The Who

From the adolescent rage of “My Generation” to the multi-textured rock operas Tommy and Quadraphenia, the Who (Pete Townshend: guitar, Roger Daltrey: vocals, John Entwistle: bass and Keith Moon: drums) blasted the rock scene with power chords, keyboards, strutting vocals, mini-operas and violent onstage destruction derbies. Having known each other since the late ’50s in and around London, the Who formed in 1964 and went to #2 in England with their second single (“My Generation”). “Happy Jack” made inroads for the Who in the U.S. and culminated with an appearance by the band at the Monterey Pop Festival.

The Who Sell Out brought the band their first Top 10 hit in the U.S. with “I Can See For Miles,” and, in 1970, Tommy made its U.S. debut at the the Metropolitan Opera House. “Pinball Wizard” became a hit, bolstering the popularity of this odd tale of a deaf, dumb and blind boy who becomes a champion pinball player/messiah. In 1975, director Ken Russell directed a film version which included Tina Turner as the Acid Queen and Elton John singing "Pinball Wizard.” Lead singer Roger Daltrey appeared in the film and went on to play Franz Liszt in Russell’s next film, Usztomania.

The early ’70s gave rock a staple of Who classics, including “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” and encouraged Townshend to write Quadrophenia, a tribute to the “tortured inner life of the Mods.” It was also made into a film (with Sting in a nonspeaking role). The late ’70s and early ’80s gave some credence to the criticism that the Who had made their mark and lost their vigor and influence. With the death of drummer Keith Moon in 1978, Kenney Jones (Small Faces) was brought in as a replacement and keyboardist John Bundrick began working with the new line-up. But it was not to last, and the Who closed shop. While Daltrey and Townshend have released good solo albums, no one has ruled out further concerts and recording projects in the future.