Radiohead Frontman Thom Yorke Describes Criticism Over Israel Performance as a “Witch-Hunt”
LONDON – Thom Yorke, frontman for the band Radiohead, has revealed the intense backlash surrounding their 2017 performance in Tel Aviv, Israel, continues to effect him, describing the criticism as a “witch-hunt” that “wakes me up at night.” The comments come as Radiohead prepares for a 2025 tour of Europe and the UK,following a period of internal division regarding the band’s stance on the Boycott,Divestment,Sanctions (BDS) movement.
The controversy stems from calls by pro-Palestinian activists for artists to boycott performing in Israel, viewing it as a form of complicity with the Israeli government’s policies. Radiohead’s decision to play in Tel Aviv sparked widespread condemnation, fracturing relationships within the band itself and with fellow musicians.The renewed discussion highlights the ongoing ethical dilemmas faced by artists navigating politically charged environments and the personal toll of public controversy.
Yorke previously defended the band’s decision, stating, “Playing a country isn’t the same as endorsing its government.We don’t endorse Netanyahu any more than trump.” However, the debate has resurfaced as the band prepares to return to the stage, with guitarist Ed O’Brien expressing regret they did not also play Ramallah in the West Bank.
Internal tensions within Radiohead were further revealed in recent statements. O’Brien admitted the band members “haven’t really spoken to one another much” recently, despite once being “tight.” Drummer Philip Selway noted the BDS movement’s request to distance themselves from Jonny Greenwood was “impractical,” arguing it would effectively end the band, while acknowledging the ”odd” experience of being ostracized by artists they previously aligned with.
Radiohead’s upcoming tour dates include multiple shows in Madrid, bologna, London’s O2, Copenhagen, and Berlin between November 4 and December 12. Tickets for the tour sold out quickly in September, prompting the band to release additional “unlock codes” for fans. Their most recent live performance was on August 1,2018,at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia,concluding their ‘A moon Shaped Pool’ tour supporting their 2017 album of the same name – an album they have yet to follow up with new material.
