Bill Berry, the former drummer of R.E.M., left the band in 1997 after suffering a brain aneurysm while on tour in Europe. Despite a successful surgery, Berry decided to leave the music industry behind and pursue a quieter life as a farmer. He admits to having second thoughts about leaving the band and acknowledges that his health issues may have contributed to his decision. In a recent interview to celebrate the band's induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Berry expressed regret over walking away from what they had created but is grateful to have rekindled his friendship with his former bandmates Michael Stipe, Mike Mills, and Peter Buck. Despite his health challenges, Berry refuses to use them as an excuse, and is now enjoying a renewed sense of camaraderie with the rest of the band.