UPDATE: Radiohead’s iconic track “Let Down” has surged to the Billboard Hot 100, marking the band’s first appearance on the chart in nearly 20 years. This unexpected rise has taken frontman Thom Yorke by surprise, especially given his initial resistance to including the song on their seminal album OK Computer.
Earlier this year, “Let Down” went viral, captivating a new generation of listeners and pushing the band back into the spotlight. In a revealing interview with The Sunday Times, Yorke stated, “I find that especially bizarre, because I fought tooth and nail for it not to be on the record.” He recounted how fellow band member Ed O’Brien insisted on its inclusion, claiming, “If it’s not, I’m leaving.” O’Brien described the song as the “emotional heart” of the album, underscoring its significance to the band’s legacy.
The reaction from today’s youth has been enlightening for Yorke. He noted, “I told my kids, who are 18 and 21, and they said, ‘What do you expect? Teenagers are depressed. It’s depressing music!’” This candid exchange highlights the song’s resonance with contemporary audiences grappling with their own challenges.
In the same interview, Yorke addressed the band’s contentious relationship with Israel, particularly in light of their 2017 performance in Tel Aviv. When asked if they would perform in Israel again, he firmly stated, “Absolutely not. I wouldn’t want to be 5,000 miles anywhere near the Netanyahu regime.” While Yorke remains steadfast in his stance, O’Brien offered a contrasting viewpoint, suggesting that the government may leverage boycotts to strengthen its narrative.
As Radiohead prepares for their upcoming tour in November 2025, fans are eager to see how this recent success will influence their setlist. The tour includes multiple dates in major cities like Madrid, Bologna, and London, showcasing the band’s enduring appeal.
Upcoming Radiohead Tour Dates:
- November 4-8, 2025 – Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
- November 14-18, 2025 – Bologna, Italy @ Unipol Arena
- November 21-25, 2025 – London, England @ The O2
- December 1-5, 2025 – Copenhagen, Denmark @ Royal Arena
- December 8-12, 2025 – Berlin, Germany @ Uber Arena
As the band navigates this renewed wave of popularity, fans are left wondering what other surprises lie ahead. Radiohead’s journey from resistance to acceptance of “Let Down” exemplifies the unpredictable nature of musical legacies.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on Radiohead and their evolving relationship with fans and the music industry.
