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Band Timeline
1964
Formation of The Who
The Who, an English rock band, was formed in London in 1964. The classic lineup, established that year, consisted of lead vocalist Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, bassist John Entwistle, and drummer Keith Moon. The band evolved from an earlier group called the Detours. Their formation marked the beginning of what would become one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century, known for their contributions to the development of rock music and live performance techniques.
1965
Breakthrough and Early Hits
In 1965, The Who released their first single, "I Can't Explain," which reached the UK top ten and established them as rising stars in the British music scene. This was followed by a series of hit singles including "Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere" and "My Generation," both also released in 1965. These early songs showcased their energetic mod style and helped the band gain a dedicated following.
1967
Monterey Pop Festival and Continued Success
The Who performed at the Monterey Pop Festival, gaining significant exposure in the United States. They released the single "I Can See for Miles," which became their only US top ten hit. Their music at this time exemplified the innovative blend of power and melody that was characteristic of their style, increasing their international reputation.
1969
Release of Tommy and Expanding Influence
1969 marked a turning point for The Who with the release of their rock opera concept album Tommy. The album was both a critical and commercial success, featuring the popular single "Pinball Wizard." The release cemented their status as pioneers in the development of the concept album and rock opera genres.
1970
Live at Leeds and Woodstock Performance
The Who's reputation as a powerful live act was solidified with the release of the live album Live at Leeds, which is considered one of the best live rock albums. Their performance at the Woodstock Festival further enhanced their stature in the rock community. These events highlighted their energy, musicianship, and showmanship in live performances.
1971
Who's Next and Musical Evolution
Following the abandonment of the ambitious Lifehouse project, The Who released Who's Next, which included enduring hits like "Won't Get Fooled Again," "Baba O'Riley," and "Behind Blue Eyes." This album blended rock with synthesizer experimentation and demonstrated Townshend's songwriting prowess, further evolving the band's sound.
1973
Release of Quadrophenia
The Who released another influential concept album, Quadrophenia, celebrating their mod roots. The album was a complex and ambitious work that solidified their reputation for creating narrative-driven rock music. It was accompanied by a tour featuring elaborate stage setups and helped maintain the band's prominence in the rock scene.
1975
Tommy Film and The Who by Numbers
In 1975, The Who oversaw the film adaptation of Tommy, extending their rock opera's reach to cinema audiences. That year they also released The Who by Numbers, an album that reflected a more introspective and mature side of the band. They continued touring extensively, although pressures were apparent within the group.
1978
Death of Keith Moon and Who Are You
The release of the album Who Are You was overshadowed by the death of drummer Keith Moon shortly after its release. Moon's death marked an end of an era for the band. Kenney Jones, formerly of the Small Faces, replaced him on drums, allowing the group to continue their career with a new dynamic.
1979
Quadrophenia Film and The Kids Are Alright Documentary
The Who released a film adaptation of Quadrophenia, bringing their iconic album's story to the big screen, and also put out the retrospective rockumentary The Kids Are Alright. These releases celebrated the band's history and influence, and reintroduced their music to a new generation of fans.
1981
Face Dances Album and Continued Touring
In 1981, The Who released Face Dances, marking one of their early albums without Keith Moon. The band incorporated new elements and musicians, including keyboardist John "Rabbit" Bundrick. The album was followed by world tours that sustained their presence in the rock world despite internal challenges.
1982
Release of It's Hard and Band Split
The Who released It's Hard in 1982, an album that included hits but also reflected growing weariness within the group, especially from Townshend. Following this period, the band officially disbanded in 1983 after a final tour, marking the end of their initial era of activity.
1985
Live Aid Reunion
The Who reunited for a significant live performance at the Live Aid concert in 1985, which was a major global event to raise funds for famine relief in Africa. This reunion reignited interest in the band and demonstrated their continuing relevance and ability to perform live at a high level.
1989
25th Anniversary Tour and Simon Phillips on Drums
In 1989, The Who celebrated their 25th anniversary with a reunion tour. Simon Phillips took over drumming duties, reinvigorating the band's live performances. This tour helped to reconnect the band with their fan base and maintain their legacy in rock music.
