The Top 200 Songs of The Who
by: Garrett Jennings @GarJennings
In celebration
of the 55+ year anniversary of The Who, here are the Top 200 Songs by
The Who, listing the definitive recordings and the MVP group member that made
that particular song special.
If you'd like to listen on Spotify click here!
100b) Rockin' In Rage -
From The Who's 2019 album release
entitled "Who". This is a great album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list
so I am inserting the songs from the new album in my list. This is the
10th track on the album. The album debuted at the top of the charts in the USA
and 3rd in the UK and was ranked as the #1 album in the world.
https://youtu.be/49fVOODLUy0
100) Cousin Kevin - John Entwistle was requested by Pete Townshend to write this song for Tommy because it dealt with child abuse (of the lead character, deaf, dumb and blind boy, Tommy). As Townshend would write in his autobiography years later, thoughts of his own child abuse growing up were still echoing in his mind. So even though Townshend was first recognized as a musical genius after writing Tommy, Entwistle, who had a flair for the macabre, wrote the creepy and dark "Cousin Kevin". The definitive version of this song is from the original album "Tommy" and the Who member MVP goes to John Entwistle, for his writing and singing on this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DWaX9kK6TE
99) Too Much of Anything – You know an album is incredible when you hear the songs that didn't make the cut. That is the case with “Too Much of Anything” written by Pete Townshend for the concept album “Lifehouse” which eventually got whittled down from the double album “Lifehouse” to the single album “Who’s Next”. “Who’s Next” is regarded by many rock fans as one of the greatest albums of all time by any artist. So, even though “Too Much of Anything” didn't make it onto “Who’s Next” it is still an incredible song. The definitive version of this song can be found on the extended re-released “Who’s Next” and the Who member MVP goes to Pete Townshend.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEvGzpCFMsk
98) Guitar and Pen – As of the writing of this article, Pete Townshend is not in the Songwriters Hall of Fame which is of course a crime. This song “Guitar and Pen” is about his songwriting process. Townshend has always said that he writes for Roger Daltrey’s voice and I think this song makes that obvious. I hope the two of them perform it together when Townshend eventually gets inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. The definitive version of this song can be found on the album “Who Are You” and the Who member MVP goes to Roger Daltrey.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp9EdWnSX-c
97) Cobwebs and Strange – Keith Moon always said that drum solos were boring but of course every song he played on was effectively a drum solo from start to finish. He had a natural, exciting and inventive ability and the members of The Who wanted to spotlight that on this song “Cobwebs and Strange”. The definitive version can be found on the album “A Quick One” and of course the Who MVP goes to Keith Moon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcpkUNqrjQU
96) Dangerous – Pete Townshend always described the songs that John Entwistle wrote as having three songs wrapped into one. Entwistle turned the bass guitar into a lead instrument in the 60’s and he was still doing it in the 80’s. The definitive version of this song can be found on the album “It’s Hard” and the Who MVP for this song is John Entwistle.
95) 1921 – Pete Townshend’s masterpiece album “Tommy” propelled The Who into super-stardom and led them on a worldwide tour performing their rock opera at opera houses and at some of the most historic performances in rock history. This song lays out the narrative of the story. The definitive version of this song is on “Tommy” although the live versions are all wonderful. And Townshend is the Who MVP for this song with his sweet vocals and great guitar work.
94) Eyesight to the Blind – This is the first (and there will be more) of Who covers (this song being written by Sonny Boy Williamson) to be on this list. The four members during the recording and performances of “Tommy” did reinvent the songs and make them their own and made them work in the story of the album. The definitive version of this song is from “Tommy” (again acknowledging many live recordings that once again reinvented the song) and the Who MVP goes to Roger Daltrey for his soulful vocals.
93) Much Too Much – On this list I am picking the Who MVP that made the recording special. Keith Moon is my MVP for this song (and for me he is the MVP for the entire “My Generation” album). He drives the song all the way through with the power and energy that would define The Who. The definitive version of this song can be found on “My Generation”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN9FlB6G7Nk
92) Postcard – There are some songs on this list that might not be well known to the casual Who fan. This song was written by John Entwistle and shows his sense of humor in his writing as he describes the different countries that The Who visit on their world tour. It’s an infectious melody and a cult favorite of hard core Who fans. The definitive version can be found on their album “Odds & Sods” and the Who MVP for this song is John Entwistle.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldgwGbM034o
91) Imagine a Man – Pete Townshend is such an incredible guitarist when you consider the rhythm and lead parts that he would jump between as he was literally jumping around the stage. His acoustic guitar is hypnotic and the lyrics of this song “Imagine a Man” seem to pour from his heart and soul as so many of his songs. So the Who MVP for this song is Pete Townshend and the definitive version is from their album “Who By Numbers”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBN5U-nA6Is
90b) Street Song
- From
The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great album. I didn't
want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from the new album
in my list. This is the 7th track on the album.
Pete Townshend wrote "Street Song" about the Grenfell
Tower block fire in London that
killed 72 people in 2017. The disaster hit Townshend hard as he grew up in that
neighborhood and knew people that lived in the building next door to Grenfell.
