The Who

Formed in 1964 from the remnants of a Mod scene outfit The Detours, The Who solidified with Roger Daltrey (vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar, songwriting), John Entwistle (bass) and Keith Moon (drums). They quickly stood out through explosive live shows marked by Moon’s unpredictable drumming and Townshend’s dramatic guitar-smashing. Early singles like “I Can’t Explain” gained them traction, and the band evolved from a singles-focused act into pioneers of ambitious long-form musical statements. In the late 1960s, they broke new ground with the rock opera “Tommy,” telling the story of a deaf, dumb and blind boy who becomes a spiritual and pop icon. Its critical and commercial success turned them into a global album-rock act and paved the way for theatrical rock storytelling. They followed up with “The Who Sell Out,” a playful concept album mimicking pirate radio with jingles and satire, showcasing their willingness to experiment beyond conventional songcraft. The early 1970s brought “Who’s Next,” featuring now-iconic tracks like “Baba O’Riley,” “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” and “Behind Blue Eyes.” These songs paired raw power with thoughtful melodies and showcased Townshend’s fascination with spiritual themes. In 1973 they delivered “Quadrophenia,” a deeply personal and ambitious exploration of youth and identity rooted in Mod culture. Critics hailed it for its emotional depth and structural inventiveness, earning its place among the greatest albums of its era. Keith Moon’s untimely death in 1978 brought a turning point; the album “Who Are You” became their final studio work with him, and the title track remains one of their signature hits. The band carried on with new drummer Kenney Jones through the early 1980s, releasing “Face Dances” and “It’s Hard,” before winding down. In the decades since, they celebrated their legacy through celebrated reunions, extensive touring, and prestigious honors like induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Kennedy Center Honors in 2008. Their influence spans genres, inspiring generations of rock musicians and fans around the globe.