I have read the biographies of three out of the four members of The Who: Keith Moon, Pete Townshend, and Roger Daltrey. Daltrey’s biography is the second best – I’ll leave it to you to guess which is the first – unless John Entwistle’s surprises me, but I don’t think it will.
The book starts in reverse, beginning in the present and then moving back to the past. From there, it follows a linear path, covering Daltrey’s childhood, his first experiences with music, the early and difficult years, the formation of The Who, and their challenging yet carefree journey to success. However, it also takes several leaps back to the present and shifts between then and now, giving it a cinematic storytelling style.
What makes the book stand out is that it doesn’t focus solely on the music but delves into Roger Daltrey’s life. As he often reiterates in his narrative, Townshend’s psychological struggles were the source of inspiration, shaping the compositions and ultimately bringing success. Daltrey was the medium – he tried to understand what was in the guitarist’s mind, interpret it, find meaning, and relate to it (which wasn’t always easy) to sing it convincingly.
Daltrey’s life and experiences are fascinating, full of surprises. For someone familiar with the band and its tumultuous history, this biography might serve as the “missing link,” providing insight into behaviors and events that were pivotal in The Who’s story. However, the strength of this book is that it’s not just for fans; it’s accessible to anyone curious enough to flip through its pages.
Daltrey analyzes the relationships between the members, their quirks, and what united them. He is self-critical, acknowledges his mistakes, critiques, blames, and apologizes for what he considers his errors—not only in his musical career but also in his personal life. This honesty and sincerity are what make the book genuine and compelling. Don’t expect to read the boasts of one of the most successful and recognizable rock singers in the world. Instead, expect to uncover what marked and influenced this remarkable journey.
