Radiohead

Abingdon School, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England-23April2011

Radiohead Curfew advert

Thom Yorke 1998

Jonny Greenwood Synth (Amsterdam)

Radiohead Coachella 2004 cropped

Radiohead France 2008

Radiohead is an English rock band formed in Abingdon, Oxfordshire in 1985. The band consists of Thom Yorke (lead vocals, guitar, piano), brothers Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar, keyboards, other instruments) and Colin Greenwood (bass), Ed O'Brien (guitar, backing vocals), and Philip Selway (drums, percussion). Known for their experimental approach to music, Radiohead incorporates elements from a variety of genres including alternative rock, electronic, and art rock, making them one of the most critically acclaimed and influential bands of the modern era.

History

Formation and Early Years

Radiohead formed at Abingdon School, with the original band name 'On a Friday' reflecting their usual rehearsal day. They changed their name to Radiohead, inspired by the Talking Heads song "Radio Head", upon signing to EMI in 1991.

Breakthrough and Mainstream Success

Radiohead's debut album, Pablo Honey (1993), gained attention with the hit single "Creep". Their follow-up, The Bends (1995), saw the band moving towards more expansive soundscapes and greater depth in songwriting. However, it was their third album, OK Computer (1997), that catapulted them to international fame. With its complex production and themes of modern alienation, OK Computer is often hailed as one of the greatest albums of the 1990s.

Experimental Era

Following OK Computer, Radiohead took a more experimental direction. Kid A (2000) and Amnesiac (2001), recorded during the same sessions, incorporated electronic music, jazz, and classical music influences. These albums divided critics and fans but were commercially successful and later received widespread acclaim.

Later Work

Radiohead continued to explore various musical directions on subsequent albums, including Hail to the Thief (2003), a blend of rock and electronic, In Rainbows (2007), which was released as a pay-what-you-want download, and A Moon Shaped Pool (2016), featuring orchestral arrangements. Each album has been distinct, showcasing the band's willingness to experiment and evolve.

Musical Style and Influences

Radiohead's music defies easy categorization, drawing on a wide range of influences, including the work of The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and R.E.M., as well as electronic music acts like Aphex Twin. Their sound is characterized by its emotional depth, complex lyrics, and the ability to blend traditional rock instruments with electronic elements.

Impact and Legacy

Radiohead has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and has won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards. They are known for their innovative approach to the music business, such as their pay-what-you-want release of In Rainbows. Their influence can be seen in a wide range of musical genres, and they are frequently cited by other musicians as an inspiration.

Band Members

• Thom Yorke – lead vocals, guitar, piano
• Jonny Greenwood – lead guitar, keyboards, other instruments
• Colin Greenwood – bass
• Ed O'Brien – guitar, backing vocals
• Philip Selway – drums, percussion

Discography

• Pablo Honey (1993)
• The Bends (1995)
• OK Computer (1997)
• Kid A (2000)
• Amnesiac (2001)
• Hail to the Thief (2003)
• In Rainbows (2007)
• The King of Limbs (2011)
• A Moon Shaped Pool (2016)