The Who is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, known for their explosive live performances, innovative songwriting, and distinctive sound. From their early days as mod rockers to their later work as progressive rock pioneers, The Who have left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
Choosing the 10 best songs from their extensive discography is no easy task, as they have produced numerous hits and timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences to this day.
Nevertheless, after considering critical acclaim, commercial success, and cultural impact, we have compiled a list of The Who’s 10 best songs of all time. These songs represent the band’s range, creativity, and enduring legacy, and are a testament to their enduring influence on the rock music genre.
1. Baba O’Riley
“Baba O’Riley” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who. It was released in 1971 as the opening track of their album “Who’s Next”. The song features an iconic synthesizer riff that is instantly recognizable and has become a staple of rock music. The lyrics were written by Pete Townshend and are about teenage rebellion, youth culture, and the power of music to bring people together. The title is a tribute to Meher Baba, an Indian spiritual leader, and Terry Riley, an American minimalist composer. The song builds in intensity, with explosive drums and guitar solos, leading up to the anthemic chorus of “Teenage wasteland, it’s only teenage wasteland
2. Won’t Get Fooled Again
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1971 as the final track on their album “Who’s Next”. The song features a powerful combination of hard rock riffs, synthesizer effects, and Roger Daltrey’s impassioned vocals. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics are a scathing critique of political revolution and the cyclical nature of history, ending with the famous line “Meet the new boss, same as the old boss”. The song’s iconic keyboard solo and explosive finale have made it a staple of rock radio and live performances. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been used in various movies, TV shows, and commercials.
3. My Generation
“My Generation” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1965 as their debut single and the title track of their first album. The song features a driving rhythm, staccato guitar riffs, and Roger Daltrey’s defiant vocals, all combining to capture the youthful rebellion and frustration of the era. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express the disaffection of a generation that felt disconnected from the older generation’s values and traditions. The song’s famous line “I hope I die before I get old” has become a rallying cry for youth culture and a symbol of rock rebellion.
4. Behind Blue Eyes
“Behind Blue Eyes” is a classic rock ballad by the British band The Who, released in 1971 as a single from their album “Who’s Next”. The song features a haunting melody, acoustic guitar, and Roger Daltrey’s emotive vocals, which convey a sense of vulnerability and longing. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics explore the inner turmoil and pain of a person who appears strong on the outside but is struggling internally. The song’s chorus, “No one knows what it’s like to be the bad man, to be the sad man behind blue eyes”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and poignant lyrics.
5. Pinball Wizard
“Pinball Wizard” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1969 as a single and featured in their rock opera “Tommy”. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy melody, and a memorable guitar riff, all culminating in a blistering guitar solo. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics tell the story of a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who becomes a pinball champion. The song’s chorus, “He’s a pinball wizard, there has to be a twist”, has become one of rock music’s most iconic lines.
6. The Seeker
“The Seeker” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1970 as a single and later included on their album “Meaty Beaty Big and Bouncy”. The song features a fast-paced rhythm, driving bassline, and a catchy guitar riff, all combined with Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express the restlessness and search for meaning that many people experience in their lives. The song’s chorus, “I’m a seeker, I’m a really desperate man”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and anthemic lines.
7 Substitute
“Substitute” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1966 as a single and later included on their album “Meaty Beaty Big and Bouncy”. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy melody, and a distinctive guitar riff, all combined with Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express the frustration and disillusionment that many people experience in their lives. The song’s chorus, “I’m a substitute for another guy”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and relatable lines.
8. Love, Reign o’er Me
“Love, Reign o’er Me” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1973 as a single and later included on their album “Quadrophenia”. The song features a haunting melody, dramatic orchestration, and Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals, all combined to create a sense of emotional intensity and catharsis. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express the protagonist’s search for redemption and hope in the face of despair and isolation. The song’s chorus, “Love, reign o’er me, rain on me”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and moving lines.
9. I Can See for Miles
Can See for Miles” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1967 as a single and later included on their album “The Who Sell Out”. The song features a driving rhythm, explosive guitar riffs, and Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals, all combined to create a sense of raw energy and excitement. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express a sense of confidence and bravado, with the protagonist claiming that he can see farther than anyone else. The song’s chorus, “I can see for miles and miles and miles”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and anthemic lines.
10. Who Are You
“Who Are You” is a classic rock song by the British band The Who, released in 1978 as a single and later included on their album of the same name. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals, all combined to create a sense of urgency and introspection. Written by Pete Townshend, the lyrics express a sense of confusion and identity crisis, with the protagonist questioning his place in the world. The song’s chorus, “Who are you? Who, who, who, who?”, has become one of rock music’s most memorable and recognizable lines.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
