The 1967 release by The Who that helped The Rolling Stones supplant them: A Tale of Rivalry and Redemption
In the tumultuous world of rock and roll, few bands have left as indelible a mark as The Rolling Stones. Their enduring legacy is a testament to their raw energy, timeless music, and the enduring appeal of their rebellious spirit. But it was a pivotal moment in 1967 that not only showcased The Who's support for their rivals but also highlighted the stark contrast in their musical styles and the potential for rivalry to fuel artistic growth.
The Who, already making waves with their anthemic 'My Generation,' took a subtle dig at the earlier Buddy Holly hit, suggesting a desire to forge their own path. Meanwhile, The Rolling Stones were riding high, having taken Buddy Holly's 'That'll Be the Day' to number three in the charts in 1964. But their success was soon threatened by a series of events that could have landed them in serious legal trouble.
In 1967, Keith Richards' Redlands home was raided by the police, leading to his sentencing for drug-related charges. Simultaneously, Mick Jagger faced a similar situation, though with a more lenient outcome. The Who, recognizing the potential consequences for their contemporaries, sprang into action. Keith Moon, along with his girlfriend Jan and the band's road manager, John Wolfe, took to the streets of London, holding signs that read 'Free Keith!' and 'Stop Pop Persecution!'.
Moon, Townshend, and Daltrey, joined by Entwistle (who was on honeymoon), recorded two Stones songs, '(This Could Be) The Last Time' and 'Under My Thumb', with the intention of releasing a single to raise funds for the Stones' bail. The single, released in record time, proclaimed a special announcement: 'The WHO consider Mick Jagger & Keith Richards have been treated as scapegoats for the drug problem...'.
The Who's actions not only demonstrated their solidarity with The Stones but also inadvertently showcased the stark contrast in their musical styles. The Who's recordings, while well-intentioned, lacked the energy, grit, and libido that defined The Stones' music. This highlighted how The Stones were more vital, alive, and energetic, and how superior they were at making rock and roll music.
The Stones' best music was yet to come, with albums like 'Beggars Banquet', 'Let It Bleed', 'Sticky Fingers', and 'Exile on Main St' cementing their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. The Who, while continuing to produce hits and acclaimed albums, couldn't quite match the Stones' raw, unfiltered rock and roll. The rivalry, in this case, served as a catalyst for artistic growth, pushing both bands to new heights of creativity and influence.
In the end, the 1967 incident not only showcased the power of solidarity among musicians but also underscored the importance of artistic rivalry in driving innovation and excellence in the music industry.
