The Who, one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 20th century, rose to fame in the swinging sixties. Formed in 1964 by a group of young musicians in London, the band quickly made a name for themselves with their explosive live performances and innovative music. In this article, we will explore the origins of the band, from their early days as a fledgling group to their rise to rock superstardom. We will delve into the unique chemistry between the band members, the creative influences that shaped their sound, and the groundbreaking albums and hit singles that made them legends. Join us as we embark on a journey through the rise of The Who and discover how they became one of the most beloved and enduring bands in rock history.
The Early Years: Formation and Early Gigs
The Roots of The Who
The Influence of Rock and Roll and American Culture on British Youth
In the mid-1950s, rock and roll music began to spread across the Atlantic Ocean, influencing British youth and changing the face of popular music. American artists such as Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard became idols for young people in the UK, inspiring them to take up instruments and form their own bands. The new sound of rock and roll represented a departure from the traditional music of the past, and it appealed to a generation that was looking for something new and exciting.
The Birth of British Rock and Roll
As rock and roll continued to gain popularity in the UK, a new generation of musicians began to emerge. Bands such as The Shadows, Cliff Richard and The Drifters, and Tommy Steele became household names, and they paved the way for a new wave of British rock and roll bands. These early bands were often influenced by American rock and roll, but they also incorporated elements of British folk music and other genres to create a unique sound that was all their own.
The Emergence of Mod Culture
In the mid-1960s, a new subculture known as “mod” began to emerge in the UK. Mods were young people who were passionate about fashion, music, and technology, and they were known for their love of fast motorcycles, sharp suits, and cutting-edge music. The mod scene was heavily influenced by American culture, and it played a significant role in shaping the sound and style of British rock and roll.
The Formation of The Who
The Who was formed in 1964 by a group of mod musicians who were inspired by the sounds of American rock and roll and the fashion and style of the mod scene. The original members of the band included Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon, and they were all passionate about creating a new kind of music that would capture the energy and excitement of the mod scene.
The Early Gigs and Early Recordings
The Who began playing gigs around London in the mid-1960s, and they quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative bands on the scene. They were known for their high-energy live performances, and they soon began to attract a dedicated following of fans who were drawn to their unique sound and style. In 1965, the band released their first single, “Zoot Suit,” which was a mod anthem that captured the spirit of the mod scene and helped to establish The Who as one of the most promising new bands in the UK.
The Making of My Generation: The First Album
The Creation of My Generation
The Writing and Recording Process
The creation of My Generation was a defining moment in The Who’s career. The band had been playing together for a few years, but it was this album that would catapult them to international fame. The writing and recording process was a collaborative effort between the band members, with Pete Townshend taking on the role of primary songwriter and Roger Daltrey contributing his vocals.
The band began recording the album in May 1965 at Pye Studios in London. Townshend was determined to create a sound that was unique to The Who, blending the raw energy of their live performances with the polished production of a studio album. He experimented with unconventional techniques, such as using a drum machine on “The Kids Are Alright” and playing guitar with a broken neck on “Out in the Street.”
The recording process was not without its challenges. The band was working with a limited budget and a tight deadline, and tensions began to rise as the sessions wore on. Despite these difficulties, they were able to capture the essence of their live show and create a sound that was both rebellious and infectious.
The Influence of American Music on My Generation
My Generation was heavily influenced by American music, particularly the soul and R&B sounds coming out of Detroit and Memphis. Townshend was a fan of artists like Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, and he incorporated their influences into the album’s sound.
The band also drew inspiration from the burgeoning counterculture movement in the United States. The song “My Generation” became an anthem for a generation of young people who were rebelling against the establishment and demanding change. The lyrics, which included lines like “I hope I die before I get old,” resonated with a generation of youth who felt disillusioned with the world around them.
The Album’s Impact on The Who’s Career
The release of My Generation in 1965 marked a turning point in The Who’s career. The album received critical acclaim and reached #8 on the UK album charts. The single “My Generation” became a hit, reaching #2 on the UK singles chart.
The success of the album propelled The Who to new heights of fame and allowed them to tour extensively throughout the UK and Europe. They became known for their energetic live performances, with Townshend’s windmill guitar technique and Daltrey’s powerful vocals becoming iconic symbols of the band’s sound.
My Generation cemented The Who’s status as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of the 1960s. It marked the beginning of a long and successful career that would see them become one of the most influential bands in rock history.
The Who’s Sound: A Unique Blend of Rock and Roll and Classical Music
The Influence of Classical Music on The Who’s Sound
The influence of classical music on The Who’s sound can be seen in the band’s use of orchestral instruments in their rock music, as well as the impact of rock and roll on classical music. The creation of The Who’s unique sound was a result of this blending of different musical genres.
- Use of Orchestral Instruments in Rock Music:
- The incorporation of orchestral instruments such as violins, cellos, and horns in rock music was a revolutionary move that set The Who apart from other rock bands of their time.
- This use of orchestral instruments added a new dimension to rock music, giving it a more dynamic and complex sound.
