Radiohead is an English rock band that formed in Oxfordshire in 1985. The band has become one of the most influential and critically acclaimed bands of the past few decades, known for their experimental sound, thought-provoking lyrics, and ability to push the boundaries of music. With nine studio albums, Radiohead has amassed a vast and impressive discography that spans over three decades.
Throughout their career, Radiohead has produced numerous hits and fan-favorites, and their music has been widely celebrated and analyzed by critics and fans alike. From their early days as a grunge-inspired band to their later, more electronic-infused albums, Radiohead has consistently evolved and experimented with their sound, creating a unique and diverse body of work that has stood the test of time.
In this article, we will explore the best songs of Radiohead, looking at the band’s most iconic tracks, as well as some lesser-known gems that deserve more attention. From the haunting ballads of “Street Spirit” and “No Surprises” to the anthemic rock of “Paranoid Android” and “Karma Police,” we will delve into the diverse and groundbreaking music that has made Radiohead one of the most innovative and enduring bands of our time.
1. Paranoid Android (1997)
“Paranoid Android” is a song by the English alternative rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 as the lead single from their third studio album, “OK Computer.” Clocking in at just over six minutes, the song is a masterpiece of musical complexity and experimentation, showcasing the band’s signature blend of rock, electronic, and orchestral elements.
The song features several distinct sections, including a hauntingly beautiful acoustic guitar intro, a driving rock section with thundering drums and distorted guitars, a slower, more contemplative bridge, and a chaotic, dissonant outro. Lyrically, the song deals with themes of alienation, anxiety, and disillusionment, painting a bleak picture of a society that has lost its way.
“Paranoid Android” was a critical and commercial success, receiving widespread acclaim for its innovative and boundary-pushing sound. It has since become one of Radiohead’s most iconic and beloved songs, frequently cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. With its intricate arrangements, powerful vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics, “Paranoid Android” stands as a true masterpiece of modern music.
2. How to Disappear Completely (2000)
“How to Disappear Completely” is a haunting and beautiful song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2000 as part of their fourth studio album, “Kid A.” The song is a departure from the band’s earlier guitar-driven sound, instead featuring atmospheric keyboards, orchestral strings, and lead singer Thom Yorke’s delicate vocals.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on isolation and escape, with Yorke singing about the desire to “float downstream” and disappear completely. The lyrics are evocative and poetic, capturing a sense of existential longing and despair.
Musically, the song is a tour de force of atmospheric soundscapes and emotional intensity, building slowly and steadily towards a cathartic climax. The orchestral strings provide a rich and layered backdrop for Yorke’s vocals, creating a sense of space and depth that is both ethereal and otherworldly.
“How to Disappear Completely” is widely regarded as one of Radiohead’s most powerful and emotionally resonant songs, and has been praised for its innovative use of electronic and orchestral elements. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
3. Reckoner (2007)
“Reckoner” is a captivating and mesmerizing song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2007 as part of their seventh studio album, “In Rainbows.” The song is a stunning example of the band’s ability to craft complex and emotionally resonant music, blending intricate rhythms, lush harmonies, and lead singer Thom Yorke’s soaring vocals.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on love and relationships, with Yorke singing about the “reckoning” that comes when a relationship ends. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, exploring the depths of human emotion and the pain of loss and separation.
Musically, “Reckoner” is a masterclass in songcraft, with each element of the song carefully crafted and layered to create a powerful and immersive listening experience. The song features a driving rhythm section, intricate guitar work, and rich orchestral textures, all held together by Yorke’s emotive vocals.
“Reckoner” has been widely praised by critics and fans alike, and has become one of Radiohead’s most beloved and iconic songs. Its intricate arrangements, emotional depth, and sheer beauty make it a standout track on an album full of masterpieces, and a testament to the band’s enduring creative vision.
4. Pyramid Song (2001)
“Pyramid Song” is a hauntingly beautiful and enigmatic song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2001 as part of their fifth studio album, “Amnesiac.” The song is built around a complex piano melody, which is accompanied by a delicate drum pattern, atmospheric synths, and lead singer Thom Yorke’s mournful vocals.
