Ed O'Brien | |
|---|---|
 O'Brien in 2017 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Edward John O'Brien |
| Also known as | EOB |
| Born | 15 April 1968 Oxford, England |
| Genres | Alternative rock, experimental rock, electronic |
| Occupations |
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| Instruments |
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| Years active | 1985–present |
| Labels | XL, TBD, Capitol |
| Member of | Radiohead |
| Formerly of | 7 Worlds Collide |
Edward John O'Brien (born 15 April 1968) is an English guitarist, songwriter and member of the rock band Radiohead. He releases solo music under the name EOB.
O'Brien attended Abingdon School in Oxfordshire, England, where he formed Radiohead with schoolmates. O'Brien said his role was to "service the songs" and support the songwriter, Thom Yorke. He often creates ambient sounds and textures, using effects, sustain units and the EBow, and provides backing vocals.
With musicians including the Radiohead drummer, Philip Selway, O'Brien toured and recorded with the 7 Worlds Collide project in the 2000s. His first solo album, Earth, was released in 2020. O'Brien had been writing songs for years, but lacked confidence and felt they had a character that would be lost with Radiohead. He began a North American tour in February 2020; a larger tour was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rolling Stone named O'Brien among the greatest guitarists of all time in 2010 and 2023. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Radiohead in 2019.