1996-1997
Quadrophenia Tour with Zak Starkey
The band toured extensively performing the Quadrophenia album live, with Zak Starkey on drums. This tour was notable for its elaborate production and focus on one of their classic works, reaffirming their importance in rock history and introducing their music to new audiences.
1999
Full-time Reunion
The Who reassembled as a full-time band in 1999, with Zak Starkey permanently joining as the drummer. This marked a new chapter of ongoing performances and recording efforts, as the band reestablished themselves in the contemporary music world.
2002
Death of John Entwistle and Continuation
Bassist John Entwistle died unexpectedly in 2002, causing a temporary delay in the band's plans. Despite this loss, the band decided to continue performing, with Pino Palladino stepping in on bass. This period was marked by both mourning and resilience as the band moved forward.
2006
Release of Endless Wire and Return to Recording
After several years focusing on live performances, The Who released Endless Wire in 2006, their first studio album in 24 years. The album was met with positive reviews and marked a significant return to recording new material, showing the band's ability to adapt and create amid changing musical landscapes.
2019
Release of Who Album and Moving On! Tour
In 2019, The Who released their twelfth studio album, Who, which was supported by the Moving On! Tour featuring a symphony orchestra. This tour and album demonstrated the band's ongoing creativity and their commitment to delivering dynamic live experiences, blending rock with orchestral elements to captivate audiences.
Albums
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
Frank Simes
2012
Keyboard
Additional
Zak Starkey
1996
Additional
Drums (drum set)
Chris Stainton
2012
Keyboard
Additional
Simon Townshend
2002
Mandolin
Guitar
Background vocals
Additional
Loren Gold
2012
Keyboard
Additional
Pete Townshend
1964
Lead vocals
Synthesizer
Guitar
Keyboard
Roger Daltrey
1964
Percussion
Harmonica
Guitar
Lead vocals
Pino Palladino
2002
Bass guitar
Additional
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Simon Townshend
1996
1997
Guitar
Additional
Background vocals
Mandolin
John “Rabbit” Bundrick
1979
2011
Keyboard
Kenney Jones
1978
1985
Drums (drum set)
Doug Sandom
1964
1964
Drums (drum set)
John Entwistle
1964
2002
French horn
Keyboard
Lead vocals
Synthesizer
Trumpet
Bass guitar
Keith Moon
1964
1978
Drums (drum set)
Story of The Who
The Who: A Rock & Roll Revolution
The Who, born from the ashes of the Detours in London's bustling 1964, exploded onto the music scene like a sonic boom. Their classic lineup - the powerhouse vocals of Roger Daltrey, the innovative guitar wizardry of Pete Townshend, the thunderous bass of John Entwistle, and the explosive drumming of Keith Moon - forever changed the landscape of rock music.
These four lads weren't just musicians; they were pioneers. They pushed the boundaries of sound with the iconic Marshall stack, mammoth PA systems, and pioneering use of synthesizers. Entwistle's bass lines were a rhythmic force to be reckoned with, while Moon's drumming was a chaotic, unpredictable storm. Townshend, with his groundbreaking feedback and power chords, redefined the role of the guitar.
The Who were more than just loud; they were a cultural phenomenon. Embracing the pop art and mod movements, they turned their stage into a canvas of auto-destructive art, smashing instruments with a raw energy that captivated audiences.
Their influence extends far beyond the stage. Their early hits, from the rebellious "I Can't Explain" to the anthemic "My Generation" and the defiant "Substitute," defined a generation. They wowed the world at Monterey Pop, and their 1969 masterpiece, "Tommy," redefined the concept album with its groundbreaking rock opera and the enduring hit "Pinball Wizard."
Their legacy is etched in rock & roll history. The Who, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, remain a cornerstone of the genre, inspiring countless hard rock, punk, power pop, and mod bands for generations to come. They were, and continue to be, the sound of a generation.
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