UPDATE: Radiohead’s iconic track “Let Down” has unexpectedly surged onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking a historic moment for the band. This development comes as the song, originally featured on their 1997 album OK Computer, gains newfound popularity, becoming the band’s fourth entry on the chart and their first in nearly two decades.
The news of “Let Down” entering the Billboard ranks has caught frontman Thom Yorke off guard. In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Times, he expressed his astonishment, revealing that he initially fought “tooth and nail” to exclude the track from the album. Yorke recounted that bandmate Ed O’Brien was adamant about its inclusion, stating, “If it’s not, I’m leaving.”
O’Brien described “Let Down” as the “emotional heart” of OK Computer, which has resonated deeply with fans, especially in today’s climate. He humorously noted his children’s reaction to the song’s resurgence, saying they remarked, “What do you expect? Teenagers are depressed. It’s depressing music!” This highlights the ongoing emotional connection many listeners feel with the track.
In light of the song’s viral success, Radiohead’s upcoming tour has also gained attention. The band is set to perform across Europe in late 2025, with multiple dates in cities like Madrid and London. The full schedule includes:
- 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 gears up for their tour, Yorke was also asked about the possibility of performing in Israel again, especially given the current political climate. He firmly stated, “Absolutely not. I wouldn’t want to be 5,000 miles anywhere near the Netanyahu regime.” Meanwhile, Greenwood expressed a different perspective, emphasizing the complexities of boycotts and their implications.
“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,” Greenwood noted.
Radiohead’s revival through “Let Down” serves as a poignant reminder of the band’s enduring legacy and their ability to connect with audiences across generations. As fans eagerly await their performances, this unexpected chart success emphasizes the timeless relevance of their music.
Stay tuned for more updates on Radiohead’s tour and the ongoing impact of “Let Down” on the music landscape.
