UGA Chapel Bell Rings out to R.E.M.

What says Athens more than R.E.M.’s music and the dong of the http://remhq.com/index.phpafter a home football victory?

Well, a few things might, but not in a public service announcement slated to debut during ESPN’s showing of the Georgia vs. Boise State game at the Georgia Dome on Sept. 3. Afterwards, the 30-second spot will run during all televised UGA games.

You can see the Chapel Bell creation by liking a Facebook page, where you can also tell other readers what’s special about Athens, UGA or even the spot itself.

It was created pro bono by four UGA alums of the Grady College, all of whom work in advertising in Atlanta. Calling themselves “The Bulldog Collective,” the team comprised of Mike Martin (ABJ ’95), Ron Huey (ABJ’ 83), Jason Hatfield (ABJ ’95), and Glen Owen (ABJ ’90) did the project.

Accompanying scenes of town and the bell is a soundtrack of “Oh My Heart,” from R.E.M.’s latest album, Collapse Into Now.

“The enthusiasm of the filmmakers, the resonance of the song in the spot, and the band’s love and respect for Athens—those were the factors in our decision,” said long-time R.E.M. manager Bertis Downs of his and the band members’ approval of the concept and the song’s use.  “As alumni ourselves, we’re proud of the PSA and feel the song really complements the film’s emotion and imagery.”