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Philip Selway: Story of The Talented Drummer

The English music industry has produced a lot of talented musicians, and Philip Selway is one of them. Selway is a renowned English drummer who has left a lasting impact on the country’s music history.

With all his contributions, he is widely regarded as one of the best drummers the country has produced and is best known for his role as the drummer for the band Radiohead.

Beyond his drumming with Radiohead, Selway has also released a solo album, showcasing his versatility and musical talent.

This article will go into Philip Selway’s life and career and tell the story of the talented drummer who won the hearts of music fans all around the world.

Who is Philip Selway?

Philip Selway Preparing To Perform On The Stage
Philip Selway Preparing to Perform on The Stage

Philip Selwa, or Philip James Selway, was born on 23 May 1967 in Oxfordshire. He is a talented English musician known for his work with Radiohead.

He began his life-long passion for drumming at age 15, influenced by the sounds of Joy Division, The Clash, and the Velvet Underground.

In his early days, Selway had the opportunity to play drums at a gig, honing his skills and perfecting his craft. It was during his time at Abingdon School, the time where he also met the band Radiohead’s members, the guitarist Ed O’Brien, the singer Thom Yorke and the bassist Colin Greenwood.

Besides his successful career as a drummer, Philip has also had experiences as a TEFL teacher and a copywriter, as he studied English in college.

Philip Selway’s musical journey

Philip Selway Bringing I Love Fuv Sign
Philip Selway, photo via Flickr

Philip Selway officially started his career with the English rock band Radiohead. Formed in 1985 under the name On a Friday, Radiohead was signed to EMI in 1991. With the label, they released their first single, Creep, in 1992, propelling them to international fame.

They keep producing excellent songs year after year. However, with their fourth album, Kid A (2000), Radiohead began experimenting with drum machines and electronic sounds for their music, which quickly gained popularity with fans.

Selway has also contributed drums to artists outside the band, including singer Thom Yorke‘s third solo album, Anima (2019). In 2010, he had other ideas to have a solo career. Thus, he released his debut solo album, Familial, filled with acoustic instruments such as strings, guitars, and pianos.

In 2019, he and Radiohead emphasized their power in the industry by getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Currently, he is still active as Radiohead’s drummer. He has continued to play and tour with the band in The UK, including London and Cambridge, delighting fans and captivating audiences with his drumming skills.

Discography

Philip Selway Sings “Coming Up For Air”

Philip Selway is widely known for his work as the drummer for the legendary band Radiohead, but his solo discography is equally impressive.

He has released three solo studio albums, the first being Familia in 2010. This was followed by “Weatherhouse” in 2014 and the most recent, Strange Dance, in 2023. In addition to his solo work, Philip has also released soundtrack albums, including Let Me Go in 2017.

Each of these albums showcases Philip’s versatility and musical talent, with memorable songs that have been widely praised by fans and critics alike.

Final verdict

Philip Selway With 7 Worlds Collide
Philip Selway with 7 Worlds Collide

Philip Selway is a true talent in the world of music. His unique sound and style as a drummer have earned him a place as one of his generation’s most renowned English musicians.

Philip has continued to captivate audiences with his drumming and singing skills from his early performing days to his current role now, making him one of the drummers who sing in the industry. He has perfected his art over the years to become one of the most renowned musicians in the business.

The natural conclusion of this article is to celebrate the life and work of Philip Selway, a talented musician and member of one of the greatest bands in music history, Radiohead.

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Written by Andrea

Andrea is a music lover and an experienced drummer with more than 15 years of drumming with different bands and music projects, such as Seditius and Hermano & the Marines.

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