The Who is a band that has been captivating audiences for decades with their energetic performances and powerful music. Formed in the 1960s, the band quickly rose to fame with hits like “My Generation” and “Pinball Wizard.” But what happened to the band after their initial success? This article will explore the fascinating story of The Who, from their rise to fame to their ongoing legacy. Join us as we take a journey through time and explore the highs and lows of this iconic band.
The Origins of The Who
The Early Years of Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey
The Beginnings of The Who
Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey met in the early 1960s when they were both working as roadies for a band called The Detours. They quickly became friends and started playing music together, eventually forming The Who in 1964. The band’s early performances were mostly at small clubs and venues in London, but they quickly gained a following and started to make a name for themselves in the burgeoning British music scene.
Formation and Early Performances
Pete Townshend was the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, while Roger Daltrey was the lead vocalist and guitarist. They were joined by bassist John Entwistle and drummer Keith Moon, who would become key members of the band’s lineup over the years. In the early days, The Who were known for their high-energy live performances and their innovative use of instruments, including Townshend’s trademark windmilling guitar style.
Developing Their Sound and Style
The Who’s early sound was heavily influenced by American R&B and rock and roll, with Townshend’s songs often incorporating themes of teenage rebellion and social commentary. Their early hits, such as “I Can’t Explain” and “My Generation,” showcased their raw energy and youthful rebellion, while also displaying their growing musical prowess.
The Rise to Fame
My Generation and Other Hits
The Who’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 1960s, and they released several critically acclaimed albums, including “My Generation” and “A Quick One.” These albums helped establish them as one of the most influential and innovative bands of the era, and their songs became anthems for a generation of young people.
Concerts and Live Performances
The Who were known for their energetic and explosive live performances, and they quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting bands on the British music scene. They played countless concerts and festivals throughout the 1960s, often performing songs that would become classics of the era, such as “Pinball Wizard” and “Baba O’Riley.”
The Who’s Iconic Albums
Tommy and the Rock Opera Craze
The Concept and Inspiration Behind Tommy
Tommy, The Who’s 1969 rock opera, marked a turning point in the band’s career and significantly impacted the music industry. The concept and inspiration behind Tommy were unique and multifaceted, showcasing the band’s innovative approach to music.
Creating a Rock Opera
Tommy was inspired by Pete Townshend’s life experiences and his exploration of different musical styles. The album’s narrative revolves around a deaf, dumb, and blind boy named Tommy, who becomes a pinball champion and eventually gains a massive following. The story touches on themes of rebellion, disillusionment, and spiritual awakening, reflecting the tumultuous social climate of the late 1960s.
Critical Acclaim and Commercial Success
Tommy was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many critics praising the album’s innovative concept and impressive musicianship. The album reached number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and number 28 on the US Billboard 200, showcasing its commercial success.
The Impact of Tommy on the Music Industry
Tommy’s impact on the music industry was profound, as it paved the way for the rock opera craze of the 1970s. The album’s unique blend of rock, pop, and theatrical elements inspired numerous other rock operas, such as Quadrophenia and The Wall. Tommy also marked a turning point in The Who’s career, cementing their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their generation.
The Who’s Next and the Legacy of Keith Moon
The Making of The Who’s Next
The making of The Who’s Next was a pivotal moment in the band’s history, as it marked a turning point in their sound and style. The album was a departure from their earlier work, featuring more introspective and personal lyrics, as well as a more mature and sophisticated musical approach. One of the key factors in this evolution was the influence of Keith Moon, The Who’s legendary drummer.
The Influence of Keith Moon
Keith Moon was known for his energetic and innovative drumming style, which helped to shape The Who’s sound and set them apart from other bands of their era. His playing was characterized by its power and precision, and he was known for his ability to add a sense of drama and excitement to the band’s music. On The Who’s Next, Moon’s influence can be heard in the complex rhythms and dynamic drumming that underpin many of the album’s tracks.
Recording and Releasing the Album
The recording of The Who’s Next was a long and difficult process, as the band struggled to find the right sound and balance between their different musical elements. They worked closely with producer and engineer Glyn Johns, who helped to capture the band’s raw energy and translate it into a polished and professional recording. The album was finally released in 1971, and it was an instant success, reaching the top of the charts in the UK and US and cementing The Who’s status as one of the most important and influential bands of their generation.
The Legacy of Keith Moon
Keith Moon’s legacy within The Who is immense, and his influence can be heard in the band’s music to this day. His unique and innovative drumming style helped to shape the band’s sound and set them apart from their peers, and his contributions to The Who’s Next in particular are a testament to his talent and creativity. Moon’s impact on the band’s sound can be heard in the complex rhythms and dynamic drumming that underpin many of the album’s tracks, and his influence can be seen in the band’s ongoing legacy and continued popularity.
The Tragedy of Keith Moon
The Unraveling of Keith Moon
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Struggles
The decline of Keith Moon’s health was a direct result of his substance abuse and mental health struggles. He had become increasingly reliant on drugs and alcohol, which took a toll on his physical and mental well-being. His addiction to tranquilizers, in particular, led to a series of health problems that would eventually claim his life.
The Toll on Keith Moon’s Health
As Moon’s addiction progressed, his health began to deteriorate rapidly. He suffered from severe stomach pain, which doctors attributed to his excessive consumption of alcohol. However, it was later discovered that the pain was caused by a perforated ulcer, which was exacerbated by his addiction to tranquilizers. Despite this, Moon continued to abuse these drugs, which only worsened his condition.
