The reference to "Jefferson" is not a historical reference, but a reference to R.E.M.'s manager at the time, Jefferson Holt. Somewhere in the late 90's / early '00's, Jefferson got fired by the band, I think because of some indiscretions with a member of R.E.M.'s crew. Now when Stipe sings this song, he changes "Jefferson" to "Washington."
LOVE THIS SONG.
The reference to "Jefferson" is not a historical reference, but a reference to R.E.M.'s manager at the time, Jefferson Holt. Somewhere in the late 90's / early '00's, Jefferson got fired by the band, I think because of some indiscretions with a member of R.E.M.'s crew. Now when Stipe sings this song, he changes "Jefferson" to "Washington."