Description
The Who – Hits 50! – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Records
Released on October 27, 2014, Hits 50! is a comprehensive greatest hits collection celebrating 50 years of The Who, one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Spanning from their early mod-era singles in the 1960s to their later work, the album serves as a definitive overview of their evolution, from raw R&B-infused rock to ambitious concept albums and anthemic stadium rock.
This collection was released in conjunction with The Who’s 50th-anniversary tour, making it both a retrospective for longtime fans and an accessible introduction for newcomers. Unlike previous compilations like The Who: The Ultimate Collection or Meaty Beaty Big and Bouncy, Hits 50! includes lesser-known tracks alongside the iconic hits, giving a broader picture of their legendary discography.
The Who’s music is defined by powerful guitar riffs, anthemic choruses, introspective lyrics, and explosive energy, all driven by Pete Townshend’s visionary songwriting, Roger Daltrey’s commanding vocals, John Entwistle’s thunderous bass lines, and Keith Moon’s frenetic drumming. Hits 50! captures their evolution from rebellious teenage angst to introspective, complex rock narratives.
Key Tracks and Highlights
I Can’t Explain (1965) – The Who’s debut single, blending raw, energetic guitar work with mod-influenced rhythms, setting the stage for their early success.
My Generation (1965) – One of rock’s greatest anthems, featuring rebellious lyrics and a bass solo by John Entwistle that was revolutionary for its time.
Substitute (1966) – A sharp, ironic song about identity and self-doubt, showing Townshend’s lyrical wit and storytelling abilities.
The Kids Are Alright (1966) – A melodic and heartfelt song, reflecting The Who’s ability to mix youthful rebellion with emotional depth.
Pinball Wizard (1969) – One of the most famous tracks from their rock opera Tommy, filled with acoustic power chords and theatrical energy.
Baba O’Riley (1971) – Featuring iconic synthesizer loops, driving guitar riffs, and an anthemic chorus, this song became one of the most defining rock tracks of all time.
Behind Blue Eyes (1971) – A melancholic ballad that transforms into a hard-hitting rock track, showcasing Daltrey’s emotional vocal range.
Won’t Get Fooled Again (1971) – A powerful anti-establishment anthem, featuring one of the greatest scream vocals in rock history and Townshend’s signature windmill guitar moves.
Love, Reign O’er Me (1973) – A dramatic and emotional track from Quadrophenia, demonstrating The Who’s ability to create cinematic, grandiose rock.
Who Are You (1978) – One of their most famous songs, combining prog-rock elements with hard-hitting guitar riffs and introspective lyrics.
You Better You Bet (1981) – A new wave-influenced track, reflecting The Who’s adaptation to 1980s rock production while keeping their classic style intact.
Be Lucky (2014) – The only new track on the album, recorded specifically for Hits 50!, showing that The Who could still write anthemic rock songs even after five decades.
Hits 50! was praised for being one of the most comprehensive Who compilations, covering their biggest hits, deeper cuts, and later career material. While some fans noted the absence of certain tracks (Magic Bus, Long Live Rock), the collection does a fantastic job of representing The Who’s diverse musical evolution.
The album coincided with The Who’s 50th-anniversary tour, further solidifying their status as one of the most enduring rock bands in history.
Hits 50! is a fantastic retrospective that captures The Who’s rebellious spirit, musical innovation, and timeless anthems. Whether you’re a longtime fan revisiting their classics or a newcomer looking for a perfect introduction, this compilation serves as a powerful reminder of why The Who remains one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Zoot Suit
I Can’t Explain
Anyway, Anyhow, Anywhere
My Generation
Substitute
I’m A Boy
Happy Jack
Pictures Of Lily
I Can See For Miles
Magic Bus
Pinball Wizard
The Seeker
Won’t Get Fooled Again (Single Edit)
Baba O’Riley
Bargain
Join Together
5:15
Squeeze Box
Who Are You
Real Good-Looking Boy
Be Lucky