Lyrically, the song is shrouded in mystery, with Yorke singing about a dreamlike journey through a “black-eyed angel” and “the nothing I feel.” The lyrics are cryptic and surreal, capturing a sense of unease and otherworldliness.
Musically, “Pyramid Song” is a stunning example of Radiohead’s ability to blend disparate elements into a cohesive and emotionally powerful whole. The song’s intricate rhythms and harmonies create a sense of tension and release, while the atmospheric synths and Yorke’s vocals add a sense of otherworldly beauty and wonder.
“Pyramid Song” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s greatest achievements, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its haunting melody and enigmatic lyrics have captured the imagination of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
5. Karma Police (1997)
“Karma Police” is an iconic and timeless song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 as part of their third studio album, “OK Computer.” The song is built around a simple piano riff, which is accompanied by a driving rhythm section, atmospheric guitars, and lead singer Thom Yorke’s powerful vocals.
Lyrically, the song is a biting satire of modern society, with Yorke singing about the “Karma Police” who will “arrest this man” for his transgressions. The lyrics are darkly humorous and ironic, capturing a sense of alienation and disillusionment with the world around us.
Musically, “Karma Police” is a masterclass in songcraft, with each element of the song carefully crafted and arranged to create a powerful and emotionally resonant listening experience. The song’s chorus is a sing-along anthem, with Yorke’s soaring vocals and the catchy melody inviting listeners to join in and sing along.
“Karma Police” has become one of Radiohead’s most iconic and beloved songs, frequently cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. Its catchy melody, powerful lyrics, and evocative atmosphere have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
6. Idioteque (2000)
“Idioteque” is a groundbreaking and electrifying song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2000 as part of their fourth studio album, “Kid A.” The song is a radical departure from the band’s earlier guitar-driven sound, featuring glitchy electronic beats, atmospheric synths, and lead singer Thom Yorke’s processed vocals.
Lyrically, the song is a reflection on the state of the world in the early 21st century, with Yorke singing about “ice age coming” and “women and children first.” The lyrics are dystopian and apocalyptic, capturing a sense of fear and uncertainty in the face of a rapidly changing world.
Musically, “Idioteque” is a groundbreaking work of electronic music, with its use of glitchy beats, unconventional rhythms, and atmospheric textures pushing the boundaries of what was possible in popular music at the time. The song’s climax features a relentless drumbeat and Yorke’s repeated refrain of “this is really happening,” creating a sense of urgency and intensity that is both exhilarating and terrifying.
“Idioteque” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s greatest achievements, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its groundbreaking use of electronic music, powerful lyrics, and intense atmosphere have captured the imaginations of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
7. Nude (2007)
“Nude” is a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally resonant song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2007 as part of their seventh studio album, “In Rainbows.” The song is built around a simple yet powerful melody, with lead singer Thom Yorke’s soaring vocals taking center stage.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on vulnerability and emotional intimacy, with Yorke singing about “don’t get any big ideas, they’re not going to happen.” The lyrics are introspective and vulnerable, capturing a sense of longing and desire for connection in a world that can feel isolating and cold.
Musically, “Nude” is a masterclass in understated beauty, with each element of the song carefully crafted and arranged to create a powerful and emotionally resonant listening experience. The song’s sparse instrumentation and delicate harmonies create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, inviting listeners to connect with the emotions at the heart of the song.
“Nude” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and emotionally powerful songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its understated beauty, powerful lyrics, and emotionally resonant atmosphere have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
8. The National Anthem (2000)
“The National Anthem” is a powerful and intense song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2000 as part of their fourth studio album, “Kid A.” The song is built around a driving bassline and a barrage of dissonant horns and electronic noise, creating a sense of chaos and disorientation.
Lyrically, the song is a biting commentary on modern politics and nationalism, with lead singer Thom Yorke singing about “everyone is so near” and “everyone is so near and full of cheer.” The lyrics are ironic and sarcastic, capturing a sense of disillusionment and alienation in the face of political and social upheaval.