https://youtu.be/NsoLC3OW77w
90) Helpless Dancer – It’s hard to pick a Who MVP for any song from “Quadrophenia” because all four members were at their performance peaks. But I have to give the MVP to Roger Daltrey who could have sung this song a cappella and it still would have that tension, anger and emotion that the entire album exuded. The definitive version is from the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2W1-69yraU
89) Girl’s Eyes – Keith Moon didn't write too many songs but when he did you could always tell how he loved the sound of the Beach Boys. It’s sometimes hard to say if his drumming inspired the rest of the band members to new heights musically or the reverse. Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “Girl’s Eyes” and the definitive version is from The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ui-S2CTzcRo
88) Success Story – This song was one of the many highlights from the greatest rockumentary of all time “The Kids Are Alright”. John Entwistle wrote this song and once again he is able to tell a story with his lyrics. In this case he gives insight into the world of being a rock star and traveling the world. John Entwistle is the Who MVP on this song and the definitive version is on the album “Who By Numbers”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1p0m2E7eQKA
87) Sunrise – You can hear the musical influences of Pete Townshend when you listen to this song. He has said that the jazzy chords he used in this song were deliberate to impress his highly musical parents. I have always thought that a performer like Tony Bennett should record an album called “The Songs of Pete Townshend” and it should include this song (and also his song called “Never Ask Me” from one of Townshend’s solo albums called “Another Scoop”). So, Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “Sunrise” and the definitive version is from “The Who Sell Out”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhPV-sDNcuA
86) Go To The Mirror! – The album “Tommy” turned The Who into a Supergroup but it really made Roger Daltrey into the quintessential front man. It also led Roger to an acting career because it became apparent that he could identify with the lead character and perform with such passion. So the Who MVP goes to Roger Daltrey for the song “Go To The Mirror!” and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
85) Cut My Hair – As I listen to this song I hear John Entwistle’s melodic bass, Townshend’s sweet vocals and songwriting, Daltrey’s powerful vocals kicking in on the chorus but Keith Moon’s drumming once again drives this song. The Grammy’s should have invented an award in 1973 for “Greatest Achievement in Drumming” and Keith Moon would have been the inaugural recipient of that award. So Keith Moon is the Who MVP on this song “Cut My Hair” and the definitive version is on “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8R0igKESJUY
84) Whiskey Man – Once again John Entwistle’s dark humor comes through in his song “Whiskey Man”. In addition to being the greatest bass player of all time, John would use horns in his songs as he got his musical start playing the French horn. The horns add some extra creepiness in this song as he sings about whiskey man’s addiction and eventual insanity. So John Entwistle is the Who MVP for “Whiskey Man” and the definitive version of this song can be found on the album “A Quick One”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm60Aw8YTQE&spfreload=1
83) I Can’t Reach You - A lot of hard-core Who fans recognize the album “The Who Sell Out” as Pete Townshend’s first masterpiece even before “Tommy”. Townshend sprinkles great pop/rock songs through what sounds like a radio broadcast on a pirate radio station complete with commercials written by Townshend which are also finely crafted songs. One of those pop/rock songs is “I Can’t Reach You” and Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for that song and the definitive version is of course on “The Who Sell Out”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8ZuRuZNIQo
82) Squeezebox – Pete Townshend wrote this song on a whim after teaching himself how to play an accordion. You can hear the original recording on Townshend’s solo album “Scoop” which really gives a little insight into his songwriting process. But I think it was Roger Daltrey’s vocals that made the song “Squeezebox” become a radio hit for many years to come. So, Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who By Numbers”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49H0IfoILwQ
81) La La La Lies – It’s amazing to think that Keith Moon was mostly self-trained on drums and didn't really even start playing until his teens. He was very inventive and seemed to do something different on every song. So, Keith Moon gets the Who MVP on this song and the definitive version can be found on the album “My Generation”.
80b) Hero Ground Zero
- From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 6th track on the album. The Who
explore different sounds on the album keep the Who energy throughout.
https://youtu.be/glhe17DqhR0
80) Tommy Can You Hear Me? – I think what makes The Who the greatest band of all time is they have the harmonies and melodies of The Beatles but the harder edge of The Rolling Stones. Contributing to that hard edge was John Entwistle’s bass. Even on this very acoustic song “Tommy Can You Hear Me?” Entwistle’s bass adds a nice dimension. So, John Entwistle gets the Who MVP on this song and the definitive version can be found on the album “Tommy” and is also featured in the movie “The Kids Are Alright”.
79) Mary-Anne With the Shaky Hand – Pete Townshend had a great sense of humor and it came out in his song-writing quite often. This song “Mary-Anne With the Shaky Hands” was never a radio hit (perhaps because of the innuendo in the lyrics) but for that reason it is another of the many hard-core Who fan cult favorites. So, Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP on this song which can be found on the album “The Who Sell Out”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjBxdQcHyI0
78) How Many Friends – This song is one of many that Pete Townshend wrote for the album “Who By Numbers” that were very introspective. Yet even though he was looking introspectively, he still relied on Roger Daltrey to be his voice and to sing with the emotion that he was feeling. And Daltrey certainly does that on this song, so Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who By Numbers”.
77) Call Me Lightning – Keith Moon loved The Beach Boys (his first band was a cover band called The Beachcombers). Pete Townshend wrote this song mainly because he knew Keith would like it because it fits into the theme of Beach Boy songs (fast cars and pretty girls). So Keith Moon gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version can be found on several albums but I would recommend their box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://youtu.be/koxQnIEgvGU?t=7s
76) Is It In My Head? – It’s hard to pick just one Who MVP for any song from “Quadrophenia” because each member of The Who was so integral to the album. But the whole album is tour de force of John Entwistle. So much so, when “Quadrophenia” the movie was produced, the bass was mixed even more prominently to give the movie a different sound than the original album. So, John Entwistle gets the Who MVP on this song and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RU78m0dtkX4
75) The Acid Queen – There have been many famous female singers that have sung this song and many stage and screen productions of “Tommy” but nothing beats the passion and the power of The Who performing the rock opera. Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP for “The Acid Queen” and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
74) Slip Kid – I’m lucky enough to live in a town (Chicago) that has always had 3 or 4 stations that crank out The Who (props to WXRT, WDRV and WLUP). I heard a DJ once describe Roger Daltrey as having leather-lungs. He really has a unique voice combining power and emotion. So, the Who MVP for this song “Slip Kid” is Roger Daltrey and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who By Numbers”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4xjr9v5ehk
73) Our Love Was – Another great pop song from the cult favorite album “The Who Sell Out”. I think Keith Moon had the most fun playing on these songs. It’s funny how this pop love song has Keith Moon just murdering the drums throughout. So, Keith Moon gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version is on the album “The Who Sell Out”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XS5spuKkvW4
72) Another Tricky Day – It’s amazing when a musical artist can adapt and change through multiple decades. The Who did it without compromising what they believe. They were also able to overcome the adversity of losing Keith Moon and launch into a world tour with Kenney Jones on drums in support of their album “Face Dances”. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP on this song “Another Tricky Day” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Face Dances”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKHuuX3AvLM
71) Sensation – I love the trust that the members of The Who had for Pete Townshend and his concept of a deaf, dumb and blind boy who becomes this sort of messiah for the youth of the world. It’s a great lesson to trust your feelings and take chances in life. So, Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
https://youtu.be/FeB3fNRPLEc?feature=shared
70b) Detour -
From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 4th track on the album. Perhaps
referring to the days when The Who were known as The Detours.
