“This machine will not communicate”: The Decentralization of Authority in Radiohead’s Music and Digital Media

Abstract

This study examines how the British band Radiohead have decentralized their authority over their lyrics, music, song titles, artwork, music videos, Web sites, and business practices to allow listeners to participate in the meaning-making process. In pursuit of this goal, the band has supported and developed digital spaces for fan interpretations, playlists, and remixes. As a result, Radiohead have empowered their fans to act as cultural intermediaries, curating and sharing personal interpretations, histories, and collections of the band’s work through digital media.