Radiohead has recently opened up about their complicated relationship with Israel, following a history of backlash regarding their performances in the country. The iconic British band, known for their expressive music and activism, is set to embark on a U-turn of live concerts—marking their first tour in seven years. Scheduled for November and December, these performances will take place in cities including Madrid, Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin.
The controversy surrounding Radiohead’s Israeli performances has intensified over the years, especially from groups like the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which has urged the band to cancel shows in Israel. Guitarist Jonny Greenwood, who has personal ties to Israel through his marriage to Israeli artist Sharona Katan and his collaborations with both Israeli and Arab musicians, has faced additional scrutiny as a result. His involvement has led to heated discussions, with other artists such as Roger Waters and Thurston Moore publicly criticizing the band’s choices.
In an interview with The Times, singer Thom Yorke expressed the emotional weight of the backlash, stating, “This wakes me up at night.” He emphasized the struggle artists face when their work and opinions are challenged, asserting that he doesn’t consider himself a bad person. Yorke recounted a recent encounter in London where he was urged to distance himself from Greenwood, reflecting on the futility of such public outbursts amidst a larger conflict. He firmly stated that he would not consider returning to Israel, emphasizing his discomfort with the current political regime but also understanding Greenwood’s connection to the country.
In contrast, Greenwood voiced disagreement with Yorke’s sentiment, advocating for continued engagement over boycott, suggesting that alienation could further exacerbate tensions. He expressed no regrets about his collaborations with both Arab and Jewish artists and acknowledged the complexity of the situation.
The context of their discussions also comes against a backdrop of ongoing and intensifying conflict between Israel and Palestine, recently escalating with a major attack by Hamas in October 2023, which resulted in significant loss of life. A ceasefire has since been implemented, marking a fragile pause in hostilities that has allowed for the release of hostages.
As Radiohead prepares for their comeback tour, the exploration of their stance on such pressing issues resonates deeply within the cultural landscape, highlighting the challenges artists face in balancing personal beliefs, public perception, and the pursuit of their craft. The upcoming concerts promise not only to be a celebration of their music but also serve as a backdrop for ongoing dialogue regarding complex global issues.