Musically, “The National Anthem” is a groundbreaking work of experimental rock, with its use of dissonant horns and electronic noise pushing the boundaries of what was possible in popular music at the time. The song’s climax features a chaotic explosion of sound, with Yorke’s repeated refrain of “everyone around here” creating a sense of tension and release.
“The National Anthem” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most powerful and innovative songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its groundbreaking use of experimental rock, powerful lyrics, and intense atmosphere have captured the imaginations of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
9. Exit Music (For a Film) (1997)
“Exit Music (For a Film)” is a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally charged song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 as part of their third studio album, “OK Computer.” The song is built around a simple yet powerful acoustic guitar melody, with lead singer Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals soaring over the top.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on love and mortality, with Yorke singing about “we hope that you choke” and “we hope that you choke.” The lyrics are emotionally charged and evocative, capturing a sense of desperation and despair in the face of life’s most profound questions.
Musically, “Exit Music (For a Film)” is a masterclass in understated beauty, with each element of the song carefully crafted and arranged to create a powerful and emotionally resonant listening experience. The song’s spare instrumentation and delicate harmonies create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, inviting listeners to connect with the emotions at the heart of the song.
“Exit Music (For a Film)” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and emotionally powerful songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its understated beauty, powerful lyrics, and emotionally resonant atmosphere have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
10. My Iron Lung (1994)
“My Iron Lung” is a dynamic and powerful song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1994 as part of their second studio album, “The Bends.” The song is built around a driving guitar riff and a powerful rhythm section, creating a sense of energy and urgency.
Lyrically, the song is a commentary on the music industry and the pressures of fame, with lead singer Thom Yorke singing about “you do it to yourself, you do” and “this is our new song, just like the last one.” The lyrics are biting and sarcastic, capturing a sense of frustration and disillusionment in the face of the music industry’s demands.
Musically, “My Iron Lung” is a showcase for the band’s talents, with its powerful guitar riff and thundering rhythm section creating a sense of intensity and excitement. The song’s climax features a soaring guitar solo and a powerful vocal performance from Yorke, creating a sense of release and catharsis.
“My Iron Lung” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most powerful and dynamic songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its powerful guitar riff, biting lyrics, and explosive energy have captured the imaginations of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern rock music.
11. Sail to the Moon (2003)
“Sail to the Moon” is a dreamy and ethereal song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2003 as part of their sixth studio album, “Hail to the Thief.” The song is built around a delicate piano melody and a subdued rhythm section, creating a sense of tranquility and introspection.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on the power of music and the transcendent experiences it can create, with lead singer Thom Yorke singing about “I want to sail to the moon, sail to the moon” and “I love you more than words can say.” The lyrics are poetic and evocative, capturing a sense of longing and yearning for something beyond the mundane.
Musically, “Sail to the Moon” is a showcase for the band’s more delicate side, with its understated instrumentation and haunting melodies creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song’s climax features a soaring vocal performance from Yorke and a lush orchestral arrangement, creating a sense of grandeur and transcendence.
“Sail to the Moon” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and emotionally resonant songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its delicate piano melody, evocative lyrics, and transcendent atmosphere have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true masterpiece of modern music.
12. Street Spirit (Fade Out) (1995)
“Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is a haunting and melancholic song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1995 as part of their second studio album, “The Bends.” The song is built around a somber guitar riff and a subdued rhythm section, creating a sense of sadness and resignation.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on mortality and the fleeting nature of life, with lead singer Thom Yorke singing about “immerse your soul in love” and “cracked eggs, dead birds, scream as they fight for life.” The lyrics are poetic and evocative, capturing a sense of sadness and loss in the face of life’s transience.
Musically, “Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is a showcase for the band’s ability to create emotionally powerful music, with its somber guitar riff and delicate harmonies creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song’s climax features a haunting vocal performance from Yorke and a powerful guitar solo, creating a sense of catharsis and release.
