UPDATE: Radiohead’s classic track, “Let Down,” has surged back into the spotlight, debuting on the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time in nearly two decades. This unexpected resurgence comes after the song went viral earlier this year, marking a significant moment for the band.
The band’s frontman, Thom Yorke, expressed his surprise at the song’s newfound popularity, revealing in a recent interview with The Sunday Times that he initially fought hard to keep “Let Down” off their iconic 1997 album, OK Computer. He stated, “I find that especially bizarre, because I fought tooth and nail for it not to be on the record, but Ed [O’Brien] was like, ‘If it’s not, I’m leaving.’” O’Brien called the track the “emotional heart” of the album, emphasizing its significance despite Yorke’s reservations.
Yorke’s comments highlight the song’s deep emotional connection, resonating with listeners today, particularly younger generations. O’Brien further 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 candor reveals the human impact of the song, as it captures the struggles of youth.
In a timely addition to the interview, the topic of performing in Israel arose amidst current geopolitical tensions. Yorke unequivocally stated, “Absolutely not. I wouldn’t want to be 5,000 miles anywhere near the Netanyahu regime.” Meanwhile, guitarist Jonny Greenwood shared a differing perspective, arguing that boycotts could potentially backfire, saying, “I would also politely disagree with Thom. I would argue that the government is more likely to use a boycott and say, ‘Everyone hates us — we should do exactly what we want,’ which is far more dangerous.”
As Radiohead prepares for their upcoming 2025 tour, fans can look forward to multiple performances across Europe. Confirmed dates include:
- November 4, 2025 — Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
- November 21, 2025 — London, England @ The O2
- December 1, 2025 — Copenhagen, Denmark @ Royal Arena
- December 8, 2025 — Berlin, Germany @ Uber Arena
With each show, fans are eager to see how the band integrates the themes of “Let Down” into their live performances, especially with its renewed relevance. The viral success of the song underscores the enduring legacy of Radiohead and their ability to connect with listeners across generations.
As this story develops, more details about the band’s tour and public statements are expected. Stay tuned for updates on Radiohead and their impact on today’s music scene.
