"Creep" is one of Radiohead's most iconic songs, and here are some interesting facts about the song and its impact:
Debut Single: "Creep" was released as Radiohead's debut single in 1992. It was featured on their first album, "Pablo Honey," which was released in 1993. The song's success helped launch the band's career.
Initial Rejection: The song was initially not well-received by Radiohead's record label, Parlophone. They even told the band that it was not a hit. However, it gained popularity on its own through radio play and eventually became a massive success.
Influence of The Hollies: The chord progression in the song's verses is strikingly similar to that in The Hollies' 1974 song "The Air That I Breathe." As a result, The Hollies' songwriting duo, Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, were given songwriting credits for "Creep."
Famously Self-Deprecating: Radiohead themselves have had a love-hate relationship with the song over the years. They've described it as a "cursed" song and have even referred to it as their "Scott Walker song" because they felt it didn't represent their true musical direction.
Iconic Guitar Riff: "Creep" is instantly recognizable by its memorable guitar riff, played by Jonny Greenwood. The riff consists of a simple sequence of five power chords, making it accessible for beginner guitarists.
Radio Play Success: Despite the initial skepticism from their record label, "Creep" found its way onto the airwaves and became a massive radio hit. It played a significant role in the band's early popularity.
"Suck" vs. "Creep": In the early stages of recording "Pablo Honey," Radiohead had another song called "Suck" that was considered for the album. However, they decided to include "Creep" instead, which turned out to be a pivotal decision for their career.
Fan Favorite: Despite the band's complicated relationship with "Creep," it remains a fan favorite and is often requested at their live shows, even though Radiohead sometimes jokes about not wanting to play it.
Cultural Impact: "Creep" has been covered and sampled by various artists and has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in pop culture.
Continued Evolution: While "Creep" may represent an earlier, more straightforward rock sound for Radiohead, the band has continued to evolve and experiment with their music, exploring different genres and pushing the boundaries of alternative rock.
"Creep" is undoubtedly a cornerstone of Radiohead's career, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting impact on the music world.