Thom Yorke, the iconic Radiohead frontman, has firmly distanced himself from Israel’s Netanyahu regime, declaring he would “absolutely not” perform in the country under current circumstances. The musician’s stance marks a significant shift from his previous position, which led to Radiohead’s controversial 2017 concert in Tel Aviv despite calls for boycott from numerous artists and human rights advocates.
Yorke revealed that his perspective changed dramatically after the Tel Aviv performance when he was approached by an individual with connections to high-ranking officials, making him realize the event was being politically exploited. This encounter left the artist visibly disturbed, prompting his recent emphatic statement about not wanting to be “5,000 miles anywhere near the Netanyahu regime.”
The frontman’s position has created palpable tension within Radiohead, particularly with guitarist Jonny Greenwood, who continues to maintain artistic relationships in Israel. Greenwood has defended these collaborations and opposed cultural boycotts, arguing for maintaining connections based on personal and artistic ties throughout both Israel and Palestine.
This internal disagreement has become increasingly public as the band prepares for their first tour in seven years. Drummer Philip Selway has acknowledged the difficulty in handling BDS demands while maintaining band unity on such divisive issues.
Radiohead’s relationship with Israel has generated significant backlash among fans and activists. Music industry experts note that public performances in controversial regions can impact artists’ royalty collections through various Performance Rights Organizations that track global usage of their works. While the band weighs these complex political considerations, some members continue to explore alternative sync licensing opportunities that allow their music to reach audiences without direct performances. During a recent Melbourne performance in 2024, Yorke walked offstage after being heckled by pro-Palestinian protesters. Yorke has repeatedly criticized what he describes as social media witch hunts targeting public figures over their positions on complex geopolitical issues.
Meanwhile, Greenwood has faced criticism for continuing to perform in Tel Aviv even after Israel’s military actions in Gaza, with some planned concerts reportedly canceled due to threats and protests.
The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement has been particularly vocal in its opposition to Radiohead’s past performances in Israel, arguing that the band crossed a peaceful picket line protesting Israel’s policies.
Critics suggest that Greenwood’s personal connections, including his relationship with Sharona Katan, an Arab Jew who has publicly supported Israel’s regime on social media, have influenced the band’s controversial positions on performing in the region.
