About this album
Where they were
Released in 2002, 'The Ultimate Collection' came during The Who's legacy phase as they celebrated their storied career. This compilation encapsulates their evolution from the early mod sounds of the 1960s to their later rock opera masterpieces, showcasing their enduring influence on rock music.
Why it matters
This album serves as a definitive anthology of The Who's work, featuring essential tracks that have shaped rock history. It achieved significant commercial success, charting in multiple countries and solidifying the band's position as one of rock’s most iconic acts, while also receiving positive critical acclaim for its comprehensive track selection.
Essential tracks
- "My Generation" — The anthem of youth rebellion, 'My Generation' encapsulates the band's early sound and energy, making it a defining moment in rock history.
- "Baba O’Riley" — 'Baba O’Riley' stands out with its innovative use of synthesizers and poignant themes about generational disillusionment, highlighting the band's artistic peak.
- "Pinball Wizard" — This track showcases the band’s storytelling prowess and musicality, becoming a signature song featured prominently in the rock opera 'Tommy.'
- "Who Are You" — 'Who Are You' reflects the band’s introspection and evolution, capturing their complexity as artists while resonating with audiences across generations.
Release Date
January 1, 2002
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 I Can’t Explain 2:06
- 2 Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere 2:41
- 3 My Generation 3:19
- 4 The Kids Are Alright 2:46
- 5 A Legal Matter 2:49
- 6 Substitute 3:48
- 7 I’m a Boy 2:38
- 8 Boris the Spider 2:28
- 9 Happy Jack 2:11
- 10 Pictures of Lily 2:46
- 11 I Can See for Miles 4:08
- 12 Call Me Lightning 2:22
- 13 Magic Bus 3:22
- 14 Pinball Wizard 3:02
- 15 I’m Free 2:40
- 16 See Me Feel Me 3:27
- 17 The Seeker 3:13
- 18 Summertime Blues (live) 3:25
- 19 My Wife 3:35
- 20 Baba O’Riley 5:01
- 21 Bargain 5:35
- 22 Behind Blue Eyes 3:42
- 23 Won’t Get Fooled Again 8:33
Disc 2
- 1 Let’s See Action 4:00
- 2 Pure and Easy 5:23
- 3 Join Together 4:22
- 4 Long Live Rock 3:55
- 5 The Real Me 3:31
- 6 5’15 4:54
- 7 Love Reign O’er Me 5:52
- 8 Squeeze Box 2:43
- 9 Who Are You 6:21
- 10 Had Enough 4:30
- 11 Sister Disco 4:21
- 12 You Better You Bet 5:37
- 13 Don’t Let Go the Coat 3:45
- 14 The Quiet One 3:09
- 15 Another Tricky Day 4:54
- 16 Athena 3:26
- 17 Eminence Front 5:42
Disc 3
- 1 Substitute (rare US single version) 3:01
- 2 I’m a Boy (early version) 3:21
- 3 Happy Jack (acoustic version) 2:53
- 4 Magic Bus (UK single version) 3:20