Radiohead's song "Creep" is one of their most iconic tracks. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Debut Single: "Creep" was released as Radiohead's debut single in 1992. It quickly gained attention and became a hit, setting the stage for the band's future success.
Initially Disliked by the Band: Surprisingly, Radiohead members, particularly Thom Yorke, weren't fond of the song when they first recorded it. They considered it too straightforward and not representative of their overall musical style.
Inspired by Other Songs: The song's distinctive guitar riff bears a striking resemblance to the 1974 song "The Air That I Breathe" by The Hollies. As a result, Albert Hammond and Mike Hazlewood, the writers of "The Air That I Breathe," were later credited as co-writers of "Creep" due to a copyright dispute.
Resurgence in Popularity: After its initial release, "Creep" didn't receive much attention until it was re-released in 1993. This reissue, accompanied by a music video, helped propel the song to international success.
The Band's Complex Relationship with the Song: Radiohead's complex relationship with "Creep" is well-documented. While it brought them fame, they grew tired of playing it and even went through periods of not performing it live. However, in recent years, they've embraced it again and occasionally include it in their concerts.
Cultural Impact: "Creep" has had a significant impact on popular culture. It's been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials.
Critical Reception: Despite the band's initial reservations, "Creep" has received critical acclaim over the years and is often considered one of the greatest rock songs of the '90s.
Inclusion in "Pablo Honey": "Creep" is the opening track on Radiohead's debut album, "Pablo Honey," which was released in 1993. While the album didn't receive as much critical acclaim as some of their later work, it remains an important part of their discography.
Fan Favorite: Despite the band's ambivalence toward it, "Creep" remains a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances, even if they don't play it at every concert.
Legacy: "Creep" played a crucial role in launching Radiohead's career, but the band's subsequent albums, such as "OK Computer" and "Kid A," marked a departure from the style of "Creep" and solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands in contemporary music.
These facts highlight the significance of "Creep" in Radiohead's history and its enduring impact on the music world.