#190 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“Deep enough in the list to separate casual fans from serious collectors. Tommy is The Who's statement piece (1969) — locked in from the first groove. The original pressing does justice to a record that defined its corner of rock.”
The Who emerged from London's mod scene in 1964, becoming one of rock's most innovative and influential bands. Led by Pete Townshend's songwriting and Roger Daltrey's powerful vocals, the band revolutionized rock music with the rock opera 'Tommy' (1969) and the ambitious double album 'Quadrophenia' (1973). Their early work combined aggressive power chords with smashed guitars and windmill arm movements, establishing their reputation as explosive live performers. Throughout the 1970s and beyond, they continued to produce critically acclaimed albums while maintaining legendary status as touring acts, influencing countless musicians across multiple generations.
Style
The Who pioneered power pop and hard rock with Pete Townshend's distinctive thick, crunching guitar sound and innovative use of synthesizers. Their music blends aggressive rock with intricate arrangements, memorable melodies, and Townshend's distinctive songwriting that ranges from rock anthems to introspective character studies.
Significance
The Who are essential to any serious rock vinyl collection, with 'Tommy' and 'Quadrophenia' considered landmark albums that expanded rock's artistic scope and commercial possibilities. Their original vinyl pressings, particularly early UK releases and the iconic 'Tommy' gatefold, remain highly sought after by collectors for both historical importance and sound quality.
The Who's Tommy, released in May 1969, was rock music's first double album rock opera. Pete Townshend wrote the ambitious concept album about a deaf, dumb, and blind boy who becomes a pinball champion and spiritual leader. Recorded primarily at IBC Studios in London between December 1968 and April 1969, the album featured contributions from legendary session musicians including John Entwistle on bass, Keith Moon on drums, and guest appearances by Elton John, Eric Clapton, and others. Townshend's vision unified the band's raw power with sophisticated orchestral arrangements and narrative storytelling, creating a groundbreaking work that blended rock with operatic elements. The album showcased the band's technical prowess and Townshend's evolving songwriting, establishing The Who as artists capable of conceptual depth beyond three-minute singles.
Historical Context
Tommy arrived during a pivotal moment when rock music was asserting itself as a serious artistic medium. Released in 1969, amid the Beatles' Abbey Road and other ambitious projects, the album helped legitimize rock opera as a genre. It was a critical and commercial triumph, reaching number 2 in the UK and number 4 in the US, eventually selling millions of copies worldwide. The album's success led to subsequent film adaptations and stage productions, cementing its cultural legacy. Critics praised its innovation while some questioned whether rock opera could sustain artistic credibility beyond novelty.
Pressing Notes
The original 1969 pressing on Decca (UK) and MCA (US) came as a gatefold double album with detailed artwork by Mike Leather. Early pressings are highly sought by collectors, particularly UK Decca issues with the Decca label and original Matrix information. The album has been reissued multiple times, including stereo and mono versions. Later pressings vary in sound quality and pressing quality; collectors should seek early Decca UK or original MCA US pressings for optimal sound. Remastered editions and audiophile pressings from Mobile Fidelity and other labels offer improved sound but lack the original release's historical value. Vinyl condition significantly affects value, as original pressings command premium prices in excellent condition.
Who's Next
The Who
A masterpiece of prog-rock experimentation that builds on Tommy's ambitious sonic approach with equally innovative production and powerful arrangements.
The Wall
Pink Floyd
Another landmark double album concept record that explores psychological themes with orchestral arrangements and dramatic rock instrumentation similar to Tommy's theatrical scope.
Close to the Edge
Yes
A progressive rock essential with intricate instrumental passages and emotional depth that resonates with Tommy's artistic vision and vinyl presentation quality.
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