https://youtu.be/mITPKXD4VZA
70) A Man in a Purple Dress – When people describe The Who it’s always with extreme adjectives like: loudest, greatest, ground-breaking, influential. I love the Pete Townshend quote “love us or hate us but we won’t be ignored”. Even in their comeback album “Endless Wire” (24 years after their previous studio album) where Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend have reached their elder years, they are still not being ignored. Townshend still writes songs with deep thoughts and scathing lyrics and Roger Daltrey can still deliver those thoughts with all the passion he's always had. Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for “A Man in a Purple Dress” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Endless Wire”.
69) The Good's Gone – The Who are of course a “first-ballot” member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame because of the influence they had on musical artists that came after them. The song “The Good’s Gone” from their first album “My Generation” is a good example of a sound that would be emulated by new artists for the next several decades. Keith Moon gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version can be found on the Who album “My Generation”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgb2L2u07-U
68) 905 – This was a sci-fi concept song by John Entwistle. The lyrics conjure an image similar to the movie “The Matrix” but of course this song predated that movie since it was released on The Who’s 1978 album “Who Are You”. Songs by The Who always seem to build to a climax and for this song it’s around the 2:25 mark. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for the song “905” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2ZOhWAaGVs
67) Blue Red And Grey – I saw Roger Daltrey on one of his solo tours perform this song by himself just singing and playing a ukulele. He loved the song and said Townshend never wanted to perform it live. Perhaps if The Who had performed it back in the 70’s it would have been more of a radio hit. The Who MVP for this song is Pete Townshend and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who By Numbers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7SliN-82P0
66) Here 'Tis – The hard core fans out there will say this was actually recorded when The Who were known as The High Numbers but it was really when The Who developed their unique style of rock and R&B. Roger Daltrey loved the blues and his vocals and harmonica were perfect for it. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “Here ‘Tis” and the definitive version of the song can be found on The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE7rxMxkoSw
65) Zoot Suit – This is another very early recording of The Who (aka The High Numbers) and you can see what a talent Keith Moon was on drums even at a very young age. They were able to take old blues songs and rock them up and take original songs and deliver them with a raw blues edge as if it were a blues classic. The Who MVP on the song “Zoot Suit” is Keith Moon and the definitive version of the song can be found on The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
64) You – John Entwistle wrote songs that begged to be played live. The Who are generally regarded as the greatest live rock band of all time. Their songs took on a new life when performed live especially due to the bass playing of John Entwistle. So John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for the song “You”. There are a lot of great live recordings out there but for the original studio version you can get it from the album “Face Dances”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PT0CglTz-A
63) Drowned – A lot of hare-core fans will say “Quadrophenia” was The Who’s greatest album (even over “Who’s Next”). “Quadrophenia” was another rock opera which was always compared to “Tommy”. “Tommy” had more of an impact on the stage probably because of “Roger Daltrey” taking on the persona of “Tommy”. “Quadrophenia” was a challenge to perform live because of the synth recordings that the band had to orchestrate with. As technology improved and caught up to The Who, they were able to perform “Quadrophenia” in its entirety the way they had always envisioned it to be performed on stage. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “Drowned” but I think the definitive version is Pete Townshend alone with an acoustic guitar performing this live on albums such as “The Secret Policeman’s Ball”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2t9slqL_eSw
62) Athena – I have to admit to having a lot of nostalgia for this song. It brings me back to 1982 working at McDonald’s back in my high school days. Before the days of the Internet we couldn't look up the lyrics, and since we weren't familiar with the English expression of “She’s a bomb”, we didn't know what The Who were saying. But it didn't matter back then (we just made up lyrics if we had to) as we sang in our cars. The Who MVP goes to Roger Daltrey for the song “Athena” and the definitive version of this song is on “It’s Hard”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go6FYVw6tTo
61) Leaving Here – This is another great cover by The Who and another song that they recorded as they very temporarily changed their name to The High Numbers. The Who had and continue to have such a big impact on the bands that came after them (like Pearl Jam who covered this song in the exact style of The Who). Keith Moon is the Who MVP on the song “Leaving Here” as he once again adds his own unique flair. For the definitive version of this song, buy The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UYb7n3bz0M
60b) Ball and Chain
- From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 2nd track on the album. Roger
Daltrey is incredible throughout this album and especially this song.
