25 Must-Have Songs On Your The Who Playlist

Hey music lovers! Are you ready to dive into the incredible world of The Who? This legendary British rock band has given us some of the most iconic anthems in music history. From their explosive live performances to their groundbreaking concept albums, The Who have left an indelible mark on rock and roll. If you're putting together the ultimate The Who playlist, you've come to the right place. Let's explore 25 songs that absolutely need to be on it. Trust me, guys, this is going to be epic!

1. Baba O'Riley

Let's kick things off with a true masterpiece: "Baba O'Riley." This song is an absolute powerhouse, and it's impossible to imagine a The Who playlist without it. Released in 1971 as part of their seminal album "Who's Next," "Baba O'Riley" is famous for its mesmerizing synthesizer intro, which was groundbreaking at the time. This intro, often mistaken for an organ, was actually created using a Lowrey organ and programmed with information about Meher Baba's biographical data, hence the title. The driving rhythm, Pete Townshend's powerful guitar riffs, and Roger Daltrey's soaring vocals combine to create a sonic experience that's both exhilarating and deeply moving. "Baba O'Riley" isn't just a song; it's an anthem. It captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of The Who at their peak. The lyrics, which touch on themes of youthful disillusionment and the search for meaning, resonate just as strongly today as they did when the song was first released. The song's structure is also noteworthy, building from its iconic intro into a full-fledged rock explosion, complete with John Entwistle's thunderous bass and Keith Moon's frenetic drumming. The song's inclusion in countless films, TV shows, and sporting events has further cemented its place in popular culture. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to The Who, "Baba O'Riley" is a must-listen that will leave you breathless and wanting more. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its brilliance and its ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. So, crank up the volume and let the energy of "Baba O'Riley" wash over you. You won't regret it!

2. Won't Get Fooled Again

Next up, we have another absolute classic: "Won't Get Fooled Again." This epic track, also from the "Who's Next" album, is a sprawling, eight-and-a-half-minute masterpiece that showcases The Who's incredible musicianship and songwriting prowess. The song is instantly recognizable by its swirling organ intro, which creates a sense of anticipation and drama. As the song builds, it explodes into a powerful rock anthem, driven by Pete Townshend's blistering guitar work and Roger Daltrey's impassioned vocals. The lyrics of "Won't Get Fooled Again" are a searing commentary on political disillusionment and the cyclical nature of power. The song's central message, that revolutions often end up replacing one set of rulers with another, is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. This is a quintessential The Who track, capturing their rebellious spirit and their ability to tackle complex social issues in their music. The song's structure is a marvel of rock composition, moving seamlessly from its atmospheric intro to its high-energy verses and its explosive chorus. Keith Moon's drumming is particularly noteworthy, providing a propulsive and often chaotic energy that perfectly complements the song's intensity. John Entwistle's bass lines add a crucial layer of depth and complexity, while Townshend's guitar work is both melodic and ferocious. "Won't Get Fooled Again" is a song that demands to be played loud and experienced fully. Its length and complexity make it a true epic, but it never feels like it overstays its welcome. The song's energy and passion are infectious, and its message is both timeless and thought-provoking. For any The Who fan, this is an essential track that perfectly encapsulates the band's brilliance. So, get ready to be blown away by the sheer power and artistry of "Won't Get Fooled Again."

3. My Generation

No The Who playlist would be complete without the iconic "My Generation." This 1965 hit is a defining anthem of the mod generation, capturing their youthful rebellion and frustration. The song's raw energy and aggressive sound were revolutionary at the time, and it remains a classic to this day. "My Generation" is famous for its stuttering vocals, delivered with fierce intensity by Roger Daltrey. This stutter, which was initially a result of Daltrey's nervousness, became a signature element of the song and perfectly conveyed the angst and uncertainty of youth. The song's lyrics, which express a desire to live life on one's own terms, resonated deeply with young people in the 1960s and continue to speak to generations today. The instrumental break in "My Generation" is another highlight, featuring a blistering bass solo from John Entwistle and some of Pete Townshend's most iconic guitar work. Keith Moon's drumming is, as always, explosive and unpredictable, adding to the song's sense of controlled chaos. "My Generation" is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact, a snapshot of a particular moment in time. It captures the spirit of the 1960s and the emergence of youth culture as a powerful force. The song's influence can be heard in countless rock and punk bands that followed, and its energy and attitude remain as potent as ever. If you want to understand The Who's place in rock history, "My Generation" is an essential starting point. It's a song that demands to be played loud and sung along to with gusto. So, embrace your inner rebel and crank up "My Generation."

