"Creep" is one of Radiohead's most iconic songs, and here are some interesting facts about it:
Debut Single: "Creep" was released as Radiohead's debut single in 1992. It was initially not very successful, but it would go on to become one of their signature songs.
Inspiration: The song's lyrics, written by Thom Yorke, convey feelings of self-doubt and alienation. Yorke has mentioned that he drew inspiration from a girl he had a crush on while attending Exeter University. The song's chorus, with the repeated line "I'm a creep," reflects a sense of personal insecurity.
Self-Deprecating: "Creep" is somewhat of an outlier in Radiohead's discography. The band has often expressed mixed feelings about the song, with some members at times being uncomfortable with its popularity. However, they have since embraced it as a part of their history.
Hit Rebirth: After its initial release, "Creep" gained significant attention and airplay on American radio stations, particularly in the mid-1990s. This resurgence in popularity helped Radiohead establish a fan base in the United States.
Pablo Honey: The song appears on Radiohead's debut album, "Pablo Honey," which was released in 1993. While "Creep" is undoubtedly the most famous track from the album, it also contains other noteworthy songs like "Anyone Can Play Guitar" and "Stop Whispering."
Live Performances: Radiohead has had a complex relationship with performing "Creep" live. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, they often excluded it from their setlists. However, in more recent years, they have occasionally reintroduced it into their live shows, sometimes with a fresh arrangement.
Royalties Controversy: The song briefly became the subject of controversy due to similarities between its chord progression and that of the 1974 song "The Air That I Breathe" by The Hollies. As a result, Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, the songwriters of "The Air That I Breathe," were given co-writing credits and a share of the royalties for "Creep."
Covers and Homages: "Creep" has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. It's become a cultural touchstone and is often referenced in pop culture.
Fan Favorite: Despite the band's mixed feelings about the song, "Creep" remains a fan favorite and is typically played at many of Radiohead's concerts, especially during their encores.
Evolution of the Band: "Creep" marked the beginning of Radiohead's career, but the band has continually evolved and experimented with their sound in subsequent albums, moving away from the grunge-inspired sound of their early days.
"Creep" has had a lasting impact on Radiohead's career and music history, showcasing both their early sound and their later artistic evolution.