https://youtu.be/h2IN8wYqQ6E
60) I'm the Face – Maximum R&B was how The Who were accurately marketed back in the 60’s and so that is what their box set was named “30 Years of Maximum R&B”. John Entwistle on bass was a big part of that maximum R&B sound. So, John Entwistle is the Who MVP for the song “I’m the Face” and the definitive version of this song can be found on their box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW9j_-zm_80
59) A Legal Matter – Again Pete Townshend’s sense of humor comes out in this song as he sings about how difficult it is to be married. The Who always had a rock edge but this is a great pop song complete with an opening guitar riff that was so popular back in the 60’s. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “A Legal Matter’ and the definitive version is on “My Generation”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjCaWs93nCY
58) New Song – This is the lead song from the last studio album with Keith Moon (“Who Are You”). Even though Moon’s health may have been wavering at this point, he is still exciting and interesting to listen to. Roger Daltrey on the other hand was still operating at peak levels. Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for the song “New Song” and the definitive version is on the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdTHq4jPHkM
57) Baby Don't You Do It – Here is a cover of a Motown song that becomes a completely different song after The Who are done with it. The members were so competitive with each other (which famously caused conflicts) but they were also a very tight band as well which came from years of performing live. Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “Baby Don’t You Do It” and the definitive version can be found on the extended, re-mastered, re-released “Who’s Next” album.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjpkYoYKDzE
56) Trick Of The Light – John Entwistle always came up with unique song ideas like in this song about a prostitute but it’s more from the perspective of her client. John Entwistle might be the only bass player that would come up with bass riffs to kick off the song. John Entwistle is the Who MVP for the song “Trick of the Light” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0eu3fZnhgY
55) Sister Disco – This song has all the components of a Who song that I love: acoustic and electric guitars, Daltrey and Townshend taking turns on lead vocals, just the right amount of synth, and of course The Ox (John Entwistle on bass) and the Loon (Keith Moon on drums). You also have to appreciate that they are attacking disco in a year when it was very popular (1978). I love the solo, bluesy acoustic guitar at the end to remind all the disco lovers out there what real music is. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “Sister Disco” and the definitive version is on the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsilznEYQHs
54) I Don't Even Know Myself – Another great song that didn't make the cut for the album “Who’s Next” because it was originally going to be the aborted “Lifehouse” double album. Roger Daltrey’s voice and harmonica are epic on this song and it is one of those many songs that need to be re-discovered by classic rock radio stations. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “I Don’t Even Know Myself” and the definitive version can be found on the extended, re-mastered and re-released “Who’s Next” album.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rwimaMclLU
53) Out In The Street – This was the lead song on The Who’s album “My Generation”. Their goal back then was to capture their live sound in the studio. Keith Moon’s drumming made that possible. Keith Moon is the Who MVP on the song “Out In The Street” and the definitive version is the album “My Generation”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjWq5BInPv4
52) Dirty Jobs – A lot of adults describe the music of The Who and specifically the album “Quadrophenia” as what helped get them through adolescence. The main character (Jimmy) goes through what we all struggle with: relationships, life direction, peer pressure. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for the song “Dirty Jobs” and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oP4yP3-I8Tk
51) A Quick One While He's Away (live version) – The definitive version of this song is a live recording from “The Rolling Stones Rock & Roll Circus” movie. There was a rumor that the Stones didn't release the movie because The Who upstaged them with a superb performance. But the recording was on The Who’s rockumentary “The Kids Are Alright”. You really need 4 cameras recording each member of The Who to catch every windmill from Townshend, every flourish from Moon, the thunder-fingers of Entwistle, and the whipping of the microphone by Daltrey. Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP for the song “A Quick One While He’s Away” as the writer of this mini-opera (referred to at times as the story of Tommy’s Parents) and once again the definitive version is on the soundtrack to “The Kids Are Alright”.
http://www.mojvideo.com/video-the-who-a-quick-one-while-he-s-away/da4825c503bee7b84e61
50b) Break The News -
From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 9th track on the album and it is the
one song on the album written by Simon Townshend (Pete's brother).
https://youtu.be/o4HVg4LW_PM
50) Faith In Something Bigger – This is another song that the classic rock stations need to re-discover. It may have been over-looked when it was first released on the album of rarities and out-takes called “Odds & Sods”. But Roger Daltrey’s voice sounds great and he is the Who MVP for the song “Faith in Something Bigger” and the definitive version is once again on the album “Odds & Sods”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKzzt1PkgfY
49) Bell Boy – The album “Quadrophenia” was the story of Jimmy who had 4 personalities, each represented by a different member of The Who. The song “Bell Boy” was Keith Moon’s theme song, so we get to hear the comical Keith singing the part of the bell boy with a very cockney accent. So, Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “Bell Boy” and the definitive version of this song can be found on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_8j5lGcvKE
48) Had Enough (from the album Who Are You) – This song was written by John Entwistle and once again you can see his dark side within the lyrics. It combines a great combination of horns, synth, Roger’s vocals, Townshend and Entwistle harmonies, and great instrumentation by the band. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for the song “Had Enough” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9DWS67fMrM
47) Pure and Easy – Another great song “left over” from the aborted “Lifehouse” double album that didn't make it on to “Who’s Next” but was on the rarities and out-takes album “Odds & Sods”. Pete Townshend’s guitar and vocals sound great towards the climatic ending of the song. Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP for the song “Pure and Easy” and the definitive version can be found on The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3OurDXdlic
46) Sea and Sand – This song and most of the songs on “Quadrophenia” combine beautiful poetry with high energy rock. But the two seemingly opposites blend seamlessly. Roger Daltrey’s voice evokes the emotion of the poetry and the power of the rock. Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for the song “Sea and Sand” and the definitive version of this song is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-f3LnfdSC0
45) Quadrophenia (overture) – Keith Moon sounds like an entire rhythm section of an orchestra throughout the “Quadrophenia” album. On this instrumental song you can hear the wonderful instrumentation of the band. Keith Moon is the Who MVP of the song “Quadrophenia – Overture” and the definitive version of this song is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okPlOaNQSpE
44) Dreaming From The Waist (live version) – John Entwistle was inventing new ways to play bass with every record release. By the time of the “Who By Numbers” release in 1975 he was ready for anything. Pete Townshend wrote this song which was a rocker that left plenty room for Keith Moon and John Entwistle to have fun with it. John Entwistle is the Who MVP for the song “Dreaming From The Waist” but the definitive version is a live version that you can find on The Who’s box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
43) I'm One – This song may be the ultimate crowd-pleaser at a Who concert and especially a Pete Townshend solo concert. The song is representative of the teen angst felt throughout the album “Quadrophenia”. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “I’m One” and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wYS0u0s1Wk
42) Don't Let Go The Coat – Pete Townshend’s songwriting adapted from the mod pop of the 60’s to the arena rock of the 70’s and then to the 80’s sound. Meanwhile, Roger’s Daltrey voice adapted every step of the way. This song “Don’t Let Go The Coat” has a great 80’s sound but still the trademark Daltrey vocals. So, the Who MVP goes to Roger Daltrey for this song and the definitive version is on the album “Face Dances”.
