Michael Stipe is one of the world's most famous musicians. As the lead vocalist for R.E.M., Stipe was an instrumental force in the band's three decades of politico-social activism. He also had a hand in managing the band's image, a factoid that's unsurprising to those familiar with Stipe's strong personal style.

But while he's known for minimalist looks that compliment his now-shaved head, Stipe didn't always rock such a simple hairstyle. In fact, he had quite the afro. Check out his 1977 yearbook photo:

michael stipe afro

And here's Stipe now:

michael stipe


But Stipe isn't the only celebrity with an afro hiding in his past. Our friends at Snakkle have a whole gallery of well-coiffed celebrities, available for your perusal here. More "before they were famous" goodies are available in the gallery below.

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  • Brad Pitt, Pringles

  • Matt LeBlanc, Heinz Ketchup

  • Elijah Wood, Pizza Hut

  • Meg Ryan, AIM Toothpaste

  • Leonardo DiCaprio, Bubble Yum

  • Keanu Reeves, Corn Flakes

  • Morgan Freeman, Listerine

  • Sarah Michelle Gellar, Burger King

  • Dakota Fanning, Tide

  • Elle Fanning, Target

  • Demi Moore, Diet Coke

  • Ashley Tisdale, T-Mobile

  • Ben Affleck, Burger King

  • Evangeline Lilly, Live Links

  • Abigail Breslin, Toys "R" Us

  • Paul Rudd, Super Nintendo

  • Steve Carell, Brown's Chicken

  • Seth Green, Nerf

  • Bruce Willis, Seagrams Wine Coolers

  • Channing Tatum, Mountain Dew

  • Jack Black, Pitfall Video Game

  • John Travolta, Safeguard Bath Soap

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