On this day June 15, 1987, Roger Waters released his second solo album Radio K.A.O.S. Following his departure from Pink Floyd, Waters continued to pursue ambitious concept driven work, and this album was no exception.
Radio K.A.O.S. reached number 50 on the Billboard charts and told the story of a disabled young man named Billy who could hear radio waves in his head and communicate through them. Through this narrative, Waters explored themes of technology, nuclear anxiety, politics and communication in the modern world. The album included tracks like Radio Waves, The Tide Is Turning and Who Needs Information.
Though the album received mixed reviews at the time, it has since gained appreciation for its storytelling and ambitious structure. It also showcased Waters’ ongoing interest in merging music with social commentary.
80s insight: Radio K.A.O.S. reflected a time when concept albums were still a way to make bold statements. In the 80s, Waters used his voice to challenge the world rather than simply entertain it.
Radio K.A.O.S. reached number 50 on the Billboard charts and told the story of a disabled young man named Billy who could hear radio waves in his head and communicate through them. Through this narrative, Waters explored themes of technology, nuclear anxiety, politics and communication in the modern world. The album included tracks like Radio Waves, The Tide Is Turning and Who Needs Information.
Though the album received mixed reviews at the time, it has since gained appreciation for its storytelling and ambitious structure. It also showcased Waters’ ongoing interest in merging music with social commentary.
80s insight: Radio K.A.O.S. reflected a time when concept albums were still a way to make bold statements. In the 80s, Waters used his voice to challenge the world rather than simply entertain it.
