Radiohead Etches New Chapter in O2 Arena History with Record-Breaking Attendance

Radiohead. Just saying the name conjures images of groundbreaking music, profound lyrics, and an almost mythical stage presence. So perhaps it's no shock, really, that when the iconic band rolled into London's O2 Arena in October 2017, they didn't just play a couple of gigs; they carved their name firmly into the venue's history books.

Across two unforgettable nights, October 8th and 9th, Thom Yorke and co. pulled in a staggering 38,000 devoted fans. Think about that for a second – thirty-eight thousand people, all gathered under one roof, experiencing the magic. This incredible turnout wasn't just impressive; it actually blew the previous attendance record out of the water, a record held by fellow rock titans Muse, who had drawn 37,800 across their own two-night stint in 2016.

These record-breaking shows were a key part of their critically acclaimed 'A Moon Shaped Pool' tour, a testament to an album that continued to captivate audiences worldwide. It wasn't Radiohead's first rodeo at the O2, either; they'd graced the venue's stage back in 2008. But this time, it felt different, almost like a homecoming triumph that resonated on a whole new level.

Naturally, the folks running the O2 Arena were absolutely thrilled. Steve Sayer, the venue's general manager, couldn't help but sing their praises, remarking, 'It was fantastic to have Radiohead back at The O2 for two sold out shows and it’s testament to the band’s enduring appeal that they have broken our attendance record.' He truly underscored what everyone already knew: Radiohead isn't just a band; they're a cultural phenomenon with an enduring, loyal fanbase.

The London dates weren't the only ones on the UK leg of the tour, mind you. They also treated fans in Manchester and Glasgow to their distinctive sound. But there's something about breaking a record at the O2, isn't there? It’s consistently ranked as one of the world's busiest music venues, a true mecca for live performances. To set a new benchmark there? Well, that’s just another feather in Radiohead’s already heavily feathered cap, solidifying their status as true legends of the live music scene.