Radiohead

Guide Note

British alternative rock band Radiohead has produced seven studio albums and sold over 23 million records since releasing their debut album, Pablo Honey in 1993.

Fast Facts

1. Years Active: 1991—Present
2. Origin: Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England
3. Discography
4. Name is from a Talking Heads song
5. Launched Waste Central, a social media site for fans in April, 2008

Creep

Radiohead's first single, "Creep" hit the airwaves in 1992 and was well received, although many critics billed the band as simply another Brit-pop one hit wonder. The release of their second album, The Bends, in 1995 continued in the same guitar-heavy style, characterized by frontman Thom Yorke's unmistakable falsetto and introspective lyrics.

OK Computer

1997 saw the release of OK Computer which, although still heavy on guitars, incorporated a wider range of influences and electronic experimentation. Acclaimed by fans and critics alike, OK Computer won the 1997 Grammy for Best Alternative Album.

Kids A + B

Radiohead's next two albums, Kid A (2000) and Amnesiac (2001) saw the band further experimenting with electronic music and minimalist lyrics. Kid A won the band their second Grammy for Best Alternative Album and remains their greatest commercial success to date.

Hail to the Rainbow

Hail to the Thief (2003) blended the guitar-rock style of Pablo Honey and The Bends with the electronic experimentation of their later albums. After a hiatus, Radiohead released In Rainbows in 2007 as a digital download for which customers could choose their own price.

Since Then

In early 2008, Radiohead announced the June, 2008 release of a greatest hits album and DVD, which would feature nine never before seen music videos. The corresponding tour was scheduled to kick off on May 5, 2008 in West Palm Beach, Florida.

The Band

1. Thom Yorke: Lead vocals & guitar
2. Ed O'Brien: Guitar, backup vocals
3. Johnny Greenwood: Lead guitar, various other instruments
4. Colin Greenwood: Bass
5. Phil Selway: Drums