"But we're very much an American band and that's that. I think that's part of the appeal outside of this country and it might be part of the reason people turned away from us within this country, because familiarity breeds contempt"

This quote by Michael Stipe speaks with the idea that being an American band can be both a true blessing and a curse. On one hand, it can be a source of pride and a method to connect with individuals beyond the United States. On the other hand, it can result in individuals within the nation turning away from the band due to a sense of familiarity and contempt. This quote speaks to the concept that being an American band can be both a positive and an unfavorable. It can be a source of pride and connection, but it can likewise cause people within the nation turning away from the band due to a sense of familiarity and contempt. Ultimately, it is up to the band to decide how they want to utilize their American identity to their benefit.