41) Heaven and Hell (live version) – Once again John Entwistle’s songwriting shows his dark side although with a sense of humor. The best version of this song has got to be one of their live versions. For a great high-quality movie check out “The Who: Isle of Wight (from 1970)” where as was the case during that tour The Who would lead off with this song. If you are looking for just the audio then you should get the greatest live album of all time “Live at Leeds” which is the definitive version. Keith moon is the Who MVP on the song “Heaven and Hell” – his drumming is insane on these live recordings.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5BUQzN8pl4
40b) I'll Be Back
- From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 8th track on the album and it is
really shows what a great songwriter Townshend is now 6 decades after he started
writing.
https://youtu.be/vP6LPjmHIPc
40) My Wife (live version) – Here is the first song from the original release of “Who’s Next” in my list, although I had to go with a live version as my definitive version. John Entwistle once again shows his dark humor with this song about him getting in trouble with his wife. John Entwistle is the Who MVP for the song “My Wife” and the definitive version is a live version that can be found on the album “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNlOHD8FR7c
39) Join Together – This is another one of the great songs recorded by The Who as part of the aborted “Lifehouse” double-album and was released as a single instead. Pete Townshend was an extremely prolific writer at this point in his career in the early 70’s. This song went on to be a classic rock radio station standard from that point until today. The Who MVP is Pete Townshend for the song “Join Together” and the definitive version can be found on the album “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HDMCCLlGl4
38) Naked Eye (live version) – I love the studio version of this song which was released on the rarities and out-takes album “Odds & Sods” but I think the definitive version is one of their live recordings. This song is a hard-core Who fan cult favorite and a crowd-pleaser. The Who MVP is Roger Daltrey the song “Naked Eye” and the definitive live version can be found on the The Who box set “30 Years of Maximum R&B”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bETMEfUs79Q
37) I've Had Enough (from the album Quadrophenia) – Keith Moon’s drumming creates a tension that is central to the plot of the album “Quadrophenia”. The main character Jimmy is being torn in 4 directions by peers, parents, employers and girls. This song is the climax of the movie “Quadrophenia”. The Who MVP is Keith Moon and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMDag50N8vY
36) So Sad About Us – I've always loved Pete Townshend’s “Scoop” solo albums where you can hear his original recordings of the songs he wrote before presenting them to The Who. You can kind of get a glimpse into his song-writing process. Of course The Who added the greatest bass player in John Entwistle, greatest drummer in Keith Moon and the greatest vocalist in Roger Daltrey and really created a genre of music in the 60’s called power pop. The Who MVP for the song “So Sad About Us” is John Entwistle and the definitive version can be found on their album “A Quick One”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E5d-G-hFLo
35) Long Live Rock – This is another great rocker written by Pete Townshend that was originally released on the rarities and out-takes album “Odds & Sods” but then gathered momentum as classic rock stations continued to play it for decades until now where it is a fan favorite. It is used as part of the most rocking closing credits in any movie on The Who rockumentary “The Kids Are Alright”. The Who MVP is Pete Townshend and the definitive version can be found on the album “Odds & Sods”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6VSSSbY0Pc
34) Love Ain't for Keepin' – Even though the full band is playing on this song, it feels like an acoustic song because of the prominent Pete Townshend acoustic guitar and great harmonies. This is from the incredible “Who’s Next” album which was so deep with great songs that this song perhaps didn't get the radio attention that it deserved. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “Love Ain’t for Keepin’” and the definitive version can be found on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IEaobS9O4A
33) Pictures of Lily – One of the greatest compilation albums by any band ever is “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy” which contained all the power pop singles from The Who in the 60’s like the song “Pictures of Lily”. A lot of that power and pop came from the drums of Keith Moon, so he gets the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version can be found on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saiaAlVx1E4
32) Shakin' All Over (live version) – After playing their rock opera Tommy at opera houses for over a year, I think The Who wanted to get back to their hard rock roots and recorded “Live at Leeds” which is regarded by rock fans as one of the greatest live rock albums of all time. They say the concert was sold out and people were on the roof of the theater building just to hear and feel the vibrations. The Who MVP for the song “Shakin’ All Over” is John Entwistle and the definitive version is on the album “Live at Leeds”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWgxjc7kv3Q
31) Overture/It's a Boy – The Who are credited for being the first to do a lot of things such as the first to write and perform a “rock opera”. It was an amazing concept and achievement by Pete Townshend that led to an Oscar-nominated music production and a Tony award winning Broadway stage production. The song “Overture/It’s a Boy” has some beautiful acoustic guitar work and vocals by Pete Townshend who is the Who MVP for this song and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjZ02-6SGpg
30b) Beads On One
String -
From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 5th track on the album and it is
beautiful.
