Radiohead’s announcement of first tour in seven years garners unexpected controversy

Acclaimed rock band Radiohead is making a much-anticipated return to the stage, marking their first tour in seven years. The band will begin its reunion tour with a series of concerts across Europe, starting on Tuesday, November 4, in Spain, according to The Guardian. Flyers and online promotions reportedly hinted at now-confirmed stops in London, Copenhagen, Berlin, and Madrid, exciting fans across the continent.

As reported by Syracuse.com, the buzz about the tour escalated after the band re-formed the legal partnership RHEUK25 LLP earlier this year. Fans suggested this hinted at a "Radiohead Europe and UK 2025” tour dates, Syracuse.com says. Drummer Philip Selway expressed excitement about reuniting during rehearsals last year, stating in a press release referenced by The Guardian: “After a seven-year pause, it felt really good to play the songs again and reconnect with a musical identity that has become lodged deep inside all five of us.”

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Controversial public reactions 

Tickets for these European concerts are in high demand, with pre-registration required to purchase them. According to The Guardian, this measure aims to reduce scalping and prioritize local fans, and profits will support various causes, including grassroots arts venues and Médecins Sans Frontières.

Despite the excitement, the tour faces unexpected controversy. The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel has called for a boycott of Radiohead's concerts, particularly due to member Jonny Greenwood's previous performances in Tel Aviv amidst the Israel-Palestine conflict, The Guardian reported. The campaign's statement criticized the band for its "complicit silence" during ongoing regional tensions.

Frontman Thom Yorke has largely remained indifferent to external pressures and speculations about the band’s decisions. According to The Guardian, regarding the controversy around the band’s return, Yorke commented, “I am not aware and don’t really give a flying —,” demonstrating the band's focus on their creative journey over public opinion.