- The Who’s use of these instruments was not just for show, but also to create a sense of tension and release in their music.
- Influence of Rock and Roll on Classical Music:
- The influence of rock and roll on classical music can be seen in the way The Who incorporated elements of classical music into their rock sound.
- For example, the use of heavy bass and drums in their music was influenced by the rhythms of classical music.
- The use of feedback and distortion in their guitar sounds was also influenced by the sounds of classical music.
- Creation of The Who’s Unique Sound:
- The combination of these different musical influences led to the creation of The Who’s unique sound, which was a fusion of rock and roll and classical music.
- This fusion of musical genres was a bold move that set The Who apart from other rock bands of their time and helped to establish them as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 20th century.
The Who’s Impact on Rock and Roll: Pioneering a New Sound and Style
The Who’s Influence on Fashion and Style
The Who’s influence on fashion and style is a testament to their ability to shape not only the music industry but also popular culture as a whole. The band’s style was a reflection of the times, and they played a significant role in shaping the fashion trends of the era.
The Mod Look and The Who
The Mod look, which emerged in the UK in the mid-1960s, was characterized by a youthful, modern, and stylish aesthetic. The Who’s members, Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey, were known for their distinctive Mod style, which included tailored suits, sharp trousers, and pointy shoes. The band’s members were often seen wearing the latest fashions, and their on-stage attire influenced the fashion choices of many young people.
The Who’s Influence on British Youth
The Who’s impact on British youth was significant. The band’s music and style inspired a generation of young people to embrace a new sense of fashion and style. The Mod look, which was heavily influenced by The Who’s style, became a symbol of youth culture and a way for young people to express themselves.
The Impact of The Who’s Sound on the Music Industry
The Who’s impact on the music industry extended beyond their fashion and style. The band’s sound, which combined rock, pop, and a hint of punk, was a revolutionary new approach to music. Their use of feedback, distortion, and other sonic techniques helped to shape the sound of rock music for years to come. The Who’s impact on the music industry can still be felt today, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless bands and artists.
The Making of Tommy: A Rock Opera That Defined a Generation
The Creation of Tommy
The making of Tommy was a significant turning point in The Who’s career. The rock opera, which was released in 1969, marked a departure from the band’s earlier work and solidified their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their generation.
The creation of Tommy was a collaborative effort between the band members. Pete Townshend, The Who’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter, took on the role of musical director and oversaw the project. He drew inspiration from the works of William Blake and the story of Jesus Christ to create the storyline and lyrics for the rock opera.
The band spent several months in the studio recording the album, which was produced by Townshend and Kit Lambert, The Who’s manager and co-founder. The recording process was complex, with multiple overdubs and intricate instrumentation used to create the unique sound of the album.
The Influence of Orchestral Music on Tommy
One of the most striking aspects of Tommy is the use of orchestral music. The album features a full orchestra and choir, which was uncommon for a rock album at the time. Townshend was inspired by the works of composer Richard Strauss and wanted to incorporate orchestral elements into the band’s sound.
The use of orchestral music gave Tommy a cinematic quality and added depth to the storytelling. It also helped to elevate the band’s music to a new level of sophistication and artistry.
The Impact of Tommy on The Who’s Career
The release of Tommy was a pivotal moment in The Who’s career. The album was a critical and commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard album chart and spawning several hit singles. The rock opera also earned the band widespread acclaim and helped to establish them as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1960s.
Tommy also had a significant impact on The Who’s future work. The band continued to experiment with orchestral and classical elements in their music, incorporating them into later albums such as Quadrophenia and The Who’s Tommy.
Overall, the making of Tommy was a crucial turning point in The Who’s career. The rock opera marked a departure from their earlier work and helped to establish them as one of the most groundbreaking and influential bands of their generation.
The Death of Keith Moon: The End of an Era
The Legacy of Keith Moon
The death of Keith Moon in 1978 marked the end of an era for The Who. As the band’s original drummer, Moon was a key figure in shaping The Who’s sound and image during their formative years. His legacy can be seen in a number of ways, including the impact he had on the band’s sound, the influence he exerted on their image, and the lasting impact his death had on the band and their fans.
The Impact of Keith Moon on The Who’s Sound
Keith Moon was known for his energetic and innovative drumming style, which was a key component of The Who’s sound. His powerful and dynamic playing style added a unique element to the band’s music, and his creative use of drumming techniques helped to establish The Who’s distinctive sound. Moon’s innovative approach to drumming influenced many other musicians, and his contributions to The Who’s music continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
The Impact of Keith Moon on The Who’s Image
In addition to his contributions to the band’s sound, Keith Moon also played a significant role in shaping The Who’s image. His wild and unpredictable stage presence, combined with his flamboyant style and trademark glasses, helped to establish The Who’s iconic image as a rebellious and edgy band. Moon’s influence on the band’s image can be seen in the way that he inspired his bandmates to take risks and push boundaries, both on stage and in their personal lives.