https://youtu.be/cCNfyDnfwWg
30) I'm Free – This is one of the climatic moments in the album “Tommy” in which Roger Daltrey portrayed the deaf, dumb and blind boy freeing himself from his self-imposed prison. The public really identified with “Tommy” - hence its popularity. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “I’m Free” and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRD_gIoVOmY
29) I'm a Boy – This is another great power pop song on the great compilation album of 60’s hit singles “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”. If you are looking for a harder rock version of this song, then check out the live version on “Live at Leeds”. Both versions will have Keith Moon’s impeccable drumming who gets the Who MVP for the song “I’m a Boy”, and once again I would say the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3apJAMySqrI
28) The Punk Meets the Godfather – The Who influenced many bands that came after including the punk era which would begin a few years after the release of the album “Quadrophenia”. The album also spurred resurgence in the “mod rock” scene in England as well since the album’s plot revolved around the story of mod and rocker gangs fighting in the 60’s. The Who MVP for the song “The Punk Meets the Godfather” is John Entwistle and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7FrIt352VE
27) Eminence Front – Even though The Who adapted to the changing music scene into the 80’s very well, I think their core fans appreciated this cool rock song complete with guitar riffs and jams. It quickly became a song that would remain on classic rock stations play-lists for all-time. The Who MVP is Pete Townshend for the song “Eminence Front” and the definitive version is on the album “It’s Hard”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rx6Zgz0TZuA
26) Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere – This song has the distinction of being one of the few songs that Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend co-wrote (but I think Pete was being generous). It’s one of the songs where they were trying to attain the live sound they created on stage by using distortion and feedback. The Who were of course way ahead of their time as more bands would use these effects moving into the psychedelic rock era. Roger Daltrey gets the Who MVP for the song “Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pdg87FeJXrE
25) Happy Jack – Once again there are many great live recordings of this song, but I still love the power pop from the original single. There is a funny video for this song on The Who rockumentary “The Kids Are Alright”. Keith Moon’s drumming make him the Who MVP for the song “Happy Jack” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JY3hUdK56IM
24) Magic Bus – This is one of those many songs written by Pete Townshend that he was surprised to see became such a popular live song and crowd favorite. It may epitomize The Who’s description of “Maximum R&B” since it is blues-based but has all the Who components added: heavy bass, drums flourishes, electric and acoustic guitars, and harmonized vocals. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for the song “Magic Bus” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl9bvuAV-Ao
23) The Song is Over – This song is so beautiful that it does make you wonder what if the album “Who’s Next” was fully realized as a double album “Lifehouse” concept and what films or stage productions may have come from it. All four members of The Who were so important on every song of “Who’s Next” but I will give the Who MVP to Pete Townshend for the song “The Song is Over” and once again the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgYudFmmOl4
22) Young Man Blues (live version) – I have always said that I think this song recorded in 1970 for the album “Live at Leeds” invented punk rock. For me it epitomizes The Who’s sound at that point: high energy and heavy. If you need an example of why Roger Daltrey should be considered the greatest rock front man of all time, then take a look at the movie “The Who: Isle of Wight from 1970”. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “Young Man Blues” and the definitive version is on the album “Live at Leeds”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g30nwCpyaA
21)
Amazing Journey/Sparks (live version) – Sometimes
you have to listen to the live versions of songs to realize the talent of the
group members. Even though “Tommy” had a great acoustic rock sound, The Who
honed their live sound and perfected the stage performance of “Tommy” as they
toured. Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “Amazing Journey/Sparks” and the
definitive version is on the album “Live at Leeds”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNzOA_sy5DE
20b) I Don't Want to Get Wise -
From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 3rd track on the album and has
awesome energy.
https://youtu.be/0X0TX-vyxSU
20) Substitute – The Who were so unique even when they were making pop singles in 60’s. The lyrics weren't your traditional love song by any means and they would have bass guitar solos in the middle. John Entwistle is the Who MVP for the song “Substitute” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37qk8Q7xNHI
19) The Seeker – This has one of the most signature opening guitar riffs of any song from that era. This is one of the songs that rock stars from today look back to when idolizing The Who. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “The Seeker” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAbzlj3nf4E
18) You Better You Bet – This is one of those songs that conjures memories of driving around in the summer with the windows down and radio cranked up - back in the early 80’s. Still to this day, it is always great to hear this song come on the radio. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “You Better You Bet” and the definitive version is on the album “Face Dances”.
17) The Kids are Alright – There are two versions of this song – make sure you get the one with the extended drum build-up towards the end. Once again, Keith Moon’s drums add power to the pop and so he gets the Who MVP for the song “The Kids are Alright” and the definitive version is on the extended re-mastered re-released album “My Generation”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRCw9qmG12M
16) Getting in Tune – Credit must be given to Nicky Hopkins who played piano as a guest musician on this song. This is another great song from “Who’s Next” that has become one of the most played albums on classic rock radio stations of all time. John Entwistle plays some sweet bass guitar and gets the Who MVP for the song “Getting in Tune” and the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQZapgy3Mn0
15) Behind Blue Eyes – Another beautiful but powerful song from the pen of Pete Townshend on the album “Who’s Next”. It’s a song that means different things to everyone that listens to it – which I think is always a sign of true poetry. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “Behind Blue Eyes” and the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg_TRaiWj4o
14) We're Not Gonna Take It – The Who knew how to end an album – with triumphant, explosive and powerful anthems. This is the final song of “Tommy” and is therefore the climatic ending of the film and multiple stage productions. The Who performed this song as the sun rose at Woodstock in a very iconic moment. Roger Daltrey is the Who MVP for the song “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy” although by all means check out the multiple live recordings of this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqmC1T9rukk
13) Bargain – All Who members were so important on every song on the album “Who’s Next” but Keith Moon plays the drums frenetically throughout and so he gets the Who MVP for the song “Bargain”. Once again, there are many great live recordings of this song but the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ka_pPf7OqiE
12) Summertime Blues (live version) – This is probably the most played live recording in classic rock radio history. As with other songs that The Who covered (this was originally done by Eddie Cochran) they made it their own, completely reinvented it and turned into a new genre of music: punk rock/blues which The Who describe as “Maximum R&B”. All the members are important on this song but the Who MVP goes to John Entwistle on bass and the definitive version is on the album “Live at Leeds”.
11) Going Mobile – This song probably has the best opening acoustic guitar riff in any rock song. Once again, this is another great song to roll down the windows of the car and crank up the stereo. Pete Townshend is the Who MVP for the song “Going Mobile” and the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToxymSLzJeM
10b) All This Music
Must Fade -
From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the lead track on the album and
definitely kicks it off with the energy of The Who!
https://youtu.be/QpKhGNaiS6c
10) Who Are You – Once again, there is another great moment in the Who rockumentary “The Kids Are Alright” of The Who recording this song. You can see that even after the years of conflicts in the band, that they had a lot of fun with each other and loved being in the band. Keith Moon looked like such a cutup and it is extra sad to know that he died not too long after recording this album. The Who MVP is Roger Daltrey and the definitive version is the album “Who Are You”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNbBDrceCy8
9) I Can See For Miles – I heard Pete Townshend was disappointed that this song didn't go to number one in the charts but I have to believe that he’s happy that it went on to be one of the most played rock songs in classic rock radio history. If you want to classify it as “psychedelic rock” then it is the best of that genre. Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “I Can See For Miles” and the definitive version is on the album “The Who Sell Out”.
