Radiohead reveals story of The Bends album cover

Thom Yorke and Stanley Donwood share how they created the cover for The Bends.

Radiohead shares story behind iconic album cover

In a recent interview, Thom Yorke, the frontman of Radiohead, along with artist Stanley Donwood, revealed the surprising story behind the cover of their album, The Bends. The duo sneaked into a hospital basement to capture the image, inspired by their desire to find an actual iron lung—which is a reference to the album's first single, My Iron Lung. This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Bends, and they are commemorating it with an exhibition at Oxford's Ashmolean Museum. Donwood explained how the cover was initially intended to be a visual representation tied directly to the song. Their adventure highlights a creative approach that has become emblematic of Radiohead's innovative spirit.

This revelation not only enriches the lore surrounding The Bends but also shines a light on Radiohead's unique approach to art and music. The choice to physically seek out an iron lung demonstrates how they intertwine life experiences with their creative process. The exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum offers fans a deeper look into the band's legacy. It also serves as a reminder of the lengths artists may go to achieve authenticity in their work. As the music industry continues to evolve, Radiohead's emphasis on genuine artistic expression remains pertinent, resonating with both longstanding fans and new listeners alike.

Highlights

The story behind their album cover adds another layer to Radiohead's artistic legacy.