Radiohead Hits the Road After Seven Years!

After a seven-year hiatus from touring, iconic British rock band Radiohead has officially announced a European and UK tour set for this November and December. Fans can expect electrifying performances in cities like Madrid, Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin.

BDS Movement Demands Fans Boycott

However, the excitement has quickly been overshadowed by controversy. The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement is calling for fans to boycott the band, following their announcement. In a statement released by the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI), the group expressed outrage at Radiohead's continued silence regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

The statement sharply criticized guitarist Jonny Greenwood, accusing him of ignoring their calls for solidarity by performing close to conflict zones with Israeli artist Dudu Tassa. They asserted that these performances contributed to the normalization of Israel's actions against Palestinians.

A Call to Action

PACBI has urged supporters to refrain from attending Radiohead's upcoming shows unless the band distances itself from Greenwood's alleged complicity during the escalating violence in Gaza.

Greenwood's Response and Past Controversies

This isn't the first time Greenwood has been at the center of such disputes. He has previously performed in Tel Aviv several times, collaborating with Tassa on their Jarak Qaribak project, which highlights Arabic music. However, following mounting pressure from BDS activists, a planned series of UK shows were abruptly canceled. Greenwood defended the cancellations as a form of censorship, stating, "Forcing musicians not to play is censorship. It will not bring peace and justice."

Radiohead’s History in Israel

Radiohead has been no stranger to backlash over their performances in Israel. Their 2017 concert in Tel Aviv sparked significant protest, with prominent figures like former Pink Floyd frontman Roger Waters voicing their disapproval. Despite this, frontman Thom Yorke has stood by the band's choice to perform, arguing that playing in a country does not equate to political endorsement. He has accused activists of misrepresenting his position and has challenged their tactics.

The Path Ahead for Radiohead

As Radiohead gears up for its long-awaited return to the stage, the band finds itself navigating a complex landscape of music, art, and political activism. Will they address the growing outcry, or stick to their artistic merriments? Only time will tell!