Rock Hall of Famer Releases Rare Solo Track as Theme to Steve Carell's New Show

Michael Stipe's collaboration with super-producer Andrew Watt is the theme song for HBO's 'Rooster'.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Michael Stipe, the former frontman of the iconic rock band R.E.M., has released a new solo track titled "I Played the Fool" that serves as the theme song for the HBO series "Rooster" starring Steve Carell. Stipe co-wrote the song with acclaimed producer Andrew Watt, who has worked with a wide range of artists from the Rolling Stones to Lady Gaga. The track features contributions from other notable musicians like Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and former Red Hot Chili Peppers member Josh Klinghoffer.

Why it matters

This collaboration between Stipe and Watt marks a rare solo release from the reclusive Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, who has been slowly unveiling new music over the past decade. The theme song also comes after Stipe made a surprise appearance at a recent concert honoring the 40th anniversary of R.E.M.'s classic album "Lifes Rich Pageant", further stoking fan excitement around the prospect of new music from the iconic singer.

The details

"I Played the Fool (Main Title Theme)" was quietly released to streaming services on March 8, followed by an official announcement by Watertower Music on March 9. Stipe shares credit for the song with super-producer Andrew Watt, known for his work with a diverse array of artists. The track also features contributions from Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and former Red Hot Chili Peppers member Josh Klinghoffer.

  • The song was released on March 8, 2026.
  • Stipe made a rare live appearance on March 7, 2026, performing R.E.M. classics for the first time since 2008.

The players

Michael Stipe

The former frontman of the iconic rock band R.E.M. and a recent inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Andrew Watt

A super-producer known for his work with a wide range of artists, from the Rolling Stones to Lady Gaga.

Travis Barker

The drummer for the punk rock band Blink-182, who contributed to the track.

Josh Klinghoffer

A former member of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who played guitar and piano on the song.

Steve Carell

The acclaimed actor who stars in the HBO series "Rooster", for which Stipe's song serves as the theme.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm thrilled to lend my voice to Rooster – as a giant fan of everyone involved, it's a real honor to be included with 'I Played The Fool,'”

— Michael Stipe (Parade)

“Michael Stipe is a hero of mine. A chance to write a song with him was that of a dream…He is one of the true great songwriters of this lifetime and he did what only he could do on this song. He sets 'Rooster' off to the moon by making you laugh and cry at the same time with the best clapping tv theme song since Friends,”

— Andrew Watt, Producer (Parade)

The takeaway

This collaboration between Michael Stipe and Andrew Watt showcases the continued creative output of the former R.E.M. frontman, who remains a highly respected and influential figure in the music industry even as he has stepped back from the spotlight in recent years. The release of this new solo track, along with Stipe's surprise live performance, suggests fans may have more new music to look forward to from the iconic singer.