“Street Spirit (Fade Out)” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and emotionally resonant songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its somber guitar riff, evocative lyrics, and emotionally charged atmosphere have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern music.
13. Knives Out (2001)
“Knives Out” is a guitar-driven and catchy song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2001 as part of their fifth studio album, “Amnesiac.” The song features a fast-paced and upbeat tempo, with Johnny Greenwood’s guitar riffs driving the song forward.
The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, with Thom Yorke singing about “the darkest of clouds” and “the ones you light your fires to keep away.” The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are often seen as a commentary on the dangers of conformity and groupthink.
Musically, “Knives Out” is a showcase for Radiohead’s ability to combine catchy melodies with complex instrumentation. The guitar riffs and drum beats create a sense of urgency and energy, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax with the addition of orchestration.
“Knives Out” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most accessible and enjoyable songs, and has become a fan favorite for its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus. Its catchy melody and universal themes of conformity and resistance have resonated with listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern music.
14. Polyethylene (Pt 1 & 2) (1997)
“Polyethylene (Parts 1 & 2)” is a two-part song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 as part of their third studio album, “OK Computer.” The song is a departure from the band’s typical sound, featuring a more experimental and electronic approach.
Part 1 of the song is built around a driving drumbeat and a distorted guitar riff, creating a sense of energy and urgency. Lyrically, the song is a commentary on the emptiness and isolation of modern life, with lead singer Thom Yorke singing about “this machine will not communicate, these thoughts and the strain I am under.”
Part 2 of the song is a more subdued and introspective piece, featuring a haunting electronic melody and a sparse rhythm section. The lyrics continue to explore the theme of isolation and disconnection, with Yorke singing about “lonely, lonely, lonely, push me on a train.” The song’s climax features a powerful vocal performance from Yorke and a dissonant electronic arrangement, creating a sense of unease and tension.
“Polyethylene (Parts 1 & 2)” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most experimental and ambitious songs, and has become a fan favorite for its unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Its blend of electronic and rock elements, along with its powerful commentary on modern life, have cemented its status as a true classic of modern music.
15. Videotape (2007)
“Videotape” is a haunting and introspective song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2007 as part of their seventh studio album, “In Rainbows.” The song features a minimalist piano arrangement, with Thom Yorke’s soft and melancholic vocals taking center stage.
The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, with Yorke singing about “a videotape of you dancing” and “no matter what happens now, you shouldn’t be afraid.” The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are often seen as a meditation on the nature of memory and the passing of time.
Musically, “Videotape” is a showcase for Radiohead’s ability to create emotionally powerful music with sparse instrumentation. The piano melody and Yorke’s vocal delivery create a sense of vulnerability and introspection, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax with the addition of orchestration.
“Videotape” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most haunting and emotionally resonant songs, and has become a fan favorite for its powerful simplicity and poetic lyrics. Its exploration of memory and the passing of time, combined with its universal themes of love and loss, have cemented its status as a true classic of modern music.
16. Airbag (1997)
“Airbag” is an explosive and dynamic song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 as part of their third studio album, “OK Computer.” The song is built around a driving drumbeat and a distorted guitar riff, creating a sense of energy and urgency.
Lyrically, the song is a meditation on the fragility of human life and the way in which technology has shaped modern society. Lead singer Thom Yorke sings about “in a fast German car, I’m amazed that I survived, an airbag saved my life” and “in an interstellar burst, I’m back to save the universe.” The lyrics are both introspective and provocative, exploring the themes of mortality, isolation, and technological progress.
Musically, “Airbag” is a showcase for the band’s ability to create powerful and dynamic music, with its driving rhythm section and distorted guitar riffs creating a sense of tension and release. The song’s climax features a soaring vocal performance from Yorke and a chaotic guitar solo, creating a sense of catharsis and excitement.
“Airbag” has been widely praised as one of Radiohead’s most explosive and exhilarating songs, and has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its driving rhythm, thought-provoking lyrics, and explosive energy have captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern music.
