Tuesday Tribute: Pete Townshend

Pete Townshend is both a rock and roll pioneer and an icon for anyone who has ever played air guitar and really meant it. One of the founding members of The Who, Townshend is responsible for writing such songs as "My Generation," "I Can't Explain," and "Substitute." Known for his on stage theatrics, Townshend had a knack for smashing instruments and taking an attack-style approach to guitar, sometimes swinging his left arm around for his signature windmill style. Not only was he an incredible guitar player, but he was the principal songwriter in The Who. Townshend was responsible for creating Tommy, which may be the greatest "rock opera" of all time. He also wrote a second rock opera, Quadrophenia, which featured more experimental guitar styles. In the 1980's, Townshend had a mildly successful solo career with his most popular work being the 1980 tune "Let My Love Open The Door." Nowadays, Townshend still plays with The Who, who now round off their lineup with Pino Palladino and Zak Starkey (Ringo Starr's son) who replace John Entwhistle and Keith Moon. Some criticize Townshend for being too showy, but the fact is he is a pioneer. He may not have stacked up with Hendrix or Clapton as a soloist, but he wrote some of rock's greatest riffs that have only become sweeter with time. Today, we'll take a look at his impressive career.

The Who had countless memorable singles and one of the best is "Won't Get Fooled Again." It's odd to hear this tune stripped down because it's such a fist-pumper, but here's Townshend doing an acoustic version.



Not many people know that Townshend formed the one-hit-wonder group Thunderclap Newman. Townshend played bass on their single "Something In The Air." Not much of a video for it, but it plays the tune.



Here's a clip of Townshend doing an impromptu version of "The Seeker" with The Raconteurs. The rendition isn't too elaborate, but it is a good example of the influence that Townshend has had on Rock and Roll.



Lastly, we have some later Townshend with his hit "Let My Love Open the Door." This song has been used in commercials and movies alike and proved that Townshend could have a successful solo career as well.