Radiohead: "Bullet Proof...I Wish I Was"

Dive into a piano solo arrangement by Jennifer Eklund of Radiohead's "Bullet Proof...I Wish I Was" an alternative rock classic brooding ballad from the 1990s.

About Radiohead:

Radiohead is an English rock band formed in 1985 in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. The band consists of Thom Yorke (lead vocals, guitar, piano), Jonny Greenwood (lead guitar, keyboards, other instruments), Colin Greenwood (bass), Ed O’Brien (guitar, backing vocals), and Philip Selway (drums, percussion).

Radiohead’s early sound was influenced by alternative rock and Britpop, but they later ventured into experimental and electronic music, becoming known for their innovative approach to songwriting and production. They gained widespread acclaim with their third album, “OK Computer” (1997), which is often hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time. The album showcased Radiohead’s complex musical arrangements, introspective lyrics, and exploration of themes such as modern alienation and technological dystopia.

Subsequent albums saw Radiohead experimenting with different genres and sonic landscapes. “Kid A” (2000) and “Amnesiac” (2001) marked a significant departure from their earlier guitar-driven sound, incorporating elements of electronic music, jazz, and ambient music. Despite this experimentation, both albums received critical acclaim and commercial success.

Radiohead continued to push boundaries with albums like “Hail to the Thief” (2003), “In Rainbows” (2007), and “A Moon Shaped Pool” (2016), blending rock, electronic, and orchestral elements to create a unique and evolving sound. They are also known for their innovative distribution methods, such as releasing “In Rainbows” as a pay-what-you-want download.

Throughout their career, Radiohead has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and nominations. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential and pioneering bands of their generation, known for their artistic integrity, musical innovation, and thought-provoking lyrics.

About “Bullet Proof…I Wish I Was”:

“Bullet Proof… I Wish I Was” is a song by the English rock band Radiohead, featured on their critically acclaimed album “The Bends,” released in 1995. The song was written by Radiohead’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Thom Yorke.

Musically, “Bullet Proof… I Wish I Was” is characterized by its dreamy and melancholic atmosphere, featuring gentle acoustic guitar arpeggios, subtle electric guitar embellishments, and understated percussion. Yorke’s ethereal vocals contribute to the song’s introspective and reflective mood.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of vulnerability, insecurity, and the desire for emotional protection. The title “Bullet Proof… I Wish I Was” suggests a longing for invincibility in the face of life’s challenges and uncertainties. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for safety and security, as Yorke expresses a wish to shield himself from the emotional pain and turmoil of the world around him.

“Bullet Proof… I Wish I Was” is often regarded as one of the standout tracks on “The Bends,” praised for its poignant lyrics, haunting melody, and emotional depth. It showcases Radiohead’s ability to create atmospheric and introspective music that resonates with listeners on a personal level.