Thom Yorke, the legendary frontman of Radiohead and Atoms for Peace, shares his candid thoughts on performing, admitting it can be 'either wicked fun or really awful.' He discusses his quirky pre-show ritual of standing on his head and reflects on the enduring bond with his bandmates, formed since their teenage years. The conversation dives into the evolution of their unique sound, the challenges of fame, and the joys of live performances. Yorke also opens up about personal growth and balancing family life with his music career.
Thom Yorke describes the emotional rollercoaster of live performances, highlighting the crucial connection with audiences during shows.
He reflects on his musical evolution, emphasizing the shift toward technology in music production that has influenced collaborative projects.
Yorke critiques the contemporary music industry's focus on quantity over quality, expressing hope for a resurgence of meaningful sounds.
Deep dives
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds Promotion
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Opill Birth Control Introduction
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Tom York’s Musical Journey and Experimentation
Tom York recalls his musical evolution, particularly with the formation of Radiohead and how it has shaped his creative journey. He discusses the transition from traditional band setups to incorporating computers and technology in music production, which changed their creative process. This exploration led to the birth of other collaborative projects like Atoms for Peace, showcasing his desire to experiment with different musical styles. York expresses the joy found in collaboration and the evolution of his musical expression over the years.
Insights on Celebrity and Live Performance
Tom York reflects on the pressures and mental challenges involved in being a public figure and performing live. He candidly discusses his preparation rituals before a show, describing his need for mental clarity to perform effectively. The connection he feels with the audience during live performances is a crucial aspect of his career, illustrating the emotional energy exchange that happens on stage. York emphasizes the importance of creating an intimate atmosphere even in large venues to foster a genuine connection with fans.
Views on the Current Music Landscape
Tom York shares his observations on the contemporary music industry and the overwhelming amount of content available today. He describes the mainstream music scene as a 'void,' feeling that quality has diminished with the emphasis on quantity. Despite this, he acknowledges that exciting and innovative music continues to be created, even if it's harder to discover. York maintains hope for a resurgence of meaningful music, emphasizing the joy of discovering new sounds through shared experiences.
Thom Yorke, Radiohead and Atoms for Peace frontman, admits that, even after over 25 years in the business, performing is “either wicked fun or really awful.” He talks with Alec about his pre-show ritual—"I stand on my head for a bit"—and how he and his bandmates have been able to stick together since they were teenagers. Originally aired April 1st, 2013