He performed "Man Who Sold the World" ahead of Friday's Radio City Music Hall tribute to Bowie featuring Stipe, Mumford and Sons, Blondie, Cat Power, and The Roots.

Following Bowie's sudden death in January, Stipe penned a touching social media tribute to recognize the late star's unique gifts and otherworldly perspective: "Right now, it feels as if the solar system is off its axis, as if one of our main planetary anchors has lost its orbit. That said--I am certain that wherever Bowie is now--I want to be there someday."