**Street Spirit (Fade Out)**
**Definition:**
„Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is a song by the English alternative rock band Radiohead, released as the final single from their second studio album, *The Bends* (1995). Known for its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, the track has been widely acclaimed for its emotional depth and atmospheric sound.
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## Street Spirit (Fade Out)
„Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is a song by Radiohead, featured on their 1995 album *The Bends*. Released as the album’s final single in 1996, the song stands out for its melancholic tone, intricate guitar work, and evocative lyrics. It has since become one of Radiohead’s most celebrated tracks, often noted for its emotional intensity and artistic music video.
### Background and Writing
Following the success of their debut album *Pablo Honey* (1993), Radiohead sought to expand their musical style and lyrical themes on *The Bends*. „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” was written during this period of artistic growth. The song was primarily composed by lead vocalist and guitarist Thom Yorke, who has described it as one of the most emotionally challenging songs he has written.
The inspiration behind „Street Spirit” is often interpreted as a reflection on despair and the inevitability of suffering. Yorke has mentioned in interviews that the song was influenced by a sense of hopelessness and the darker aspects of human experience, though he has also emphasized the importance of confronting these feelings rather than succumbing to them.
### Composition and Style
Musically, „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is characterized by its repetitive, arpeggiated guitar riff, which creates a hypnotic and somber atmosphere. The song is set in a minor key, contributing to its melancholic mood. The arrangement is relatively sparse, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
The track features layered guitars, subtle bass lines, and restrained drumming, which together build a sense of tension and release. Thom Yorke’s vocal delivery is plaintive and urgent, conveying a mixture of vulnerability and resignation. The song’s structure is straightforward, with verses and choruses that emphasize the cyclical nature of the themes explored in the lyrics.
### Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” are poetic and open to interpretation, but they generally explore themes of despair, mortality, and the search for meaning in the face of suffering. The recurring phrase „fade out again” suggests a sense of fading away or losing oneself, which resonates with the song’s overall mood.
Some interpretations view the song as a meditation on the inevitability of death and the transient nature of life. Others see it as a commentary on emotional pain and the struggle to find hope amid darkness. The ambiguity of the lyrics allows listeners to connect with the song on a personal level, making it a powerful and enduring piece in Radiohead’s catalog.
### Release and Reception
„Street Spirit (Fade Out)” was released as a single in May 1996, following the earlier singles from *The Bends* such as „High and Dry” and „Fake Plastic Trees.” The single was issued in various formats, including CD and vinyl, and featured B-sides that included live recordings and alternate versions of other songs from the album.
The song received critical acclaim upon release, with many reviewers praising its emotional depth and musical sophistication. It was noted for its departure from the more radio-friendly rock of *Pablo Honey*, showcasing Radiohead’s evolution toward a more complex and introspective sound.
Commercially, „Street Spirit” performed well in the UK, reaching the top 30 on the singles chart. It has since become a fan favorite and is frequently included in Radiohead’s live performances.
### Music Video
The music video for „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” was directed by Jonathan Glazer, who would later become known for his work on other Radiohead videos and feature films. The video is notable for its striking black-and-white cinematography and surreal imagery.
Filmed in a desert setting, the video features slow-motion shots of the band members and various symbolic visuals, such as animals and natural elements, which complement the song’s themes of decay and transformation. The video’s artistic approach has been widely praised and is considered one of the band’s most iconic visual representations.
### Legacy and Influence
Over the years, „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” has maintained its status as one of Radiohead’s most beloved songs. It is often cited by critics and fans alike as a highlight of *The Bends* and a precursor to the band’s later experimental work.
The song’s influence can be seen in the way it helped establish Radiohead’s reputation for blending emotional intensity with innovative musical techniques. It has been covered by various artists and remains a staple in alternative rock playlists.
In live performances, „Street Spirit” is known for its powerful impact, often eliciting strong emotional responses from audiences. The band has performed the song in numerous tours, sometimes extending or altering the arrangement to enhance its atmospheric qualities.
### Track Listings (Single Release)
The single release of „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” included several B-sides and live tracks, which varied by region and format. Commonly included tracks were:
– „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” (Album Version)
– „The Bends” (Live)
– „My Iron Lung” (Live)
– „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” (Live)
These additional tracks provided fans with a glimpse of Radiohead’s live sound during the *The Bends* era and showcased the band’s evolving musicianship.
### Personnel
– Thom Yorke – vocals, guitar
– Jonny Greenwood – guitar, keyboard
– Ed O’Brien – guitar, backing vocals
– Colin Greenwood – bass guitar
– Philip Selway – drums
Produced by John Leckie, the production of „Street Spirit (Fade Out)” emphasized clarity and atmosphere, allowing the song’s emotional nuances to resonate.
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**Meta Description:**
„Street Spirit (Fade Out)” is a haunting and introspective song by Radiohead from their 1995 album *The Bends*. Known for its melancholic melody and evocative lyrics, it remains one of the band’s most acclaimed tracks.