The
music of Athens, Georgia, includes a wide variety of popular music and was an important part of the early evolution of
alternative rock and
new wave. The city is well known as the home of chart-topping bands like
R.E.M. and
The B-52s, and several long-time
indie rock groups.
Athens hosts the
Athens Symphony Orchestra and other music institutions, as well as prominent local music media, such as the college radio station
WUOG. Much of the modern Athens music scene relies on students from the large
University of Georgia campus in the city. The University sponsors
Western classical performances and groups specializing in other styles.