Radiohead

Radiohead Live at the Uber Arena, Berlin - Friday, 12th December 2025

Prepare for an evening of sonic exploration and unparalleled musical artistry as the legendary Radiohead graces the stage of the iconic Uber Arena in Berlin on Friday, 12th December 2025. This is not merely a concert; it is an immersion into a world meticulously crafted by one of the most influential and revered bands of our generation. Having consistently pushed the boundaries of rock music for over three decades, Radiohead’s live performances are renowned for their intensity, emotional depth, and breathtaking sonic landscapes. Their return to Berlin promises to be an unforgettable experience, a chance to witness their evolutionary soundscapes and timeless anthems reverberate through one of Europe’s premier live music venues. This is a rare opportunity to connect with the music that has soundtracked countless lives and redefined the very fabric of modern music.

About Radiohead

Formed in Oxfordshire, England, in 1985, Radiohead have ascended to become titans of the alternative rock scene, celebrated globally for their adventurous spirit, intellectual depth, and consistently groundbreaking approach to music creation. Comprising Thom Yorke (vocals, guitar, piano), Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar, keyboards, samples), Colin Greenwood (bass), Ed O’Brien (guitar, backing vocals), and Philip Selway (drums), the band initially gained traction in the early 1990s with their debut single “Creep” from their album Pablo Honey. However, it was their subsequent works, particularly The Bends (1995) and the seminal OK Computer (1997), that cemented their reputation as artistic innovators. OK Computer, a sprawling masterpiece, is frequently cited as one of the greatest albums of all time, lauded for its prescient commentary on technology, alienation, and modern life, interwoven with complex song structures and haunting melodies.

Radiohead’s evolution continued with Kid A (2000) and Amnesiac (2001), albums that saw them dramatically diverge from guitar-centric rock, embracing electronic textures, avant-garde influences, and experimental sounds. This fearless exploration, while initially divisive for some, ultimately expanded their artistic palette and alienated no one who truly appreciated their commitment to innovation. Subsequent albums like Hail to the Thief (2003), In Rainbows (2007) – famously released under a pay-what-you-want model – The King of Limbs (2011), and A Moon Shaped Pool (2016) have showcased their continued ability to captivate, surprise, and resonate with a diverse and dedicated fanbase. Their notable hits span across these eras, including anthems like “Karma Police,” “No Surprises,” “Everything In Its Right Place,” “Pyramid Song,” “Nude,” and “Reckoner,” each a testament to their enduring lyrical prowess and sophisticated musicality. Radiohead remain a band whose work is not just heard but felt, offering profound reflections on the human condition through their unique and ever-evolving sonic tapestry.

Venue Information

The Uber Arena, situated in the heart of Berlin, is a world-class, multi-purpose indoor arena renowned for hosting spectacular sporting events, major concerts, and diverse entertainment spectacles. With a state-of-the-art sound system and impressive visual capabilities, it provides an exceptional environment for live music, ensuring that every note and every nuance of Radiohead’s performance will be delivered with clarity and power. The venue offers a variety of seating and standing areas designed to provide optimal viewing and listening experiences for all attendees, making it a fitting home for a band of Radiohead’s stature. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A Radiohead concert is an experience that transcends the typical live music event. Expect a meticulously crafted sonic journey that delves deep into their expansive discography. While setlists are never predictable, fans can anticipate a potent blend of beloved classics and deeper cuts, expertly woven together to create a cohesive and emotionally charged performance. Tracks like the anthemic “Karma Police” and the introspective “No Surprises” from OK Computer are often met with rapturous applause, while the ethereal beauty of “Pyramid Song” or the complex rhythms of “Reckoner” from In Rainbows showcase their unparalleled musicianship. Moments from their more experimental periods, such as the pulsating electronic textures of “Everything In Its Right Place” or the haunting melodies of “Idioteque” from Kid A, are likely to create moments of collective awe.

Radiohead’s performance style is characterized by an intense focus and a palpable energy that emanates from each band member. Thom Yorke’s mesmerising stage presence, often a blend of vulnerability and raw intensity, commands attention, while the intricate guitar work of Jonny Greenwood, the solid rhythmic foundation laid by Colin Greenwood and Philip Selway, and the atmospheric contributions of Ed O’Brien create a soundscape that is both vast and intricately detailed. Visuals often play a significant role, with sophisticated lighting and stage design complementing the music without overshadowing it, creating an immersive environment. The duration of a Radiohead show typically spans around two to two and a half hours, including encores, allowing ample time for them to explore the breadth of their artistic output and deliver a truly satisfying and memorable performance. Prepare for an evening where sonic innovation meets profound emotional resonance.

FAQs

Q1: Given Radiohead’s reputation for experimental performances, should I expect a completely different setlist each night, or will there be a core of fan favourites?

Radiohead are known for their dynamic approach to setlists, often tailoring them to the specific venue and the energy of the audience on the night. While you can absolutely count on a generous sprinkling of their most beloved and iconic tracks that resonate with a broad audience – think “Karma Police,” “No Surprises,” or perhaps a moment from OK Computer – they also consistently weave in deeper cuts and tracks from their more experimental albums. This ensures that each show feels unique and offers something for both long-time aficionados and those newer to their extensive catalogue. The magic lies in how they seamlessly blend these elements, creating a narrative arc within their performance that can surprise and delight even the most dedicated fans.

Q2: What is Radiohead’s general approach to audience interaction during their live shows?

Radiohead are not a band known for extensive stage banter or direct interaction with the crowd in the conventional sense. Their focus is primarily on the music itself. Thom Yorke often conveys emotion and connection through his performance and lyrical delivery rather than through spoken words. While there might be brief acknowledgements or nods to the audience, the primary “interaction” is the shared experience of the music and the atmosphere created within the venue. This allows the audience to become fully immersed in the sonic world Radiohead constructs, fostering a profound and collective appreciation for their artistry.

Q3: Are there likely to be any support acts for Radiohead’s Berlin performance?

Radiohead typically prefer to perform without support acts, allowing their own extensive set to take centre stage and provide a complete evening’s entertainment. Their concerts are designed as a self-contained artistic statement, and the duration of their headline sets is substantial enough to offer a full and fulfilling experience for attendees. Therefore, it is highly probable that this will be a pure Radiohead performance, dedicating the entire evening to their unparalleled live delivery.

Q4: What is Radiohead’s stance on mobile phone usage during their concerts?

Radiohead have, in the past, expressed a preference for their audience to be fully present during their performances and have encouraged, and in some instances enforced, mobile phone-free concerts. While policies can evolve, their general ethos is to create an environment where the audience can immerse themselves in the music without the distraction of screens. It is advisable to check the official Uber Arena guidelines closer to the date, but be prepared for the possibility that phone usage may be restricted to encourage a more engaged and communal listening experience.

Q5: How can I best prepare for a Radiohead concert to fully appreciate their performance style and musical complexity?

To best prepare for a Radiohead concert, consider revisiting their extensive discography. Pay attention not only to the well-known singles but also to the sonic textures, lyrical themes, and thematic progressions across their albums. Understanding the evolution of their sound from the more guitar-driven OK Computer to the electronic explorations of Kid A and the nuanced beauty of A Moon Shaped Pool will enhance your appreciation of the setlist’s potential breadth. Familiarise yourself with some of their more complex or atmospheric tracks, as these often form the backbone of their live shows. Ultimately, go with an open mind, ready to be absorbed by the sonic journey and the palpable emotional weight of their performance.