Radiohead's 'Creep' Returns to Billboard Hot 100 Thanks to TikTok

Radiohead's "Let Down" Climbs the Charts Thanks to TikTok

An unexpected increase in popularity on TikTok has propelled Radiohead to achieve a new milestone: their fourth song, the poignant track “Let Down,” has entered the Billboard Hot 100. The song originally appeared on the band’s critically acclaimed 1997 album, “OK Computer.”

A Fan Favorite Gains Recognition

While “Let Down” didn’t initially achieve the widespread recognition of Radiohead hits like “Creep” or “Karma Police,” it remains a beloved song among fans. It’s distinct from viral sensations like Pavement’s “Harness Your Hopes,” which gained traction through Spotify’s recommendation system. “Let Down” is a standout track from an album widely regarded as one of the greatest rock albums ever created.

Beyond Background Music: Emotional Resonance

The song’s resurgence differs from trends seen with Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” or Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams.” It isn’t simply being used as accompaniment for everyday content like makeup tutorials or cooking videos. Instead, users are connecting with the song’s deeply emotional core.

The track evokes a sense of melancholy, yet simultaneously offers a glimmer of hope. This juxtaposition—the desire to escape sadness while acknowledging its intensity—amplifies the song’s emotional impact.

A Personal Connection and Viral Trend

The trend first came to attention when a TikTok video surfaced, specifically tailored to resonate with a fan of both the Philadelphia Phillies and Radiohead. The video featured highlights of Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler, who is facing season-ending surgery, set to a choral rendition of “Let Down.”

Lyrics from the song, “Bouncing back and/One day, I am gonna grow wings,” were overlaid on the Wheeler highlights, creating a powerfully moving montage.

Not Algorithmic Malice, But Emotional Connection

It’s reassuring to note that this isn’t an instance of TikTok’s algorithm intentionally targeting users with emotionally distressing content. Rather, the song’s inherent qualities are driving its popularity.

Widespread Use in Emotional Edits

Numerous videos featuring emotionally charged content are now utilizing “Let Down” as a soundtrack. This includes edits from scenes in the Hunger Games films. The song received an initial boost after being featured in the season 1 finale of the television series “The Bear.”

In May, a music-focused TikTok account shared a choral edit of “Let Down,” which has since become a common element in these videos.

A Call for Sadness and Overwhelming Response

The caption of the original TikTok video read, “Please make the saddest edit that ever exist [sic] with this overlay.” The post garnered over 1 million likes, demonstrating the song’s ability to tap into a collective emotional experience.

Rising Interest and Chart Success

Data from Google Trends reveals a steady increase in interest in “Let Down” throughout the spring, culminating in its recent entry onto the Billboard charts.