be some degree of insecurity that leads you to desire that kind of attention.
Michael Stipe (REM) - Celebrity - Think

The degree to which I apply myself as an artist, as a song writer, is at the very least absolutely sincere and giving everything that I can. And that counts for something.
Michael Stipe (REM) - Work - Music - Artists - Belief

We wanted George W Bush the fuck out of the White House and we wanted John Kerry in. And it didn't work. (Vote for Change Tour)
Michael Stipe (REM) - Action - Political - F##k

See also Michael Stipe REM Biography