8) The Real Me – This song captures the listener’s attention at the beginning of the album “Quadrophenia”. There is a fairly unusual bridge in the song where there are only bass guitar, drums and the lead vocal. All members of The Who are extremely important in the album but the Who MVP goes to John Entwistle on bass for the song “The Real Me” and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2h1MY70uag
7) 5:15 – As with a lot of the songs on “Quadrophenia”, this song vacillates between sadness, anger, exuberance and disenchantment (perhaps the four personalities tearing the main character Jimmy apart). John Entwistle has a famous bass solo that he plays on the live performances of this song. But I am going to give the Who MVP to Pete Townshend for his writing, vocals and guitar work on the song “5:15” and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC9YY1urT8Q
6) Love, Reign O'er Me – Once again, The Who know how to end an album (Quadrophenia) with a triumphant, powerful and beautiful song. All the members of The Who rose to the occasion on this song and ended a perfect album perfectly. But I have to give the Who MVP to Roger Daltrey for just incredible vocal performance on the song “Love, Reign O’er Me” and the definitive version is on the album “Quadrophenia”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDbAtWpoA6k
5) I Can't Explain – This was the first single by The Who in 1965 (not including singles released as The High Numbers) and so it marks their beginning and subsequently 25 years later being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on their first ballot and also marking their 50th anniversary tour in 2015. It has power pop packed into two minutes. Keith Moon is the Who MVP for the song “I Can’t Explain” and the definitive version is on the album “Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3h--K5928M
4) My Generation – This song is famous for so many reasons: the title track from The Who’s debut album, the song that The Who would smash their instruments to in the 60’s, the song that Keith Moon blew up his drum kit to on the Smothers Brothers TV show (as seen in the opening of the rockumentary “The Kids Are Alright” where Pete Townshend received hearing damage), the song with an extended bass solo in the middle, and the song with the lyrics that made it the first of many Who anthems “hope I die before I get old”. John Entwistle gets the Who MVP for his most famous bass solo and the definitive version is on the album “My Generation”.
3) Pinball Wizard – The story goes that Pete Townshend wrote this song because he knew one of the main rock critics in England loved pinball. It turned out to be one of the most important hits The Who ever had which made the album “Tommy” a huge success and saved The Who from bankruptcy (you can only smash your instruments for so long before money becomes an issue). Pinball became a great symbol in the story of “Tommy” as well – that we are more than just our earthly senses – hence why the deaf, dumb and blind boy could become the pinball wizard. Pete Townshend gets the Who MVP for the song “Pinball Wizard” for his writing, guitar and vocal work and the definitive version is on the album “Tommy”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFrDpx7zLtA
2) Baba O'Riley – This is the song known to rock novices as “teenage wasteland”. It is a key song in what was going to be a double album “Lifehouse” but instead kicked off arguably the greatest rock album ever made “Who’s Next”. This is one of The Who’s great rock anthems that they played famously at “Live Aid” and “The Concert for NYC”. The Who MVP goes to Roger Daltrey for incredible vocals and the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2KRpRMSu4g
1) Won't Get Fooled Again – When anyone makes a list like this, they know there will be an argument over what song should be #1. But the one thing that can’t be argued with is this song is over 8 minutes long so that means more Keith Moon on drums, more John Entwistle on bass, more Roger Daltrey on vocals, and more Pete Townshend on guitar. It became their best rock anthem and would close their concerts for many years to come and so is only fitting that it closes this list. The Who MVP goes to Keith Moon for a drum riff that together with Roger Daltrey’s scream towards the end of the song is perhaps rock’s most iconic moment! And the definitive version is on the album “Who’s Next”.
But wait, there’s more …
There are a lot of hard-core Who fans out there with many requests of songs to be added to the list, so let’s continue:
101b) She Rocked My
World - From The Who's 2019 album release entitled "Who". This is a great
album. I didn't want to re-arrange my song list so I am inserting the songs from
the new album in my list. This is the 11th track on the album and you can
hear how The Who continue to explore new musical territories.
https://youtu.be/QSaMjzbJrtg
101)
Doctor Jimmy
Definitive album - Quadrophenia
Who MVP – Keith Moon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYjgWTctQR0
102)
Sally Simpson
Definitive album - Tommy
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
103)
However Much I Booze
Definitive album – Who By Numbers
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
104)
Boris The Spider
Definitive album – Meaty Beaty Big & Bouncy
Who MVP – John Entwistle
105)
Dogs Part 1 & 2
Definitive album – Two’s Missing (compilation album)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
106)
Let’s See Action
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
107) The
Rock
Definitive album – Quadrophenia
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
https://youtu.be/AGxFvswt2hM?list=RDAGxFvswt2hM
108)
Cache Cache
Definitive album – Face Dances
Who MVP – John Entwistle
109)
Early Morning Cold Taxi
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Keith Moon
110)
Relay
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
https://youtu.be/DFvY04byQ5M?list=RDDFvY04byQ5M
111)
Glittering Girl
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out (bonus track)
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
112)
Love is Coming Down
Definitive album – Who Are You
Who MVP – John Entwistle
113)
Fortune Teller
Definitive album – Live at
Leeds
Who MVP – Keith Moon
114)
Daily Records
Definitive album – Face Dances
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
115)
Tattoo
Definitive album – Live at
Leeds
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
https://youtu.be/AJ56ygTFhyo?t=2m44s
116)
Music Must Change
Definitive album – Who Are You
Who MVP – John Entwistle
https://youtu.be/pDkrMi8B15U?t=3s
117) In
a Hand or a Face
Definitive album – Who By Numbers
Who MVP – Keith Moon
118) Dig
Definitive album – Iron Man (Townshend solo album)
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
119)
It’s Hard
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
120) The
Ox
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – John Entwistle
121)
Christmas
Definitive album – Tommy
Who MVP – Keith Moon
122)
Daddy Rolling Stone
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7m4o9yQmqE
123)
Time Is Passing
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
124)
Fire
Definitive album – Iron Man (Townshend solo album)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
125) In
The City
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – Keith Moon
https://youtu.be/t7NA5iEM_zs?list=RDt7NA5iEM_zs
126) I
Don’t Mind
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
127)
Little Billy
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
128) Did
You Steal My Money?
