The Who is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, known for their electrifying live performances and timeless anthems. But what instruments do they use to create their signature sound? From Pete Townshend’s distinctive guitar riffs to Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals, The Who’s music is a masterclass in rock music. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll take a closer look at the instruments used by each member of the band, and how they contribute to The Who’s legendary sound. Get ready to rock as we explore the instruments of The Who!

The Key Players: Instruments Used by The Who

Lead Guitar

Pete Townshend, the lead guitarist of The Who, was known for his distinctive and powerful guitar style, which was a key element in the band’s sound. He primarily used two types of guitars throughout his career: the Rickenbacker 320 and the Gibson SG.

The Rickenbacker 320, also known as the “Rock’n’Roll guitar,” was one of Townshend’s favorite guitars. It was a semi-acoustic guitar with a hollow body and two pickups, which allowed him to create a wide range of sounds, from clean and jangly to distorted and powerful. Townshend famously smashed several of these guitars during live performances, earning him the nickname “The Whopper.”

The Gibson SG, on the other hand, was a solid-body electric guitar with a double-cutaway design, which allowed for easier access to the upper frets. Townshend used this guitar primarily in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and it became associated with the band’s later albums, such as “Tommy” and “Who’s Next.”

Both guitars played a significant role in The Who’s music, and Townshend’s unique playing style, characterized by his windmilling technique and aggressive use of feedback, helped to define the band’s sound. The guitar was also an important symbol of the band’s rebellious and energetic stage presence, which helped to establish The Who as one of the most influential and enduring bands of the rock era.

Bass Guitar

The bass guitar played a crucial role in The Who’s unique sound, providing a solid foundation for the band’s music. John Entwistle, The Who’s lead bassist, was known for his distinctive playing style and technical proficiency, which contributed significantly to the band’s overall sound.

Entwistle primarily used two types of bass guitars during his time with The Who: the Fender Precision Bass and the Rickenbacker 4001. The Fender Precision Bass, introduced in 1951, was one of the first electric bass guitars and became a staple instrument for many bass players, including Entwistle. The Precision Bass had a simple, yet effective design, with a slab body and a single split-coil pickup, producing a clear and punchy sound.

The Rickenbacker 4001, introduced in 1961, was another bass guitar that Entwistle favored. This model featured a hollow body and dual pickups, giving it a more rounded and versatile tone. The Rickenbacker’s unique sound can be heard prominently in many of The Who’s songs, such as “My Generation” and “Pictures of Lily.”

Entwistle’s playing style further enhanced the bass guitar’s importance in The Who’s music. He was known for his fast and agile fingerwork, often incorporating rapid scales and arpeggios into his playing. He also utilized various techniques, such as slapping and tapping, which added texture and depth to the band’s sound.

In addition to his use of Fender Precision Basses and Rickenbacker 4001s, Entwistle also experimented with custom-made basses. One of his most famous creations was the “The Ox,” a modified Fender Precision Bass with a slightly longer neck and additional pickups. This unique instrument became his trademark and contributed to his distinctive sound.

Overall, the bass guitar played a vital role in The Who’s music, and John Entwistle’s masterful playing style and use of various instruments helped shape the band’s iconic sound.

Drums

The Importance of Drums in The Who’s Music

Drums played a pivotal role in The Who’s music, providing the rhythmic foundation that drove their energetic and dynamic sound. From the early days of the band, the drums were a key element in their live performances, and their influence can be heard in many of their iconic recordings.

The Types of Drums and Percussion Instruments Used by Keith Moon and Zak Starkey

Keith Moon, the original drummer for The Who, was known for his creative and unconventional approach to drumming. He utilized a variety of drums and percussion instruments in his playing, including standard kits, timpani, and other unique instruments such as the xylophone and the glockenspiel.

Moon’s innovative use of these instruments helped to create the distinctive sound of The Who, and his style had a significant influence on rock drumming as a whole.

When Moon passed away in 1978, his son Zak Starkey took over as the band’s drummer. Starkey has continued to honor his father’s legacy by using many of the same instruments and techniques in his own playing. Like his father, Starkey is known for his creative approach to drumming and his ability to incorporate a wide range of percussion instruments into his playing.

Today, the drums remain an essential part of The Who’s sound, and their influence can be heard in the music of countless rock bands around the world.

Keyboards and Synthesizers

The Use of Keyboards and Synthesizers in The Who’s Music

The Who, a British rock band, has been known for their innovative use of instruments in their music. One such instrument that has played a significant role in their sound is the keyboard and synthesizer. These electronic instruments have added a unique texture and depth to their music, allowing them to create a distinct sound that sets them apart from other rock bands.

The Types of Keyboards and Synthesizers Used by John “Rabbit” Bundrick and Frank Simes

John “Rabbit” Bundrick and Frank Simes are the two keyboardists and synthesizers who have played with The Who throughout their career. Bundrick joined the band in 1979, and Simes joined in 1994. Both musicians have contributed to the band’s sound by using a variety of keyboards and synthesizers.

