Radiohead, one of the most innovative and influential bands in modern music history, didn’t always go by that name. Long before they became synonymous with boundary-pushing albums like OK Computer and Kid A, they were simply a group of school friends playing under the unassuming name On A Friday. Let’s dive into the fascinating story of their early days and how they evolved into the global phenomenon we know today.
The Birth of On A Friday
In 1985, at Abingdon School in Oxfordshire, England, five schoolmates came together to form a band. The members—Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Ed O’Brien, and Philip Selway—shared a love for music and spent their free time rehearsing in the school’s music room. They chose the name On A Friday because Fridays were the day they gathered to practice.
During these formative years, the band explored their musical identity, drawing inspiration from post-punk and alternative rock bands like The Smiths, R.E.M., and Pixies. Their sound was raw, and their ambition was palpable.
University and the Reunion
After finishing school, the members of On A Friday went their separate ways to attend university. Despite the physical distance, their shared passion for music kept them in touch. In 1991, they reunited and decided to take their music career seriously. This was the turning point that set them on the path to stardom.
The Manic Hedgehog Demo
Before signing a record deal, On A Friday recorded a demo tape that would later become a key part of their lore. Known as the Manic Hedgehog Demo (named after a local Oxford record store), the tape contained tracks like:
- “I Can’t”
- “Nothing Touches Me”
- “Thinking About You” (later reworked for Pablo Honey)
- “You”
- “Phillipa Chicken”
This demo showcased their potential and attracted the attention of producers and managers. Songs from the demo revealed their early exploration of themes and sounds that would later define their career.
A New Name: Radiohead
When they signed with EMI in 1991, the band decided to change their name. Inspired by the song “Radio Head” from Talking Heads’ 1986 album True Stories, they chose the name Radiohead. This marked a new chapter, signaling their evolution from a group of friends playing music into a professional band with a clear artistic vision.
Legacy of On A Friday
Though their time as On A Friday was brief, it was foundational. It was during these years that they honed their craft, developed their chemistry, and began shaping the ideas that would later come to fruition in albums like The Bends and OK Computer.
Fans and collectors often seek out the Manic Hedgehog Demo and other early recordings to experience the band’s humble beginnings. While these tracks lack the polish of their later work, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the raw talent and creativity that would propel them to global fame.
From Fridays to Forever
The story of On A Friday is a testament to the power of perseverance, friendship, and creativity. What started as a group of teenagers jamming after school evolved into one of the most groundbreaking bands of our time. Radiohead’s journey reminds us that even the biggest legends start small—often on a Friday.
