Ed O'Brien

Ed O'Brien
O'Brien in 2017
O'Brien in 2017
Background information
Birth nameEdward John O'Brien
Also known asEOB
Born (1968-04-15) 15 April 1968 (age 56)
Oxford, England
GenresAlternative rock, experimental rock, electronic
Occupations
  • Musician
  • songwriter
Instruments
  • Guitar
  • vocals
Years active1985–present
LabelsXL, TBD, Capitol
Member ofRadiohead
Formerly of7 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.