About The Who

Continuing to perform live and having recently went back into the studio, The Who have only taken two short periods of retirement since their forming in the 1960's. Originally when forming, they used the name The Detours and played mainly rhythm and blues. In 1964, they changed their name to The Who. The full band consisted of Roger Daltrey on lead vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar, John Entwistle on bass and Keith Moon on drums. For the British Mods, who were part of a social movement which rejected the "greaser" music of the early 1960's, they became a very sought after band.

The Who's first hit was "I Can't Explain" in 1965, a very Kinks-influenced song which soon led to the hit "Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere", the only song that was a joint effort of Daltrey and Townshend. With Townshend being the main songwriter, he was at the eye of the tension within the band. Daltrey was more akin to the more gruff and simple sound while Townshend was geared toward the thoughtful, more challenging type of songs. Often disagreeing with each other's song writing, Daltrey would at times refuse to sing a song composed by Townshend causing Daltrey to sing it himself as a result.

A very ambitions band, The Who, though very successful as a "singles" band, worked hard towards making future albums which included songs that were more connected as to release something more than an album full of songs that were disconnected and catchy. This led to more involved and mentally stimulating songs.

1978 brought The Who's release of "Who Are You" which included the hit single title track that became one of the most recognized rock songs in history. The death of Keith Moon put a dark cloud over the release of this album happening only a few hours after a party held by Paul McCartney. When the air cleared, The Who returned to the stage and were greeted with great enthusiasm and admiration. The shows played at Madison Square Garden in New York City and at the Rainbow Theatre in London received great audience response.

Future plans for the band include a completed recording that is due for release in October of 2006. This album will feature their first album completed with all new material. The first all new album released since 1982. Currently The Who are on European Tour which are the first shows since their 2004 world tour and a short performance at the Live 8 concert in 2005. The North American Tour has been announced and dates are confirmed for the 2006 The Who Tour schedule that runs from September 7th through October 10th. Vividseats.com has The Who Concert tickets available for the complete 2006 tour schedule. Find them now!