Definitive album – Face Dances
Who MVP – John Entwistle
129)
Barbara Ann
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus
track)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
130)
They Are All In Love
Definitive album – Who By Numbers
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
131)
Odorono
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
132) How
Can You Do It Alone?
Definitive album – Face Dances
Who MVP – John Entwistle
133) I
Need You
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – Keith Moon
134)
It’s Not Enough
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
135) You
Stand By Me
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
136) Cry
If You Want
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – John Entwistle
137)
It’s Not True
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Keith Moon
138)
It’s Your Turn
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
https://youtu.be/XZXxjmJK6iA?list=RDXZXxjmJK6iA
139)
Circles (Instant Party)
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
140)
I’ve Been Away
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
141)
Shout & Shimmy
Definitive album – Who's Missing
Who MVP – Keith Moon
142)
Saturday Night's All Right
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
https://youtu.be/SdGc-RJ0_wU?t=19
143)
Smash The Mirror
Definitive album – Tommy
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
144)
Doctor, Doctor
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
145)
Motoring
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Keith Moon
146)
Real Good Looking Boy
Definitive album – Then and Now
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
https://youtu.be/aNP2jxAdpk8?list=RDaNP2jxAdpk8
147)
Instant
Party Mix
Definitive album – My Generation (bonus track)
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
148)
Someone’s Coming
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out (bonus
track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
149) Man
With Money
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus track)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
150) Put
The Money Down
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
151)
Bony Moronie (live)
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65iQjB_GZvM
152)
Water (live)
Definitive album – Who’s Next (bonus track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
153)
Melancholia
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – Keith Moon
154)
Anytime You Want Me
Definitive album – My Generation (bonus track)
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
155)
Don’t Look
Away
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
156)
Please Please Please
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – John Entwistle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZ0iQvRhYOU
157)
Heat Wave
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – Keith Moon
158)
Lubie Come Back Home
Definitive album – My Generation (bonus track)
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
159)
Glow Girl
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
160)
Disguises
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – John Entwistle
161)
Roadrunner (live)
Definitive album – Who’s Next (bonus track)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
162) Old
Red Wine
Definitive album – Then & Now
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
163)
Black
Widow's Eyes
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
164)
Batman
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
165)
Good Lovin’ (live)
Definitive album – BBC Sessions
Who MVP – Keith Moon
166) Tea
& Theatre
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
167)
Armenia City
in the Sky
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
168) Run
Run Run
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – John Entwistle
169)
Rael (parts 1 & 2)
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out
Who MVP – Keith Moon
170) Be
Lucky
Definitive album – The Who Hits 50
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
171)
God Speaks
Of Marty Robbins
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
172) A
Man is a Man
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – John Entwistle
173)
Dancing in the Streets
Definitive album – BBC Sessions
Who MVP – Keith Moon
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkYKcGPSo20
174)
Just You and Me, Darling
Definitive album – BBC Sessions
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
175)
Mike Post
Theme
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
176) Cook's County
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – John Entwistle
https://youtu.be/hHFW-_ozu9w?list=PLcqJOKqk2mRKqlSQMpe5ampwv31OUcg_A
177)
Jaguar
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out (bonus
Track)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
178)
Here For More
Definitive album – Who’s Missing
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
179)
Wire & Glass
(Sound Round/Pick Up The Peace/Unholy Trinity/Trilby's Piano/Endless
Wire/Fragments)
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
180) The
Quiet One
Definitive album – Face Dances
Who MVP – John Entwistle
181) Now
I’m a Farmer
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Keith Moon
182)
I've Known No War
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
183)
No Road
Romance
Definitive album – Who Are You
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
184)
When I Was a
Boy
Definitive album –
Who's
Missing
Who MVP – John Entwistle
185)
Bucket T
Definitive album – A Quick One (bonus track)
Who MVP – Keith Moon
186) One
Life's Enough
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
187)
Relax
Definitive album – The Who Sell Out
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
188)
It's In You
Definitive album – Face Dances (bonus track)
Who MVP – John Entwistle
189) I’m
a Man
Definitive album – My Generation
Who MVP – Keith Moon
190) Two
Thousand Years
Definitive album – Endless Wire
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
191)
We Got a Hit
Definitive album – Endless Glass
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
192) One
At A Time
Definitive album – It’s Hard
Who MVP – John Entwistle
193)
Underture
Definitive album – Tommy
Who MVP – Keith Moon
194)
Welcome
Definitive album – Tommy
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
195)
Mirror Door
Definitive album – Endless Glass
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
196) Coca Cola Commercial
Definitive album – 30 Years of Maximum R&B
Who MVP – John Entwistle
197) We
Close Tonight
Definitive album –
Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Keith Moon
198) See
My Way
Definitive album – A Quick One
Who MVP – Roger Daltrey
199)
Cousin Kevin
Model Child
Definitive album – Odds & Sods
Who MVP – Pete Townshend
200)
Why Did I Fall For That
Definitive album – It's Hard
Who MVP – John Entwistle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jFCUp-d9Xk
Honorable Mentions:
201) Dance To Keep from Crying
https://youtu.be/NBendsEKJCY
202) Got Nothing to Prove
https://youtu.be/f2FZmbB7B-M
203) This Gun Will Misfire
https://youtu.be/dNqIgRblUnI
204) Danny and My Ponies
https://youtu.be/7gyFAzxVHPQ
About the author: Garrett Jennings is a freelance writer and life-long fan of The Who (and rock music). I plan on blogging additional Top 100 lists from different musical artists. You can follow me on Twitter at @GarJennings
For the Top 100 Songs of Pete Townshend click here
For the Top 200 Songs of The Beatles click here
Click here for the Ultimate Battle
of the Bands