Radiohead
Oxford’s experimental rock
Formation and early years
Radiohead was formed in Abingdon, near Oxford, in 1985 around Thom Yorke (vocals, guitar), Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar), Ed O’Brien (guitar), Colin Greenwood (bass), and Phil Selway (drums). The band members had known each other since school.
From Creep to OK Computer
The single “Creep” (1992) brought them unexpected worldwide success. The Bends (1995) established them as one of the best British rock bands. OK Computer (1997) is an art rock masterpiece dealing with technological alienation, voted the best album of the 1990s by many critics.
Electronic revolution
Kid A (2000) and Amnesiac (2001) incorporated electronic music, jazz, and experimental music, confusing some fans while opening new creative horizons. In Rainbows (2007) was released with a “pay what you want” model, revolutionizing music distribution.
Radiohead was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.
The release of In Rainbows as a “pay what you want” album was a groundbreaking move that shook the music industry. Fans paid an average of £2.26, but the album generated more revenue than their previous releases. Radiohead proved that an alternative business model could work for major artists.
Iconic guitars
Jonny Greenwood uses Fender Telecaster Plus, Fender Starcaster, and a 1980s Fender “The Strat”. Ed O’Brien plays Fender Stratocaster and Rickenbacker 360 guitars.
See the Fender Precision Bass Ex Colin Greenwood – Radiohead
