Radiohead has taken a seven-year break from live performances, and singer Thom Yorke recently opened up about why. In a candid interview, he described how events in 2018 made the group stop – he called it a time when “the wheels came off a bit.” This hiatus has been long, but it has also been a time of reflection and healing for the band.
In September, Radiohead announced their return, scheduling shows in cities like Madrid, London, and Berlin from November to December. Swift ticket sales indicate a strong fan interest, yet it marks their first live performance since their “A Moon Shaped Pool” tour ended in 2018.
Yorke disclosed that a significant factor in their break was personal grief. He lost his first wife, Dr. Rachel Owen, in 2016, and realized he hadn’t properly processed that loss. “I needed to stop anyway,” he admitted, noting that music became painful during his grief.
Guitarist Ed O’Brien shared similar feelings about the time away. He admitted that he had been in a dark place, struggling with depression. “I hit the bottom in 2021,” he said, but coming back to music helped him reconnect with his bandmates—a bond he cherished since he was 17.
Recent statistics show that mental health issues, especially among creatives, are alarming. A survey by the World Health Organization indicated that depression rates have surged globally, emphasizing the importance of taking time for mental well-being.
The band also addressed some controversies surrounding their involvement in the Israel-Palestine conflict. In the past, they’ve faced backlash for their performances in Israel. Yorke expressed strong feelings about this, stating he would not perform there again. Meanwhile, guitarist Jonny Greenwood offered a different perspective, suggesting that criticism has a way of dividing audiences and creating unnecessary tension.
While their return to the stage is exciting for fans, it brings forward a complex mix of personal and social issues that the band has navigated during their time away. As they prepare to reconnect with their audience, it’s clear that their journey has been as much about healing as about music.
For more insights on mental health in the music industry, you can explore the latest findings from Mental Health America.
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