On this date in 1997, The album OK Computer was released in the United Kingdom.
OK Computer , the third studio album by Radiohead, is a magnum opus, stands as a pivotal moment in the band’s discography and significant in the evolution of alternative rock. The album’s themes, musical innovation, and critical acclaim have cemented its place as one of the most influential and iconic albums of all time.
Despite lowered sales estimates by EMI, who deemed the record uncommercial and difficult to market, OK Computer reached number one on the UK Album Chart and debuted at number 21 on the Billboard 200, Radiohead’s highest album entry on the US charts at the time, and was soon certified five times platinum in the UK and double platinum in the US. “Paranoid Android”, “Karma Police”, “Lucky” and “No Surprises” were released as singles. The albumhttps://youtu.be/1uYWYWPc9HU expanded Radiohead’s international popularity and has sold at least 7.8 million units worldwide.
OK Computer was nominated for the Album of the Year and won Best Alternative Music Album at the 1998 Grammy Awards. It was also nominated for Best British Album at the 1998 Brit Awards. It was included by the United States Library of Congress in the National Recording Registry as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”.
Rolling Stone called OK Computer “a masterpiece that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.” Pitchfork stated: “This album is a triumph of both songwriting and sonic exploration.” NME praised the album and said: “This is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant masterpiece that solidifies Radiohead’s place as one of the most innovative bands of our time.”
Happy 26th anniversary, OK Computer! Stay sonically adventurous and keep pushing boundaries, you Subterranean homesick aliens!
💧 You might also like RED RIGHT HAND.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
Featured image via NPR.