4. Pinball Wizard

From the rock opera "Tommy," "Pinball Wizard" is an instantly recognizable and infectiously catchy tune. This song tells the story of Tommy, a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who becomes a pinball champion. The song's upbeat tempo and memorable melody make it a crowd-pleaser, while its clever lyrics add depth and intrigue. "Pinball Wizard" is a perfect example of Pete Townshend's songwriting genius, blending rock and roll energy with narrative storytelling. The song's success helped propel "Tommy" to become one of the most celebrated rock operas of all time. The song's instrumentation is also noteworthy, featuring Townshend's driving guitar riffs and Roger Daltrey's dynamic vocals. The song's chorus is particularly memorable, with its catchy melody and sing-along lyrics. "Pinball Wizard" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its place in popular culture. Elton John's version is perhaps the most famous, but The Who's original remains the definitive rendition. Whether you're a fan of rock operas or just appreciate a great pop song, "Pinball Wizard" is a must-have for your The Who playlist. It's a song that will get your feet tapping and your head bobbing, and it's sure to put a smile on your face. So, get ready to enter the world of Tommy and the amazing pinball wizard!

5. Who Are You

The title track from their 1978 album, "Who Are You," is another essential addition to any The Who playlist. This song is a powerful and introspective rocker, driven by a heavy guitar riff and Roger Daltrey's commanding vocals. The lyrics explore themes of identity and self-discovery, asking the fundamental question, "Who are you?" The song's iconic opening piano chords, followed by the driving rhythm section, create an immediate sense of urgency and excitement. Pete Townshend's guitar work is particularly strong on this track, delivering both crunching power chords and melodic lead lines. "Who Are You" is also notable for being one of the last songs recorded by The Who with their original lineup, as drummer Keith Moon tragically passed away shortly after its release. The song's legacy has been further cemented by its use as the theme song for the TV show "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation." This exposure has introduced the song to new generations of listeners and helped to keep The Who's music alive. "Who Are You" is a song that can be interpreted in many ways, but its central theme of self-questioning resonates with listeners of all ages. It's a powerful and thought-provoking track that showcases The Who's ability to combine rock energy with lyrical depth. So, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself, "Who are you?" while listening to this classic The Who anthem.

The Rest of the Rocking Roster

Okay, guys, we've covered the top 5, but there's so much more The Who goodness to explore! Here are 20 more essential tracks to round out your ultimate playlist:

6. Behind Blue Eyes: A powerful ballad showcasing The Who's softer side.
7. The Kids Are Alright: An early classic that captures the spirit of the mod generation.
8. Love Reign O'er Me: A soaring epic from "Quadrophenia."
9. 5:15: Another standout track from "Quadrophenia."
10. The Real Me: A driving rocker about identity and self-discovery.
11. I Can See for Miles: A psychedelic-tinged hit from the late 1960s.
12. Substitute: A catchy and energetic track about mistaken identity.
13. Pictures of Lily: A whimsical song about a young man's obsession with a pin-up girl.
14. A Quick One, While He's Away: An early example of The Who's experimental side.
15. Happy Jack: A quirky and upbeat track with a memorable melody.
16. I'm Free: A triumphant anthem from "Tommy."
17. See Me, Feel Me: Another powerful moment from "Tommy."
18. Squeeze Box: A sing-along favorite with a folk-rock feel.
19. You Better You Bet: A catchy and commercially successful hit from the early 1980s.
20. Eminence Front: A synth-driven track with a dark and introspective mood.
21. Long Live Rock: A fist-pumping anthem celebrating the power of rock and roll.
22. Naked Eye: A raw and emotional track showcasing The Who's live energy.
23. Relay: A powerful and often overlooked gem from the early 1970s.
24. Join Together: A singalong rock anthem with a powerful message of unity.
25. Let's See Action: A high-energy rocker with a driving beat.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! 25 essential songs that belong on every The Who playlist. From their early mod anthems to their epic rock operas, The Who have created a body of work that is both timeless and influential. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering their music, these songs are a perfect starting point for exploring the incredible world of The Who. So, crank up the volume, let the music take over, and get ready to experience the raw power and energy of one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Rock on!