Love Me Do tells the story of The Who, one of the greatest rock groups ever, with hits including My Generation, Pinball Wizard, Substitute and Baba O’Riley.
The Who are one of the most influential and enduring rock groups in the history of music. Emerging from London in the 1960s, they have left an indelible mark on rock and roll with their powerful performances, innovative music, and rebellious spirit. Here’s a potted history of The Who.
The Who: Early Years
The Who were formed in 1964 by Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon. The group members had been involved in various musical projects before coming together as The Who. They initially gained attention for their energetic live performances and their penchant for smashing their instruments on stage.
The group was known as The Detours and the High Numbers, before settling on The Who.
The Who’s Rise to Fame (1964-1969)
The Who’s breakthrough came with the release of their debut single, I Can’t Explain, in 1965. The song was a hit in the UK, reaching Number 8 in the charts, and set the stage for their rise to fame. Their debut LP, My Generation (1965), included the iconic title track, which became an anthem for the youth counterculture of the 1960s, with the single version making it to Number 2 in the charts.
The group’s follow-up LPs, A Quick One (1966) and The Who Sell Out (1967), showcased their evolving sound and experimentation with different musical styles. However, it was their 1969 rock opera Tommy that catapulted them to international fame. Tommy told the story of a deaf, dumb, and blind kid who becomes a pinball wizard and spiritual leader. The LP was a critical and commercial success, solidifying The Who’s status as rock innovators.
The movie version of Tommy, made by controversial director Ken Russell, included guest appearances by the likes of Elton John, Tina Turner, Eric Clapton and Jack Nicholson.
Creative Innovation and Studio Mastery (1969-1975)
The early 1970s were a period of creative innovation and studio mastery for The Who. Their 1971 LP Who’s Next is considered one of the greatest rock LPs of all time. It featured classics like Baba O’Riley and Won’t Get Fooled Again, showcasing the group’s powerful sound and sophisticated production techniques.
In 1973, The Who released their second rock opera, Quadrophenia. The LP explored themes of identity and disillusionment through the story of a young mod named Jimmy. Quadrophenia was another critical and commercial success, and it was later adapted into a film in 1979.
The Later Years and Tragedy (1975-1982)
The late 1970s saw The Who continue to release successful LPs and tour extensively. However, the group faced personal challenges and tragedy. In 1978, drummer Keith Moon passed away due to an overdose, leaving a void in the group. He was replaced by Kenney Jones, former drummer of The Small Faces.
Despite the loss, The Who continued to record and perform. Their 1978 LP Who Are You was a hit, with the title track becoming one of their signature songs. The group’s final LP with Jones, It’s Hard (1982), included the hit single Eminence Front.
Hiatus and Reunion (1983-Present)
The Who disbanded in 1983 but reunited several times for tours and special events. In 1989, they celebrated their 25th anniversary with a major tour and released a live LP, Join Together. The group continued to tour throughout the 1990s and 2000s, with various lineup changes.
In 2002, The Who faced another tragedy with the sudden death of bassist John Entwistle. Despite this loss, Daltrey and Townshend continued to perform as The Who, with Pino Palladino and Zak Starkey (Ringo Starr’s son) joining on bass and drums, respectively.
The group released their first studio LP in 24 years, Endless Wire, in 2006. The LP received positive reviews and marked a successful return to recording. In 2019, they released another LP, simply titled Who, which was also well-received by fans and critics alike.
The Who’s Legacy and Influence
The Who’s influence on rock music and popular culture is immense. Their powerful live performances, innovative use of feedback and power chords, and their ambitious concept LPs have inspired countless musicians and groups. Songs like My Generation, Baba O’Riley, and Won’t Get Fooled Again remain timeless anthems that continue to resonate with audiences.
The Who have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and have received numerous accolades for their contributions to music. Their legacy is celebrated through various documentaries, tributes, and live performances, ensuring that their music continues to inspire and captivate new generations of fans.
Conclusion
The Who’s journey from a London mod group to rock legends is a testament to their talent, resilience, and enduring appeal. With a career spanning over six decades, they have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll. Their innovative music, rebellious spirit, and powerful performances continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring that The Who remain an essential part of the rock music canon.
