Radiohead guitarist Ed O’Brien has confirmed that the band are preparing to return to the stage with a new, carefully paced touring model to combat burnout.
The indie band returned to the stage in 2025, following a seven-year hiatus, to play a limited run of shows across Europe with stops in Madrid, Bologna, London, Copenhagen, and Berlin.
Speaking to Rolling Stone, Ed said the band has agreed on a long-term plan that will see them perform in focused bursts rather than undertaking the kind of exhaustive world tours they once did.
Asked if they are hitting the road again, he said: “It’s definitely happening.
“What we’re going to do is, every year we’re going to do a different continent, and we’re going to do 20 shows each year. No more, no less.”
He also confirmed that Radiohead will remain inactive throughout 2026, but are aiming to regroup the following year.
He said: “We won’t do anything this year, but we’ll do something next year,” he said.
Ed explained that the new approach is designed to preserve the band’s energy and ensure every performance feels meaningful.
He said: “We want to give absolutely everything each night.
“We do not ever want it to be like we’re going through the motions or we’re having to run on empty. We’ve got to be able to do it. And you know what? We’re not spring chickens anymore.”
The guitarist also spoke candidly about the period after Radiohead wrapped up touring in 2018, admitting he felt emotionally and creatively drained.
He said: “I was done with Radiohead.
“It had got to a place where I just wasn’t enjoying it. I just didn’t resonate with it anymore, and I wanted to do my own thing… I think we’d run out of road. We’d run out of inspiration.”
Despite his reluctance, Ed ultimately agreed to finish the tour.
He said: “The others said they wanted to tour. I didn’t really want to tour, and they knew that. But I did it and I’m glad I did. I saw it through to the end.”
Lead guitarist Jonny Greenwood recently admitted he was amazed the latest jaunt happened at all, while admitting he was unsure what the future holds for the Creep rockers.
He told The Times newspaper: “I’m surprised that the tour actually happened and that we all enjoyed it so much.”
Regarding future shows, he added: “Venues get booked so far in advance. To do another we would have to decide now, and even then it wouldn’t happen for 18 months.”
