Radiohead Breaks Attendance Record at London’s O2 Arena

Last week, Radiohead achieved a significant milestone by playing four sold-out shows at London’s O2 Arena, surpassing the attendance record previously held by Metallica since 2017. The concerts took place on November 21, 22, 24, and 25, with each performance attracting at least 22,200 fans. The final night saw an attendance of 22,355, marking a historic moment for the venue. Christian D’Acuna, the O2’s senior programming director, expressed gratitude to the band, stating, “These past four record-breaking nights will go down in the venue’s history.”

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This series of performances is part of Radiohead's first tour in seven years, which commenced earlier this month in Madrid. The tour coincides with the 30th anniversary of their second album, *The Bends*. The band has been known for their innovative and unpredictable setlists, featuring songs that have not been performed in years, such as “Like Spinning Plates” from the *Amnesiac* album, which was played during the final London show.

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Following the London shows, Radiohead is scheduled to conclude their tour with four performances in Copenhagen and another four in Berlin. As of now, there are no announcements regarding potential touring plans for 2026 or a return to North America.

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The O2 Arena's management highlighted the significance of these concerts, emphasizing the unique experience provided by Radiohead's varied setlists. D’Acuna noted the honor of hosting the band and the lasting impact of these performances on the venue's history.

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While the record-breaking attendance is celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on attendance figures overshadows the artistic merit of the performances. They suggest that the emphasis on numbers can detract from the overall experience of live music, which should prioritize artistic expression over commercial success.

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• “These past four record-breaking nights will go down in the venue’s history, with Radiohead breaking the attendance records each night,” — Christian D’Acuna, O2 Arena Senior Programming Director

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• “It’s been a true honor to host them, and each night they played different set lists spanning their incredible back catalogue.” — Christian D’Acuna, O2 Arena Senior Programming Director

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There are no conflicting reports regarding the attendance figures or the details of the performances. However, there is a lack of information regarding the band's future touring plans beyond the current schedule.

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Radiohead's recent performances at the O2 Arena not only highlight their enduring popularity but also set a new benchmark in live music attendance, reflecting the band's significant impact on the music industry.

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