Radiohead guitarist Ed O'Brien has curated a playlist of songs that have shaped his life, from his first single to the music he wants played at his funeral. In a candid interview, he reveals his evolving musical tastes and personal memories.
The First Single I Bought
O'Brien's first single was 'Ally's Tartan Army,' the 1978 Scottish World Cup song. He bought it because England hadn't qualified, and he was swept up in World Cup fever as a 10-year-old, loving the Scottish team featuring Alan Rough, Martin Buchan, Gordon McQueen, and Kenny Dalglish.
The First Song I Fell in Love With
At 17, O'Brien fell for a girl named Mary, a huge Smiths fan. He bought 'Hatful of Hollow' to serenade her with 'William, It Was Really Nothing.' He admits she probably didn't adore him as much as she adored the Smiths.
The Song I Do at Karaoke
While promoting 'OK Computer' in Japan for his 29th birthday, O'Brien ended up at a karaoke bar with the head of Toshiba EMI. By 1am, they were wearing prosthetic animal heads, and his bandmate Thom Yorke sang 'My Way' to tears. O'Brien loves karaoke when people are inebriated and enthusiastic.
The Song I Inexplicably Know Every Lyric To
O'Brien has a deep appreciation for George Michael's 'Fastlove,' calling him a genius of pop. He marvels at Michael's voice, acknowledging it might sound odd coming from a Radiohead member.
The Best Song to Play at a Party
At a Halloween party in LA that was too cool and timid, the DJ played 'Daft Punk Is Playing at My House' by LCD Soundsystem, instantly transforming the atmosphere. O'Brien thought, 'Fucking hell, here we go.'
The Best Song to Have Sex To
O'Brien prefers the sounds of nature—the river, the wind, each other—over music during intimate moments. He says it's either music or sex for him.
The Song I Can No Longer Listen To
O'Brien has had his fill of indie music and guitar-based songs. He's glad he never has to listen to Radiohead's 'How Do You?' anymore.
The Song I Secretly Like, But Tell Everyone I Hate
While out with friends, O'Brien heard 'The Captain of Her Heart' by Double and found himself analyzing it. He now considers it a great tune, despite once dismissing it.
The Song That Changed My Life
'Walking on the Moon' by the Police inspired O'Brien to pick up a guitar. He loves the sound of Andy Summers' guitar, which makes it feel like it was recorded on the moon.
The Song That Gets Me Up in the Morning
O'Brien starts his day with Bach's Mass in B minor, a classical piece that sets the tone.
The Song That Makes Me Cry
His new song 'Blue Morpho' triggers tears. When his children were young, the family lived on a farm in Brazil on the edge of the rainforest. The song captures the emotion of their childhood, making him cry whenever he thinks of it.
The Song I'd Like Played at My Funeral
O'Brien sang in Gabriel Fauré's Requiem as a child. The final movement, 'In Paradisum,' is one of the most beautiful and seemingly simple pieces of music. He wants that played at his funeral.
'Blue Morpho' is out now, and Ed O'Brien plays live in October.
