Did Radiohead break up? This question has been swirling around the internet, fueling debates among fans and music critics alike. The rumors gained momentum after Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood, two core members of the band, launched their side project, The Smile, in 2021.
With the imminent arrival of The Smile’s new project, “Wall Of Eyes,” these speculations have only intensified. But is there any truth to these rumors, or are they just another case of internet hearsay?
Did Radiohead Break Up? Unpacking the Speculations
The rumors of the English breaking up have been on the minds of many since the formation of “The Smile.” When Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood announced their collaboration on this new project, it naturally led to concerns among Radiohead’s fanbase. After all, side projects often signal a shift in focus, leading fans to wonder if the band that has shaped alternative rock for decades was no more.
Times / The collaboration of Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood for their new project “The Smile” is making fans wonder if the band is breaking up.
However, it is essential to consider that side projects are not uncommon for band members, especially for artists as prolific as those in Radiohead. The band has always been known for pushing boundaries and exploring new creative avenues. Yorke, for instance, has released solo albums in the past.
Yet, this has not meant the end of Radiohead. Similarly, Greenwood has ventured into composing film scores. This also proves that exploring side projects is part of their creative process, not necessarily a sign of an impending breakup.
The Smile Project and the Impact on Radiohead
When The Smile was first introduced, it was an exciting moment for music enthusiasts. The project brought together Yorke and Greenwood with drummer Tom Skinner of Sons of Kemet. The trio released their debut album, “A Light for Attracting Attention,” to critical acclaim, further fueling the rumors that Radiohead had quietly disbanded.
Fans began to speculate whether the band members’ new musical ventures meant the end of Radiohead as they knew it. But the band’s history suggests otherwise. Radiohead has always been a group of individuals who embrace change, innovation, and exploration in their music. The Smile might be a significant project. But it is unlikely to overshadow or replace what Radiohead represents.
Philip Selway Addresses the Rumors
In January 2023, Radiohead drummer Philip Selway addressed the ongoing breakup rumors in an interview with Spin. When asked, “Did Radiohead break up,” Selway’s response was both reassuring and humorous. He mentioned that, as far as he knew, Radiohead was still very much a band. “If anybody knows something different, I’d be interested in knowing,” the drummer joked.
YT / Radiohead drummer Philip Selway smashes the rumors and says they are false and baseless.
Selway went on to explain that, for him, whatever the band members do individually, it all falls under the umbrella of Radiohead. This statement underlines the strong bond that exists between the members, regardless of their individual pursuits.
Did Radiohead Break Up?
Despite the rumors, there is little evidence to support the idea that Radiohead has broken up. The band last toured together in 2018, following the release of their ninth studio album, “A Moon Shaped Pool,” in 2016. Although it has been a while since the band has released new music or toured, this is not unusual for Radiohead.
While the members of Radiohead are currently involved in various projects, including The Smile, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the band. Historically, Radiohead has gone through periods of relative inactivity, only to return with groundbreaking music that pushes the boundaries of what rock can be.