The Aftermath of Keith Moon’s Death
The death of Keith Moon in 1978 was a shock to the music world, and it had a profound impact on The Who and their fans. The band struggled to come to terms with the loss of their drummer and friend, and it took them several years to recover from the tragedy. In the years that followed, The Who continued to make music, but they never quite recovered the same level of energy and creativity that they had during their early years with Keith Moon. Despite this, Moon’s legacy continued to inspire new generations of fans, and his influence on The Who’s music and image remains strong to this day.
The Who’s Later Years: Continuing to Push the Boundaries of Rock and Roll
The Later Years: A Time of Change and Growth
The later years of The Who’s career were marked by a time of change and growth. During this period, the band continued to evolve and push the boundaries of rock and roll music. Some of the significant events and developments that occurred during this time include:
The Addition of John Entwistle on Bass
In 1964, The Who added John Entwistle on bass guitar, and he quickly became an integral part of the band’s sound. Entwistle’s distinctive playing style and use of the bass as a lead instrument helped to establish The Who’s unique sound and set them apart from other bands of the time.
The Addition of Roger Daltrey on Lead Vocals
Also in 1964, The Who added Roger Daltrey on lead vocals, further solidifying the band’s lineup. Daltrey’s powerful voice and energetic stage presence added a new dimension to the band’s sound and helped to establish their reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic live acts of the time.
The Impact of Punk Rock on The Who
The late 1970s saw the rise of punk rock, which had a significant impact on The Who. While some of the band’s members were initially skeptical of the new genre, they eventually embraced it and incorporated elements of punk into their own music. This led to a renewed creative spark for the band and helped to keep their sound fresh and relevant.
The Making of Quadrophenia
In 1973, The Who released their concept album Quadrophenia, which tells the story of a young mod who struggles to find his place in society. The album was a critical and commercial success and is often cited as one of the band’s best works. The making of Quadrophenia was a challenging but rewarding experience for the band, and it helped to solidify their reputation as one of the most innovative and daring bands of the time.
The Making of The Who’s Next
In 1971, The Who released their album The Who’s Next, which features some of the band’s most iconic songs, including “Baba O’Riley” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” The making of this album was a challenging but rewarding experience for the band, and it helped to establish their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the time.
The Making of Face Dances
In 1981, The Who released their album Face Dances, which marked a new direction for the band. The album was a commercial success and featured some of the band’s most popular songs, including “You Better You Bet” and “Don’t Let Go the Coat.” The making of Face Dances was a challenging but rewarding experience for the band, and it helped to establish their reputation as one of the most enduring and influential bands of the time.
The Making of It’s Hard
In 1982, The Who released their album It’s Hard, which marked a new direction for the band. The album was a commercial success and featured some of the band’s most popular songs, including “Athena” and “Eminence Front.” The making of It’s Hard was a challenging but rewarding experience for the band, and it helped to establish their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the time.
The Making of Endless Wire
In 2006, The Who released their album Endless Wire, which marked a new direction for the band. The album was a critical and commercial success and featured some of the band’s most
FAQs
1. When was the Who band formed?
The Who band was formed in 1964 in London, England. The original members were Roger Daltrey (lead vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar, keyboards), John Entwistle (bass, brass), and Keith Moon (drums).
2. How did the band members meet?
Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend met while attending art school in London. John Entwistle and Keith Moon were already established musicians and were playing in separate bands at the time. They were introduced to Townshend and Daltrey through a mutual friend, and the four of them decided to form a band together.
3. What kind of music did the Who play in the beginning?
In the early days, the Who’s music was heavily influenced by R&B and rock and roll. They played a mix of original songs and covers, and their high-energy live performances quickly gained them a following in the London music scene.
4. How did the band get their name?
The band’s name was chosen by their manager, Peter Meaden, who wanted a short, catchy name that would be easy to remember. The word “who” was chosen because it was a common exclamation used in London at the time, and it fit with the band’s energetic, youthful image.
5. What was the band’s first single?
The Who’s first single, “Zoot Suit,” was released in 1964 on the Brunswick label. It was followed by several other singles, including “I’m a Boy” and “Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere.” The band’s early singles were popular in the UK and helped establish them as one of the hottest new acts in the British music scene.
6. How did the Who’s music evolve over time?
As the band’s career progressed, their music became more complex and experimental. Pete Townshend’s songwriting and guitar playing became more ambitious, and the band began to incorporate elements of rock, pop, and even orchestral music into their sound. Albums like “Tommy” and “Quadrophenia” showcased the band’s growth and artistic ambition.
7. What was the band’s biggest hit?
The Who’s biggest hit was “My Generation,” which was released in 1965. The song became an anthem for the burgeoning youth culture in the UK and around the world, and its powerful lyrics and iconic guitar riff have made it a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
8. What impact did the Who have on rock music?
The Who were one of the most influential bands of the 1960s and 1970s. Their high-energy live performances, innovative songwriting, and groundbreaking use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments helped to shape the sound and direction of rock music. Many later bands, including The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and Green Day, have cited the Who as an influence.
