"How I Made My Millions" is an interesting and unique Radiohead song with some notable facts:
Hidden Gem: "How I Made My Millions" is not one of Radiohead's most famous or mainstream songs, but it has garnered a dedicated following among the band's fans. It is considered a hidden gem in their discography.
Unconventional Recording: The song has a lo-fi and unpolished sound compared to Radiohead's more produced tracks. It was recorded on a cassette tape during the OK Computer sessions in 1996. The simplicity and rawness of the recording give it a distinctive charm.
Thom Yorke's Vocal Performance: Thom Yorke's vocals in "How I Made My Millions" are particularly vulnerable and emotional. The unfiltered nature of the recording captures the rawness of his singing, making it a deeply moving and personal performance.
Absence from Albums: Despite its uniqueness and fan appreciation, "How I Made My Millions" didn't make it onto any of Radiohead's official studio albums. Instead, it was released as a B-side on the "No Surprises" single in 1998.
Minimalist Lyrics: The song's lyrics are minimalist, with a focus on the theme of reflection and nostalgia. Yorke's lyrics describe a sense of longing and introspection about past experiences and the choices that led to the present moment.
Live Performances: While "How I Made My Millions" wasn't a regular part of Radiohead's live setlist, the band did perform it on a few occasions during their tours, adding to its appeal among fans who got the chance to experience it live.
Influence on Radiohead's Evolution: This song, along with other experimental B-sides and tracks from Radiohead's early years, showcases the band's willingness to explore different musical styles and experiment with their sound. It hints at the evolution that would lead them from the alternative rock of their early albums to the more electronic and experimental sound of their later work.
In summary, "How I Made My Millions" is a special and unconventional Radiohead track that stands out for its lo-fi recording, emotional vocal performance, and its status as a hidden gem in the band's discography.