Switched on Pop
Writing The Who’s ‘My Generation' With Pete Townshend
Mar 25, 2025
Pete Townshend, the legendary guitarist and songwriter for The Who, shares the fascinating backstory of their iconic anthem 'My Generation.' Commissioned by six fans, the track captures the rebellious spirit of 1960s youth. Townshend reflects on the song's spontaneous lyrics, musical influences, and the societal pressures that shaped its creation. He also discusses its controversial reception, including the BBC ban, and how its message resonates in today's generational landscape, proving its legacy transcends time.
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Quick takeaways
- Pete Townshend reveals that The Who's 'My Generation' was commissioned by fans seeking a voice for their post-war disconnection.
- The song's themes of youth disenfranchisement and class consciousness continue to resonate across generations, highlighting ongoing struggles for identity.
Deep dives
The Inspiration Behind 'My Generation'
The song 'My Generation' was inspired by a creative brief from fans who resonated with The Who's previous work, particularly the song 'I Can't Explain.' Fans expressed a strong emotional connection to the music and urged songwriter Pete Townsend to create an anthem that represented their feelings of disconnection and search for identity after the societal upheavals of the Great War. This request influenced Townsend as he sought to articulate the frustrations and aspirations of youth during that time. His reflection on conversations with his audience underscored a sense of duty to use his music as a means of representation for a generation feeling unheard and needing a voice.
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