In 1967, The Who were no longer the group of mods who had set the British rock scene alight with “My Generation” two years earlier. The band was undergoing a metamorphosis, and this was reflected in their music. Psychedelia was making its appearance, and the album “The Who Sell Out”, released at the end of the year, was the perfect example.
In 1967, The Who caused a sensation at the legendary Monterey Festival, alongside Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. Their electrifying performance put the band firmly in the rock pantheon.
That year, The Who not only redefined its identity, but also laid the foundations for rock music in the years to come. With boldness and creativity, the band proved that it was possible to combine rock ‘n' roll with acerbic social commentary and sonic experimentation.
The album: The Who Sell Out
A parodic cover, songs interspersed with fake adverts, a satire on the commercialisation of music: welcome to ‘The Who Sell Out'.
The first thing that strikes you about The Who Sell Out is undoubtedly its cover. It shows the band members in grotesque advertising situations, denouncing consumer society with humour and audacity. The tone is set: this album will be like no other.
From the very first notes of ‘Armenia City in the Sky', the first track on the album, the band plunge us into a psychedelic and experimental atmosphere. But it's in the interstices of the songs, filled with fake jingles and adverts, that the criticism of the commercialisation of music reaches its climax.
“The Who Sell Out” is also the album where the band pushes the boundaries of rock. The vocal harmonies became more sophisticated, the arrangements more daring, and the lyrics more introspective. “I Can See For Miles”, the jewel in the crown, is the perfect example of this musical daring, combining sharp guitar riffs, powerful rhythms and soaring vocal harmonies.
But that's not all. “Mary Anne with the Shaky Hand” explores folk sounds, while “Silas Stingy” sounds like something straight out of a musical. In this way, The Who demonstrate that it is possible to remain faithful to their rock roots while exploring new musical terrain.
“The Who Sell Out” was a real shock when it was released, and continues to influence musicians to this day. With this album, The Who proved that rock could be more than just music: it could be a tool for social comment, experimentation and innovation.
The Who Sell Out” may not have met with the immediate commercial success of some of their other albums, but it was nonetheless a major turning point in The Who's career and in the history of rock in general. An album to be rediscovered, savoured and listened to again and again.
The song: Tattoo
Among the gems on The Who's 1967 album “The Who Sell Out”, the song “Tattoo” by The Who deserves particular attention. In this delicate, resolutely rock melody, the British pioneers encapsulated all the complexity of adolescence, the call of rebellion and the quest for identity.
“Tattoo” opens with a melancholy guitar melody that sets a nostalgic mood. The voice of Roger Daltrey, then aged just 23, adds an emotional depth that reinforces this impression of nostalgia. The harmony vocals, with Pete Townshend in support, provide an extra texture, adding to the complexity of the song.
The lyrics of “Tattoo” tell the story of two brothers who get tattoos to prove their virility and autonomy. It's a parable about adolescence and the quest for identity through rebellion. The song captures with moving precision the need to assert oneself and the anguish of growing up, universal feelings that have enabled “Tattoo” to reach a wide audience.
“Tattoo” also presents a critical view of the social pressure to conform to male norms. The refrain “Welcome to my life, tattoo / I'm a man now, thanks to you” highlights the link between virility and violence, a theme that still resonates today.
“Tattoo” may be a lesser-known song by The Who, but it's a hidden treasure that deserves special attention. It's a hymn to youth, a celebration of rebellion and an incisive social critique, all wrapped up in a poignant rock melody. More than fifty years after its release, “Tattoo” remains a powerful and relevant work. A rock classic worth rediscovering.
Where to listen to The Who Sell Out?
- Listen to The Who Sell Out on Spotify
- Listen to The Who Sell Out on Deezer
- Listen to The Who Sell Out on Youtube