Radiohead, formed in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England, in 1985, are one of the most critically acclaimed and influential alternative rock bands of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The members, Thom Yorke (vocals, guitar, piano, keyboards), Jonny Greenwood (guitar, keyboards), Colin Greenwood (bass), Ed O'Brien (guitar, backing vocals), and Philip Selway (drums, percussion), met at an all-boys school. Initially forming under the name On a Friday, they gained local attention before signing with Parlophone in 1991 and changing their name to Radiohead. Their debut single, "Creep" (1992), initially flopped but became a worldwide hit after being re-released in 1993. This early success, however, pigeonholed them as a one-hit wonder, a label they actively fought against. Their debut album, *Pablo Honey* (1993), while commercially successful, did not reflect the band's artistic ambitions.
Radiohead's breakthrough came with *The Bends* (1995), a more complex and ambitious album that showcased their evolving sound. This album, along with extensive touring, cemented their reputation as a serious and innovative band. Their next album, *OK Computer* (1997), is widely considered a masterpiece and a landmark in alternative rock. Its themes of technology, transportation, death, globalization, and anti-capitalism resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. *OK Computer* propelled Radiohead to international stardom and solidified their position as one of the most important bands of their generation.
Following *OK Computer*, Radiohead continued to experiment and push boundaries. *Kid A* (2000) saw them incorporating electronic music, krautrock, and jazz influences, dividing critics and fans but ultimately being recognized as another significant work. *Amnesiac* (2001), recorded during the same sessions as *Kid A*, further explored these experimental directions. Subsequent albums, including *Hail to the Thief* (2003), *In Rainbows* (2007), *The King of Limbs* (2011), and *A Moon Shaped Pool* (2016), have continued to showcase their evolving sound and willingness to take risks. *In Rainbows* was notable for its "pay-what-you-want" online release, a groundbreaking move that challenged traditional music distribution models.
Radiohead's musical style is characterized by Thom Yorke's distinctive vocals, Jonny Greenwood's innovative guitar work, and their willingness to experiment with different genres and textures. They have been praised for their complex and atmospheric soundscapes, their intelligent and often politically charged lyrics, and their willingness to challenge conventions. Radiohead's influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable, and they continue to be a major force in contemporary music.