Who Is Ed O'Brien? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ed O'Brien, born on April 15, 1968, is currently 56 years old. Known for his distinctive guitar playing and ethereal vocals, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Radiohead since its formation in 1995. O'Brien's influence extends beyond the band, as he has also ventured into solo projects and collaborations, cementing his legacy in contemporary music.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 15, 1968 |
| Age | 57 Years |
| Birth Place | Oxford, England |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | England |
Popularity
Ed O'Brien's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm), Ed O'Brien exudes a charismatic stage presence. His weight is approximately 165 pounds (75 kg), and while specific body measurements are not publicly available, his lean physique complements his active lifestyle and rigorous touring schedule.
In 2020, O'Brien said his role in Radiohead was to "service the songs" and support Yorke. He said: "I've always been like his older brother ... I always say that he was like the dad of the band and I'm the mum. My job was to always put my arm around him, and his job was to be Thom." Radiohead's producer, Nigel Godrich, described O'Brien as "very much a diplomat".
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his career, Ed O'Brien has been relatively private about his personal life. He is married to his long-time partner, who has remained out of the public eye. The couple has two children, and Ed often shares insights into his family life, balancing the responsibilities of being a father with his demanding music career. As of 2025, there is no publicly known boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife other than his spouse.
His family comes from Ballyporeen, Ireland. As a child, O'Brien enjoyed cricket and theatre. His parents separated when he was 10; O'Brien said this was when music became his "refuge". He grew up listening to post-punk acts such as Siouxsie and the Banshees, Adam and the Ants, Depeche Mode, the Police and David Bowie.
He said: "It was a very foetal [time] for music because people who went to art college or artists, or musicians, suddenly thought, 'Oh, I can be that.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Ed O'Brien's net worth is estimated to be around $50 million. His earnings primarily stem from his successful music career with Radiohead, which has sold millions of albums worldwide. Additionally, his solo projects and various musical collaborations contribute to his substantial income, making him one of the wealthiest musicians in the industry.
Career, Business and Investments
Ed O'Brien's career has seen tremendous success since the inception of Radiohead. The band gained prominence in the 1990s with their groundbreaking album "OK Computer," which redefined alternative rock. O'Brien's innovative guitar work and keen sense of melody have been essential to the band's distinctive sound.
In recent years, he has pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album "Earth," which received critical acclaim and showcased his versatility as a musician. O'Brien is also involved in various business ventures and investments, including music production and collaborations that support emerging artists.
In 2020, O'Brien contributed to Ear Opener, an online video course aimed at helping young people write music. That November, he gave evidence to a DCMS Committee inquiry into the impact of streaming on the music industry. He said he wanted to speak for less successful artists, who he felt were exploited.
In February 2025, O'Brien spoke about climate change at São Paulo International Music Week. O'Brien was one of more than 1,000 musicians to support Is This What We Want?, an album of silence released on 25 February protesting the use of unlicensed copyrighted work to train AI.
O'Brien has criticised Israel following the outbreak of the Gaza war and expressed supported for Palestinians, calling for the release of hostages and a ceasefire.
Social Network
Ed O'Brien maintains a presence on various social media platforms, where he connects with fans and shares insights into his music and personal life. He is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, offering glimpses of his artistic endeavors and promoting causes he is passionate about. His followers appreciate his authenticity and dedication to his craft.
The members of Radiohead met while attending Abingdon School, an independent school for boys in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. While O'Brien was playing Lysander in a school production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, he met Thom Yorke, who was scoring the production. Yorke asked him to join him for a jam.
According to O'Brien, "Before that, [life] was a bit confusing, a bit crap. And then suddenly ... I felt something very strong, almost like some kind of epiphany, almost like: 'This is it.
Education
Ed O'Brien attended several educational institutions, including King’s College, London, where he studied English. This background not only informs his songwriting but also reflects his deep appreciation for literature and the arts. His academic journey laid a solid foundation for his illustrious career in music.
In conclusion, Ed O'Brien remains a vital part of the music scene in 2025. With a rich biography, thriving career, and dedicated family life, he continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the globe. Whether through his work with Radiohead or his solo projects, O'Brien's contributions to music are both significant and enduring.
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.