Bundrick primarily used the Yamaha CP-70 electric grand piano, which is known for its bright and clear sound. He also used the Minimoog synthesizer, which is a classic analog synthesizer known for its rich and warm sound. Additionally, he used the Roland SH-101 synthesizer, which is a versatile and powerful synthesizer that can produce a wide range of sounds.

Simes, on the other hand, used a variety of keyboards and synthesizers, including the Kurzweil K2500, which is a sample-based synthesizer known for its realistic piano and orchestral sounds. He also used the Roland VK-8M, which is a virtual keyboard that allowed him to play a variety of sounds using his feet. Additionally, he used the Roland Fantom-Xa, which is a workstation keyboard that includes a variety of sounds and features, such as a sequencer and a sampler.

Overall, the use of keyboards and synthesizers in The Who’s music has played a significant role in their sound, and the musicians who have played these instruments have contributed to the band’s unique and innovative style.

Brass and Woodwinds

The use of brass and woodwind instruments in The Who’s music

The use of brass and woodwind instruments played a significant role in The Who’s music, adding depth and complexity to their sound. These instruments were used to create dynamic contrasts, adding a sense of power and grandeur to their songs. Brass and woodwind instruments were also used to provide melodic and harmonic interest, creating memorable and catchy hooks that have become synonymous with The Who’s music.

The types of brass and woodwind instruments used by the band’s horn section

The Who’s horn section featured a variety of brass and woodwind instruments, including trumpets, trombones, saxophones, and flutes. These instruments were used to create a range of textures and moods, from the powerful and triumphant to the delicate and introspective. The band’s use of these instruments was not limited to just their studio recordings, but they also incorporated them into their live performances, creating a dynamic and engaging stage presence. The Who’s innovative use of brass and woodwind instruments in their music helped to establish them as one of the most influential and groundbreaking bands of their time.

The Evolution of The Who’s Sound

The Early Years: 1960s-1970s

The Band’s Early Influences and Sound

During the early years of The Who, the band’s sound was heavily influenced by the popular rock and roll music of the time. The band’s music drew inspiration from the likes of Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, and other early rock and roll artists. This influence is evident in the band’s early hit singles, such as “Can’t Explain” and “My Generation,” which featured a heavy emphasis on guitar-driven melodies and energetic rhythms.

The Impact of Townshend’s Songwriting and Guitar Playing

Pete Townshend, the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter, played a significant role in shaping the band’s sound during the early years. Townshend’s songwriting style, which often incorporated themes of teenage angst and social commentary, helped to establish The Who’s unique identity within the rock music scene.

Townshend’s guitar playing was also a key factor in the band’s sound. His use of unconventional techniques, such as windmilling and smashing his guitar on stage, helped to create a visual and sonic identity for the band. Additionally, Townshend’s innovative use of feedback and distortion helped to push the boundaries of what was possible with the electric guitar, paving the way for the development of new sounds and techniques in rock music.

Overall, the early years of The Who’s sound were characterized by a combination of influences from early rock and roll, Townshend’s songwriting and guitar playing, and a desire to push the boundaries of what was possible with rock music. This unique blend of influences helped to establish The Who as one of the most influential and enduring bands in the history of rock music.

The Later Years: 1970s-Present

The later years of The Who’s career marked a period of continued evolution and experimentation for the band. The group’s sound expanded beyond the traditional rock and roll format, incorporating elements of various genres, including art rock, progressive rock, and hard rock. This period saw the band’s sound mature and evolve, with each member’s unique style and approach contributing to the group’s overall sound.

One of the key factors in The Who’s sound during this period was the contributions of John Entwistle and Keith Moon, both of whom were renowned for their innovative and influential playing styles. Entwistle’s unique approach to the bass guitar, characterized by his use of heavy distortion and experimental techniques, played a significant role in shaping the band’s sound. His inventive and dynamic playing style helped to establish the bass guitar as a prominent and integral instrument in rock music.

Keith Moon’s drumming, on the other hand, was characterized by his energetic and explosive style, which was instrumental in shaping the band’s sound during this period. Moon’s playing was characterized by his use of unconventional techniques, such as playing with reckless abandon and incorporating a wide range of percussion instruments into his playing. His dynamic and creative approach to drumming helped to push the boundaries of what was possible on the instrument, and his influence can still be heard in the music of today.

In addition to the contributions of Entwistle and Moon, the later years of The Who’s career also saw the band incorporate a wide range of other instruments and sounds into their music. This included the use of synthesizers, mellotrons, and other electronic instruments, which helped to create a more expansive and experimental sound. The band’s continued evolution and experimentation during this period helped to solidify their status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their time.

The Who’s Impact on Rock Music

The Who’s Influence on Guitar Rock

The Who’s influence on guitar rock is undeniable. Their innovative techniques and unique sound paved the way for many rock guitarists and bands that followed.

Townshend’s innovative guitar techniques

Pete Townshend, the band’s lead guitarist, was known for his innovative guitar techniques. He was one of the first guitarists to use feedback as an integral part of his sound, creating a unique distorted sound that became a hallmark of The Who’s music. Townshend also popularized the use of the power chord, a simple three-note chord that is played on the lower strings of the guitar, which became a staple of rock music.