17. True Love Waits (2016)
“True Love Waits” is a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally charged song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2016 as part of their ninth studio album, “A Moon Shaped Pool.” The song was first performed live in 1995, but was not officially released until over two decades later.
The song features a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar and Thom Yorke’s vulnerable and evocative vocals. The lyrics speak of love and devotion, with Yorke singing about “I’m not living, I’m just killing time” and “I’m not the one you want, the one you need.” The song is both intimate and universal, exploring the complex and often painful nature of human relationships.
Musically, “True Love Waits” is a showcase for Radiohead’s ability to create raw and emotive music with minimal instrumentation. The delicate acoustic guitar and Yorke’s soulful vocals create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax.
“True Love Waits” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most haunting and beautiful songs, and has become a fan favorite for its raw emotional power and universal themes. Its stark simplicity and poignant lyrics have resonated with listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern music.
18. Weird Fishes/Arpeggi (2007)
“Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” is a mesmerizing and atmospheric song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2007 as part of their seventh studio album, “In Rainbows.” The song features a complex and intricate arrangement of guitar arpeggios, creating a sense of otherworldly beauty and ethereal atmosphere.
The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, with Thom Yorke singing about “I hit the bottom and escape” and “turn me on to phantoms, I follow to the edge.” The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are often seen as a meditation on the struggle for human connection and the search for meaning in a chaotic and confusing world.
Musically, “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” is a showcase for Radiohead’s ability to create complex and beautiful music that defies genre boundaries. The song’s intricate guitar parts and soaring vocal melodies create a sense of hypnotic beauty and emotional depth, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax.
“Weird Fishes/Arpeggi” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and mesmerizing songs, and has become a fan favorite for its ethereal atmosphere and poetic lyrics. Its complex and intricate arrangement, combined with its emotional depth and universal themes, have cemented its status as a true classic of modern music.
19. Motion Picture Soundtrack (2000)
“Motion Picture Soundtrack” is a hauntingly beautiful and melancholic song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 2000 as part of their fourth studio album, “Kid A.” The song features a simple and delicate arrangement of piano and Thom Yorke’s ethereal vocals, creating a sense of dreamy beauty and emotional depth.
The lyrics are poignant and evocative, with Yorke singing about “red wine and sleeping pills, help me get back to your arms” and “I will see you in the next life.” The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are often seen as a meditation on the fragility of human existence and the search for meaning in a chaotic and confusing world.
Musically, “Motion Picture Soundtrack” is a showcase for Radiohead’s ability to create raw and emotive music with minimal instrumentation. The delicate piano and Yorke’s soulful vocals create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax with the addition of orchestration.
“Motion Picture Soundtrack” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most beautiful and emotional songs, and has become a fan favorite for its raw emotional power and universal themes. Its stark simplicity and poignant lyrics have resonated with listeners around the world, cementing its status as a true classic of modern music.
20. Like Spinning Plates (2000)
“Like Spinning Plates” is a hauntingly beautiful and experimental song by the English rock band Radiohead, originally released as a live performance in 2001 and later reworked and included in their 2001 album, “Amnesiac.” The song features a reverse recording of Thom Yorke’s vocals, creating a sense of eerie disorientation and emotional depth.
The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, with Yorke singing about “this is really happening” and “don’t get sentimental, it always ends up drivel.” The lyrics are open to interpretation, but are often seen as a meditation on the nature of reality and the search for meaning in a confusing and unpredictable world.
Musically, “Like Spinning Plates” is a showcase for Radiohead’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries. The reversed vocals and electronic instrumentation create a sense of otherworldly beauty and emotional depth, with the song building to a powerful and cathartic climax.
“Like Spinning Plates” has been praised as one of Radiohead’s most innovative and experimental songs, and has become a fan favorite for its haunting and otherworldly atmosphere. Its complex and intricate arrangement, combined with its emotional depth and universal themes, have cemented its status as a true classic of modern music.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
