Radiohead’s ‘Let Down’ Surges on Billboard; Yorke’s Surprising Reaction

UPDATE: Radiohead’s iconic track “Let Down” has surged to viral fame, making its debut on the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time since its release in 1997. This marks the band’s fourth song to enter the chart and their first in nearly two decades, leaving frontman Thom Yorke shocked.

The unexpected popularity of “Let Down” has taken many by surprise, especially given Yorke’s strong opposition to including the song on their landmark album, OK Computer. In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, he expressed disbelief, stating, “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, who championed the track as the “emotional heart” of the album, reacted to the news with astonishment, sharing that he informed his children, aged 18 and 21, about the song’s resurgence. Their response? “What do you expect? Teenagers are depressed. It’s depressing music!”

Yorke also addressed sensitive topics during the interview, particularly regarding their past performance in Tel Aviv. When asked if they’d consider returning to Israel, he firmly stated, “Absolutely not. I wouldn’t want to be 5,000 miles anywhere near the Netanyahu regime.” Meanwhile, fellow band member Jonny Greenwood expressed a different viewpoint, suggesting that boycotting could ultimately backfire.

“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 stated.

As Radiohead rides the wave of renewed interest in their music, fans can look forward to their upcoming 2025 tour, set to kick off in Madrid, Spain, on November 4. The tour includes multiple dates across Europe, including stops in London and Copenhagen.

Here are the confirmed dates:

• 11/04 — Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
• 11/05 — Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
• 11/07 — Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
• 11/08 — Madrid, Spain @ Movistar Arena
• 11/21 — London, England @ The O2
• 11/22 — London, England @ The O2
• 12/01 — Copenhagen, Denmark @ Royal Arena
• 12/02 — Copenhagen, Denmark @ Royal Arena
• 12/08 — Berlin, Germany @ Uber Arena
• 12/09 — Berlin, Germany @ Uber Arena

This latest development not only highlights Radiohead’s enduring impact on music but also showcases the emotional connection their songs have with fans across generations. With “Let Down” now trending, the band’s legacy continues to evolve, drawing in both old and new listeners alike.

Stay tuned for more updates as Radiohead prepares for their forthcoming tour and navigates the complexities of their ongoing public discussions.