"Creep" is one of Radiohead's most iconic songs, and it played a significant role in their early career. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its impact:
Origins: "Creep" was written by Radiohead's lead vocalist Thom Yorke while he was studying at the University of Exeter. The song was reportedly inspired by his feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
Debut Single: "Creep" was released as Radiohead's debut single in 1992. Initially, it received very little attention and failed to chart in the UK.
Sudden Success: Despite its initial lack of success, "Creep" gained widespread attention when it was re-released in 1993. The song became a massive hit in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Pablo Honey: The song was included on Radiohead's first album, "Pablo Honey," released in 1993. It became the album's most recognizable track and had a significant impact on the band's early reputation.
Controversy: Radiohead had a love-hate relationship with "Creep." The band members became somewhat disillusioned with the song's popularity because it overshadowed their other work, and they even dropped it from their setlists for a period.
Setlist Exile: Radiohead stopped performing "Creep" live for many years, but they eventually brought it back into their setlists, albeit sporadically, in the 2000s and beyond.
Parodies and Covers: "Creep" has been covered and parodied by various artists and comedians over the years, attesting to its enduring cultural impact.
Lyrics: The song's lyrics, with lines like "I'm a creep, I'm a weirdo," struck a chord with many listeners who identified with feelings of alienation and self-doubt.
Music Video: The music video for "Creep" was directed by Jesse Peretz and features the band performing in a dark room with flashing lights. It contributed to the song's popularity on MTV.
Legacy: "Creep" remains one of Radiohead's most recognized and enduring songs. While the band has evolved and experimented with their sound over the years, this early hit remains an important part of their history and discography.
"Creep" is a classic example of a song that took some time to find its audience but eventually became a defining track for its band and a staple of alternative rock music.