Radiohead are that rare thing: a band that has maintained is artistic freedom over the years, despite being signed to a major label and a band that has constantly developed. This weeks article looks at the story of how Radiohead got to where they are today, and hopefully you can take a few tips so that you can make it the Radiohead way.
The band formed back in 1986, when they were at school. Originally called On a Friday, they played their first gig in 1986, at the famous Jerichos Tavern in Oxford. However, when the members left for university, On a Friday was put to one side, and it wasnt until 1991 that they reformed, and started playing again in Oxford.
At the time, Oxford was becoming a haven for independent musicians. Ride were gaining a national reputation, and by 1992 were playing all the major venues across the country, and Supergrass had just formed, playing the local venues, on their way to international stardom. Radiohead benefited from being part of the local scene, and the early 90s were ideal for indie bands.
It was then that they became Radiohead, and they started releasing demos, including the magnificently-titled Magic Hedgehog Demo. These...