The band’s influence on rock guitarists and bands

The Who’s influence on rock guitarists and bands is widespread. Many guitarists have cited Townshend as an influence, including Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Steve Howe of Yes, and Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen. The band’s unique sound and style also influenced many other bands, including The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash.

The Who’s impact on guitar rock is evident in the countless guitarists and bands that have followed in their footsteps. Their innovative techniques and unique sound continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

The Who’s Influence on Punk and Alternative Rock

The band’s raw energy and rebellious attitude

The Who’s music was characterized by its raw energy and rebellious attitude, which had a significant impact on punk and alternative rock bands that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. Their music was marked by the use of powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and powerful vocals, which created a sound that was both energetic and rebellious. This sound was reflected in the music of many punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their footsteps.

The impact of The Who’s music on punk and alternative rock bands

The Who’s music had a profound impact on punk and alternative rock bands that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. Many of these bands were influenced by The Who’s raw energy and rebellious attitude, and they sought to emulate this sound in their own music. The Who’s use of powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and powerful vocals inspired many punk and alternative rock bands to create their own distinctive sound.

One of the most notable examples of The Who’s influence on punk and alternative rock is the band The Ramones. The Ramones were heavily influenced by The Who’s music, and they sought to emulate their raw energy and rebellious attitude in their own music. The Ramones’ music was marked by the use of powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and powerful vocals, which created a sound that was both energetic and rebellious. This sound was reflected in the music of many punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their footsteps.

Another example of The Who’s influence on punk and alternative rock is the band The Clash. The Clash were heavily influenced by The Who’s music, and they sought to emulate their raw energy and rebellious attitude in their own music. The Clash’s music was marked by the use of powerful guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and powerful vocals, which created a sound that was both energetic and rebellious. This sound was reflected in the music of many punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their footsteps.

Overall, The Who’s music had a significant impact on punk and alternative rock bands that emerged in the 1970s and 1980s. Their raw energy and rebellious attitude inspired many of these bands to create their own distinctive sound, and their influence can still be heard in the music of punk and alternative rock bands today.

The Who’s Influence on Concert Experiences

The band’s iconic live performances and stage shows

The Who’s concert experiences have been widely regarded as some of the most iconic and influential in rock music history. Their live performances were known for their high-energy, explosive, and theatrical nature, which set a new standard for rock concerts. The band’s use of elaborate stage sets, pyrotechnics, and other special effects, along with their innovative use of instruments, helped to create a unique and immersive concert experience that captivated audiences and influenced many other bands to follow suit.

The impact of The Who’s concert experiences on rock music

The Who’s concert experiences had a significant impact on rock music and influenced many other bands and musicians. Their use of pyrotechnics, which were previously unheard of in rock concerts, became a standard feature of many rock concerts and live performances. The band’s use of elaborate stage sets and theatrical performances also influenced many other bands and musicians, who began to incorporate similar elements into their own live shows. Additionally, The Who’s concert experiences helped to redefine the role of a rock musician as a performer and an entertainer, rather than just a musician. The band’s use of instruments such as the guitar, bass, and drums in innovative ways, helped to push the boundaries of what was possible with these instruments and influenced many other musicians to experiment with new sounds and techniques.

FAQs

1. What instruments are used in The Who?

The Who is a British rock band known for their energetic live performances and innovative use of instruments. The band’s sound is characterized by the use of electric guitars, bass guitar, drums, and vocals. However, The Who also incorporates other instruments such as piano, organ, and synthesizers to create their unique sound.

2. What is the role of the guitar in The Who’s music?

Guitar is a key instrument in The Who’s music. The band’s lead guitarist, Pete Townshend, is known for his distinctive and powerful playing style, which incorporates a wide range of techniques, including power chords, feedback, and windmilling. Townshend’s guitar playing is a prominent feature of The Who’s sound, and he uses it to create dynamic and powerful musical statements.

3. What is the role of the bass guitar in The Who’s music?

The bass guitar is an essential component of The Who’s sound. John Entwistle, The Who’s original bassist, was known for his distinctive and innovative playing style, which included using the bass as a lead instrument and incorporating techniques such as fingerpicking and slapping. Entwistle’s bass playing was a key element of The Who’s sound, and his contributions to the band’s music continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.

4. What is the role of the drums in The Who’s music?

Drums are a fundamental instrument in The Who’s music. Keith Moon, The Who’s original drummer, was known for his powerful and dynamic playing style, which incorporated a wide range of techniques, including cymbal crashes, rolls, and fills. Moon’s drumming was a key element of The Who’s sound, and his contributions to the band’s music continue to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.

5. What other instruments are used in The Who’s music?

In addition to the traditional rock instruments of guitar, bass, and drums, The Who also incorporates a variety of other instruments into their music. These include piano, organ, and synthesizers, which are used to create a wide range of textures and sounds. The use of these instruments allows The Who to create a unique and distinctive sound that has become one of the defining features of their music.