The Impact on The Who
Moon’s addiction and declining health had a profound impact on The Who as a band. His erratic behavior and frequent absences from rehearsals and performances caused tension within the group. They struggled to find a replacement for Moon’s unique drumming style, which added to their frustration. Ultimately, Moon’s unraveling had a devastating effect on the band’s dynamics and their ability to create music together.
Keith Moon’s Final Years and Death
Keith Moon, the charismatic and flamboyant drummer of The Who, was known for his explosive stage presence and unconventional drumming style. However, as the 1970s drew to a close, Moon’s personal life began to unravel, and his behavior became increasingly erratic.
Health Problems and Addiction
During this period, Moon struggled with a number of health issues, including a severe addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs. Despite the concerns of his bandmates and friends, he continued to abuse these substances, leading to a decline in his physical and mental health.
The Final Concert with The Who
On December 4, 1978, The Who played their final concert with Keith Moon at the Shepperton Studios in London. The show was a disaster, with Moon appearing disoriented and disheveled on stage. He struggled to keep up with the rest of the band, and at one point, he even collapsed during a performance.
The Show Must Go On
Despite the obvious problems with Moon’s health, the show went on as planned. The other members of The Who were determined to finish the tour, and they refused to cancel any of the remaining concerts. This decision would later be criticized as a factor in Moon’s tragic death.
The Aftermath of Keith Moon’s Death
On September 7, 1978, just months after the final concert, Keith Moon died from an overdose of hemorrhagic glaucoma, a rare eye condition that had been exacerbated by his drug addiction. His death was a shock to the music world, and it marked the end of an era for The Who.
The Continuation of The Who
Life After Keith Moon
Adapting to New Sounds and Styles
The untimely demise of Keith Moon in 1978 marked a significant turning point in The Who’s journey. With the loss of their dynamic drummer, the band had to navigate new musical territories and redefine their sound. They faced the challenge head-on by embracing new sounds and styles, incorporating synthesizers and electronic instruments into their music.
Embracing Synthesizers and Electronic Instruments
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, synthesizers and electronic instruments began to gain popularity in the music industry. Bands like Genesis and Yes had already begun to incorporate these sounds into their music, and The Who decided to follow suit. The addition of synthesizers allowed the band to create a more experimental and avant-garde sound, pushing the boundaries of their music.
The Influence of Punk and New Wave
The punk and new wave movements of the late 1970s also had a significant impact on The Who’s music. These genres represented a rejection of the overblown, self-indulgent rock of the 1970s, and The Who responded by embracing a more stripped-down, energetic sound. They drew inspiration from the raw, energetic style of punk and incorporated elements of new wave into their music, resulting in a revitalized and refreshed sound.
Despite the challenges they faced, The Who continued to push the boundaries of rock music, remaining true to their core sound while incorporating new elements and styles. Their adaptability and willingness to evolve allowed them to maintain their relevance and continue to produce critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1980s and beyond.
The Who in the 21st Century
Enduring Legacy and Influence
The Who has continued to maintain its enduring legacy and influence well into the 21st century. Despite the passing of several decades since the band’s heyday, The Who remains a beloved and influential force in the world of rock music.
Continuing to Inspire New Generations
One of the most remarkable aspects of The Who’s legacy is its ability to continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. Many contemporary bands have cited The Who as an influence, and their music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Reunion Tours and Performances
In recent years, The Who has embarked on several high-profile reunion tours, which have drawn huge crowds and critical acclaim. These tours have featured classic lineups of the band, including the legendary guitarist Pete Townshend and lead vocalist Roger Daltrey.
The Passing of Roger Daltrey’s Microphone
However, in 2016, The Who’s lead vocalist Roger Daltrey announced that he would be retiring from singing, which raised questions about the future of the band. Despite this setback, The Who has continued to perform and tour, with other vocalists taking on the role of lead singer for select performances.
The Future of The Who
The future of The Who remains uncertain, but the band’s enduring legacy and influence ensure that they will continue to be a significant force in the world of rock music for years to come. Whether they will continue to tour and perform with new vocalists or retire entirely remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: The Who’s music will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
Honoring the Band’s Legacy
In recognition of The Who’s enduring legacy, various events and tributes have been held to honor the band’s contributions to rock music. These events have included special concerts, exhibitions, and documentaries, all aimed at celebrating the band’s contributions to the genre and its enduring influence on popular culture.
FAQs
1. What happened to The Who band?
The Who is a rock band that was formed in London in 1964. The band consisted of Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon. The band is known for their live performances and their contributions to rock music. Over the years, the band has gone through various changes and challenges, but they have continued to record and perform music.
2. When did The Who disband?
The Who disbanded in 1982, following the death of their drummer, Keith Moon. Moon died on September 7, 1978, and his death had a profound impact on the band. After Moon’s death, the band continued to record and perform, but they eventually disbanded in 1982.
3. Have The Who ever reformed?
Yes, The Who have reformed several times over the years. The band first reformed in 1989, without their original drummer, Keith Moon, who had died in 1978. The band then reunited again in 2000, and they have continued to perform and record music together since then.
4. What happened to the members of The Who?
After The Who disbanded in 1982, the members of the band pursued various projects and interests. Pete Townshend continued to record and perform as a solo artist, and he also wrote music for films and stage productions. Roger Daltrey also pursued a solo career, and he also formed a new band called The Circus. John Entwistle and Keith Moon both died in the 1970s, but their legacy lives on through their music and their contributions to rock music.
5. What is The Who’s most famous song?
The Who’s most famous song is probably “My Generation,” which was released in 1965. The song became an anthem for the youth culture of the time, and it remains one of The Who’s most popular and enduring songs. Other famous songs by The Who include “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”
