"Who Are You" by The Who

Ask the eternal question with The Who's powerful 1978 rock anthem, "Who Are You"! The title track from their acclaimed album, this song merges hard rock energy with complex synthesizer layers, creating an iconic and instantly recognizable sound questioning identity itself.

Released as the lead single from the 1978 album of the same name, "Who Are You" became a major international hit for The Who. Featuring intricate arrangements blending Pete Townshend's hard rock guitar and pioneering synthesizer work, it showcased their evolution while retaining their signature power, sadly marking Keith Moon's final album appearance.

This dynamic 1978 hard rock track, pushing towards heavy metal intensity in parts, captivates with its driving rhythm, multi-layered soundscape, and Roger Daltrey's iconic titular refrain. "Who Are You" remains one of The Who's most enduring and complex hits from the late 70s.

SONG MEANING: Reportedly inspired by Pete Townshend's real-life encounter involving heavy drinking and members of the Sex Pistols, the song explores themes of identity crisis, disillusionment, and self-reflection. The repeated question "Who are you?" reflects a deep uncertainty about oneself and others in a confusing world, prompted by seeing his own reflection and not recognizing himself.