When it comes to legendary albums, Who’s Next by The Who is always in the mix. Released on August 2, 1971, the album evolved from Pete Townshend’s ambitious but scrapped Lifehouse project and became one of the most celebrated records of all time. While its hits like “Baba O’Riley” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again” are etched in rock history, there are still surprising details about this iconic album that even die-hard fans might not know. Here are five fascinating facts about Who’s Next.
- A Synthesizer Revolution
The use of synthesizers on Who’s Next wasn’t just decorative—it was revolutionary. Pete Townshend used a Lowrey organ and early synthesizers to create the iconic loops on “Baba O’Riley” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” blending analog warmth with futuristic sounds. At the time, integrating synthesizers so prominently in rock music was groundbreaking and set the stage for its use across genres. - The Mystery of the Monolith
The Who’s Next cover photo is one of rock’s most iconic images. For decades, its exact location remained a mystery. Recently, the Derbyshire Times revealed the photo was taken near Temple Normanton, Derbyshire, during the band’s journey back to London on May 15, 1971. Photographer Ethan Russell, inspired by 2001: A Space Odyssey, directed the band to mimic scenes from the film. The monolith, now partially buried on private farmland, has become a pilgrimage site for fans—just be sure to ask the landowner for permission before recreating the moment. - The Forgotten Concept Album
Who’s Next was born out of the ambitious Lifehouse project, which envisioned a multimedia rock opera exploring themes of technology, individuality, and spiritual enlightenment. While Lifehouse was shelved due to its complexity, many of its songs—like “Behind Blue Eyes” and “Bargain”—found new life on Who’s Next. - A Gift from Joe Walsh
Pete Townshend’s signature guitar sound on the album came from a 1959 Gretsch 6120 gifted to him by Joe Walsh. This guitar, paired with a Fender Bandmaster amp, became a defining element of Who’s Next’s unique sound, proving that the right gear can make rock history. - The CSI Connection
The tracks “Baba O’Riley” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again” gained an unexpected second life as theme songs for the CSI franchise. “Baba O’Riley” was used for CSI: NY, while “Won’t Get Fooled Again” became synonymous with CSI: Miami, making Who’s Next a surprising pop culture staple for crime show fans.
Who’s Next remains a masterpiece, blending raw power, innovative technology, and timeless songwriting. Whether you’re blasting “Baba O’Riley” for the millionth time or discovering its deeper cuts, this album continues to prove why The Who are rock legends.
