The Who, a legendary rock band from the 1960s, are known for their explosive live performances and rock anthems and identified with the UK Mod movement. With Roger Daltrey's powerful vocals, Pete Townshend's dynamic guitar work, and Keith Moon's frenetic drumming, they created hits like "My Generation” "Baba O'Riley” and "Won't Get Fooled Again”. Their influence on rock music is profound, and they continue to perform and release new music, albeit with some changes in lineup.
The Who Career Highlights
1964:
Formation - The Who was formed in London, England, originally known as The Detours, with members Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon.
1965:
Breakthrough Single - Released "I Can't Explain” their first single to chart in the UK.
First Album - Released their debut album, "My Generation” featuring the iconic title track.
1967:
Concept Album - Released "The Who Sell Out” a concept album structured as a pirate radio broadcast.
1969:
Rock Opera - Released "Tommy” a groundbreaking rock opera that gained international acclaim and was later adapted into a film and stage production.
1971:
Classic Album - Released "Who's Next” featuring hits like "Baba O'Riley" and "Won't Get Fooled Again."
1973:
Quadrophenia - Released "Quadrophenia” another rock opera, which was later adapted into a film.
1978:
Keith Moon's Death - Drummer Keith Moon passed away from an overdose, marking a significant turning point for the band.
1979:
The Kids Are Alright - Released the documentary film "The Kids Are Alright” chronicling their career.
1983:
Initial Disbandment - The band announced their breakup after their "farewell" tour.
1996:
Reformation - Reformed for a tour of "Quadrophenia."
2006:
Endless Wire - Released their first album of new material in 24 years, "Endless Wire."
The Who Original Members
Pete Townshend – Guitar, Vocals
Roger Daltrey – Lead Vocals
John Entwistle – Bass, Vocals
Keith Moon – Drums
The Who Later Members
Kenney Jones – Drums (1979–1988)
Zak Starkey (Ringo’s son) – Drums (1996–present)
Pino Palladino – Bass (2002–2016)
Simon Townshend – Guitar, Vocals (1996–present)
The Who Grammy Awards
Despite their immense influence and critical acclaim, The Who has not won a Grammy Award. However, they received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.
3 Most Famous Songs by The Who
1. "My Generation" (1965)
- The anthem of a generation, known for its rebellious lyrics and innovative bass solo by John Entwistle.
2. "Baba O'Riley" (1971)
- Often referred to as "Teenage Wasteland” this song is known for its distinctive synthesizer riff and powerful lyrics.
3. "Won't Get Fooled Again" (1971)
- A classic rock staple featuring an iconic scream by Roger Daltrey and a famous guitar riff by Pete Townshend.
Quotes from The Who
Pete Townshend
I hope I die before I get old.
Roger Daltrey
We don't get too many second chances in life, and we didn't get a second chance as a band either.
Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Keith Moon's Wild Antics: Known for his destructive behavior, Keith Moon famously drove a car into a swimming pool and blew up hotel toilets with explosives.
- Pete Townshend's Legal Issues: In 2003, Townshend was arrested on charges related to child pornography but was later cleared, stating he was conducting research for a book on child abuse.
- Rock Opera Pioneers: The Who were pioneers of the rock opera genre with albums like "Tommy" and "Quadrophenia” influencing numerous bands and artists.
- Live Performances: Their live performances, including the famous 1969 Woodstock set and the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival, are considered some of the greatest in rock history.
- Innovative Techniques: The band was known for their use of feedback, power chords, and synthesizers, which influenced the sound of rock music.
The Who ratings
Gear: Fender Stratocaster Marshall Amplifier