THE WHO: Part 5
Penniless Popstars
“The Who are the most exciting thing around.”
Paul McCartney made that statement to the press in the summer of 1965. The Who’s new single, their approach to fashion and their pontificating in the press were all a challenge to the status quo…But trouble would soon be brewing.
The story of The Who is a roller coaster ride of highs and lows. In 1965 they finally had chart success. Their ability to be different and make outrageous statements to the press got them plenty of media coverage and prompted two European tours. But crazy twists of fate prevented the band from being “who” they were on both tours and fans were
vocal about their disappointment. The pressures of life on the road was medicated by pills and this lead to other challenges within the band. The experiences almost shattered The Who and it was a broken band that would end the year by recording “just about the grandest statement pop had ever made.”
The Who-Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts is a continuing series so if you haven’t heard Part 4 you may want to listen to Snakes & Ladders first.
QuikHits
A Rock Fashion Icon
Pete Townshend takes a Kit Lambert idea and creates a classic Rock fashion icon that is still being copied by musicians today.
The Lambert & Stamp Factor
These two guys would have an indelible impact on The Who.
Maximum R&B at The Marquee
How The Who attracted an audience to The Marquee for gigs that would become legendary.
Lighting Up the City of Light
The Who play their first gigs outside of the UK in Paris in 1965.
A Sonic Assault
An early Who live show could be a frightening experience for the uninitiated.
My Generation
Hard to believe this youth anthem was ever considered lightweight!
The Real Me
Releasing his natural curls transformed Roger from lead singer to Rock Icon.