Who's Next cover

Who's Next

The Who · 1971

78 min · 16 tracks · hard rock · progressive rock · R&B

An explosive blend of rock anthems and introspective ballads, encapsulating the spirit of early '70s rebellion.

Why listen to this

Best for
dynamic journey with emotional peaks cathartic release in anthemic moments introspective ballads for reflective moods
Context
Released on August 14, 1971, 'Who's Next' marked The Who's transition from ambitious rock operas to a more direct and powerful sound. Following the ambitious but commercially underwhelming 'Lifehouse' project, this album was pivotal in solidifying their status as rock icons.
If you like
hard rock, progressive rock, R&B
What next
Quadrophenia — This album continues the rock anthems and themes of rebellion from Who's Next.

Who's Next is an album by The Who, released in 1971. An explosive blend of rock anthems and introspective ballads, encapsulating the spirit of early '70s rebellion. 'Who's Next' is celebrated for its innovative use of synthesizers and powerful songwriting, achieving critical acclaim and commercial success. The single 'Baba O’Riley' became a defining anthem for generations, while 'Won't Get Fooled Again' is often hailed as one of the greatest rock songs ever, influencing countless artists and bands. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Who's Next sound like?

An explosive blend of rock anthems and introspective ballads, encapsulating the spirit of early '70s rebellion. Rooted in hard rock and progressive rock. Start with "Baba O’Riley".

Is Who's Next a good place to start with The Who?

Yes, Who's Next is recommended as a starting point for new The Who listeners. An explosive blend of rock anthems and introspective ballads, encapsulating the spirit of early '70s rebellion. Released on August 14, 1971, 'Who's Next' marked The Who's transition from ambitious rock operas to a more direct and powerful sound. Following the ambitious but commercially underwhelming 'Lifehouse' project, this album was pivotal in solidifying their status as rock icons.

Who is Who's Next for?

Who's Next works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, cathartic release in anthemic moments and introspective ballads for reflective moods.

How many songs are on Who's Next?

Who's Next has 16 tracks, running approximately 78 minutes.

Tracklist

16 tracks·78:00

New here? Start with Baba O’Riley.

  • 1 Baba O’Riley Start here 5:09
  • 2 Bargain 5:34
  • 3 Love Ain’t for Keeping 2:10
  • 4 My Wife 3:41
  • 5 The Song Is Over 6:14
  • 6 Getting in Tune 4:50
  • 7 Going Mobile 3:43
  • 8 Behind Blue Eyes Standout 3:42
  • 9 Won’t Get Fooled Again Standout 8:33
  • 10 Pure and Easy 4:21
  • 11 Baby Don’t You Do It 5:14
  • 12 Naked Eye 5:31
  • 13 Water 6:25
  • 14 Too Much of Anything 4:25
  • 15 I Don’t Even Know Myself 4:56
  • 16 Behind Blue Eyes Standout 3:26

Release Date

August 14, 1971

Genre

hard rock, progressive rock

More albums in hard rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

78 min 0 sec