Roger Waters Slams Radiohead’s Thom Yorke: “I Think He’s Damaged” — Accuses Yorke of Breaking Up Radiohead for Selfish Ambitions
In a stunning and unexpected verbal attack, Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters has taken aim at Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke, accusing him of intentionally dismantling the legendary alternative rock band in order to pursue a solo career that “was all he ever really wanted.”
In a recent off-the-cuff interview during a music roundtable, Waters didn’t hold back when asked about modern artists and the direction of rock music. When the topic shifted to Radiohead’s legacy, Waters delivered a jaw-dropping critique.
“Thom Yorke? I think he’s damaged,” Waters said. “He never wanted to be in Radiohead. He wanted the attention, the spotlight, the control. The band — that was just a stepping stone.”
Waters went on to suggest that Yorke deliberately pulled away from the collaborative spirit that defined Radiohead’s early years, causing deep fractures within the group and eventually leading to its slow disintegration.
“He broke that band up on purpose. Let’s not kid ourselves,” Waters continued. “The others were just as creative. Jonny [Greenwood] is a genius. But Thom wanted his name in lights — he wanted to be Radiohead, not in Radiohead.”
A Generational Clash?
The comments have reignited long-standing debates about artistic control, band dynamics, and the mental pressures of fronting a globally acclaimed act. Waters, who famously clashed with his own Pink Floyd bandmates, has never been shy about expressing frustration with what he sees as ego-driven leadership in rock music.
“I’ve been there,” Waters added. “I know what it’s like when one guy starts believing his own mythology.”
Yorke, who has built a critically acclaimed solo career while also working with side project The Smile, has not yet responded to Waters’ comments. However, fans of both Pink Floyd and Radiohead have taken to social media to debate the merit — and motive — of the remarks.
Some see Waters’ comments as bitter and hypocritical given his own history of walking away from Pink Floyd, while others argue he’s simply telling hard truths no one else dares to say.
Radiohead’s Status: Broken or Evolved?
Radiohead has not officially broken up, but the band has been on a prolonged hiatus since touring in support of 2016’s A Moon Shaped Pool. Multiple members have pursued solo and side projects, with Yorke most prominently stepping into experimental and film score territory.
Despite the gap, fans have continued to hope for a reunion. But with Waters now fanning the flames of internal discord, speculation is swirling once again about whether Radiohead’s golden days are officially behind them.
Until Yorke responds, Roger Waters’ words will echo loudly in the halls of rock fandom: a generational legend accusing a modern-day icon of selfish ambition and deliberate sabotage.
