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The Who is a legendary British rock band formed in London in 1964. The original lineup consisted of Roger Daltrey (lead vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar, vocals), John Entwistle (bass, vocals), and Keith Moon (drums). They are widely regarded as one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century, known for their powerful live performances and pioneering contributions to the rock genre.
Their early hits, such as “My Generation” (1965), captured the rebellious spirit of the 1960s youth culture. The Who gained further acclaim with their rock operas “Tommy” (1969) and “Quadrophenia” (1973), which showcased Townshend’s ambitious songwriting and the band’s dynamic musical style. “Tommy” was particularly groundbreaking, telling a coherent story through rock music and later being adapted into a film and a Broadway musical.
Throughout the 1970s, The Who released several iconic albums, including “Who’s Next” (1971) and “The Who By Numbers” (1975), featuring classics like “Baba O’Riley,” “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” and “Behind Blue Eyes.” Their ability to blend powerful rock anthems with introspective ballads solidified their place in rock history.
The band faced a significant setback with the death of drummer Keith Moon in 1978. They continued to produce music with drummer Kenney Jones but never fully recaptured their earlier magic. Despite various lineup changes and periods of inactivity, The Who has continued to perform and release new music, with Townshend and Daltrey remaining as the core members.
The Who’s influence on rock music is immense, impacting countless artists and shaping the development of rock music with their innovative sound, energetic performances, and thematic albums. Their legacy endures as one of the greatest and most impactful bands in the history of rock music.