In 2004, after their world tour for Hail to the Thief (2003), Radiohead went on hiatus, having fulfilled their contract with EMI and being under no obligation to release new material. Drummer Philip Selway stated the band still wanted to create music but needed a break to focus on other aspects of their lives. The New York Times labeled Radiohead as "by far the world's most popular unsigned band."

In 2005, lead singer Thom Yorke performed future In Rainbows tracks "Videotape," "Down is the New Up," and "Last Flowers" on the web series From the Basement. He released his first solo album, The Eraser, in 2006. Lead guitarist Jonny Greenwood also composed his first solo works, including the soundtracks for Bodysong (2004) and There Will Be Blood (2007).