Writing The Who’s ‘My Generation’ With Pete Townshend

The Who's "My Generation" wasn't born from inspiration—it was commissioned. In a rare interview, Pete Townshend reveals how six fans at London's Goldhawk Club in 1965 directly asked him to write an anthem for their post-war generation. This conversation uncovers how a simple request transformed into rock's definitive youth statement, complete with its rebellious stutter and blues foundations. As Townshend releases his solo anthology during our own era of generational flux, the story behind rock's most famous declaration of youth proves more relevant than ever.

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive your own bingo card!

Songs Referenced

• "My Generation" by The Who
• "Can't Explain" by The Who
• "Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere" by The Who
• "Smokestack Lightning" by Howlin' Wolf
• "For Your Love" by The Yardbirds
• "Pinball Wizard" by The Who
• "I'm a Boy" by The Who
• "Pictures of Lily" by The Who
• "I Can See for Miles" by The Who
• "Stuttering Blues" by John Lee Hooker

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices