Why did Michael stipe select rem as name for group?

Michael Stipe, the lead singer of R.E.M., has stated that the name R.E.M. was chosen for its ambiguity and the sense of curiOSity it evokes. The acronym stands for "Rapid Eye Movement," a stage of sleep associated with dreaming, which aligns with the band's introspective and often surreal lyrical themes. Stipe appreciated the way the name sounded and its potential for interpretation, allowing listeners to engage with the band's music on a deeper level.