Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood is in ‘intensive care’ following a significant illness.
The 52-year-old British musician, keyboardist and composer was touring as part of The Smile with fellow Radiohead singer Thom Yorke, plus Sons of Kemet drummer Tom Skinner.
He was then forced to cancel the supergroup’s European leg on Friday (July 11).
A statement from The Smile said Oxford-born Greenwood had been ‘seriously ill’ and would ‘soon return home’, but added doctors had advised he needed rest.
The band has confirmed all ticket holders will be refunded at the point of purchase.
A statement posted by The Smile on social media said: ‘A few days ago, Jonny became seriously ill from an infection that needed emergency hospital treatment, some of it in intensive care.
Some news from The Smile pic.twitter.com/ISwZIpjbAh
— The Smile (@thesmiletheband) July 12, 2024
‘Mercifully he is now out of danger and will soon return home.
‘We have been instructed by the medical team in charge of Jonny’s care to cancel all engagements until he has had time to make a full recovery.
‘To that end, the smile tour of Europe in August is cancelled.
‘Refunds for headline shows will be available from your Ticket provider.’
‘We all wish Jonny a speedy recovery,’ they concluded.
Following their announcement, fans and fellow musicians flocked to the replies to send Greenwood their well wishes.
‘Wishing Jonny a speedy recovery and sending well wishes for a return to performing ❤️’, commented Instagram user julia.tthm.
‘Scary post to wake up to. Get well soon Jonny 🥺!!’, said kchabolla.
‘Sending nothing but healing vibes and positive energy to one of my favourite musicians and humans of all time. Get well soon Jonny!!!! ❤❤’, commented barcles_d.
The Smile has released two UK top 10 albums, titled A Light For Attracting Attention and Wall Of Eyes.
Their sound has been compared to Radiohead but with more of an influence from Krautrock, a form of German experimental music, and jazz.
The band was set to play venues in Switzerland, Sweden, Germany and Poland next month.
Meanwhile, last month Radiohead was at the centre of backlash after performing in Israel, with fans accusing them of ‘artwashing the Gaza genocide’.
Having shared the stage with Israeli-Arabic rock star Dudu Tassa at the Barby Club in Tel Aviv, The Smile received criticism from Palestinian activists.
Boycott, Divestment & Sanctions (BDS) which supports Gazans against Israel’s government, blasted the performance as ‘shameful’, calling for their supporters to protest against Radiohead’s upcoming European tour.
Speaking out, however, Greenwood denied the ‘artwashing’ allegations, stating that their gig in Tel Aviv featured many Arabic love songs from their 2023 album.
He said it was designed to promote harmony between Israel and Palestine.
As well as being a member of Radiohead and The Smile, Greenwood has earned Oscar nominations as a film composer.
His movies include the Princess Diana-inspired Spencer, The Phantom Thread, There Will Be Blood, and The Power of the Dog.
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