Few bassists could hold their own against the wailing Roger Daltrey, the spirited Pete Townshend, and the raucous Keith Moon, but The Who’s stalwart John Entwistle was always the player for the job. He was the pulse of the British rock outfit, rounding out Moon’s vicious rhythms and contributing to the foundation upon which Daltrey and Townshend fronted some of the band’s most iconic performances.
Videos by American Songwriter
Entwistle was not only an integral part of the band, but he also played an essential role in rock. We’ve compiled 5 of The Who’s classic live moments in memory of the bassist who passed away on this day (June 27) in 2002.
1. “A Quick One (While He’s Away)” (Live at The Rolling Stones Rock And Roll Circus, 1968)
Performing for the concert film The Rolling Stones Rock And Roll Circus in 1968, the band showcased “A Quick One (While He’s Away).” The song features the group flailing about, delivering an animated show, all except Entwistle, who was cool as a cucumber carrying the band’s rhythm with unwavering precision.
2. “Magic Bus” (Live At Leeds)
The Who’s glorious performance of “Magic Bus” live at Leeds makes for an exhilarating watch, and while Entwistle doesn’t get much screen time in the below footage, he can be heard thumbing along to the tune’s Bo Diddley beat. Daltrey, Townshend, and Moon may be the visible standouts on stage, but it’s the bassist’s steadfast skills that are deserving of praise.
3. “Who Are You” (Ramport Studios, 1978)
In London’s Ramport Studios, the band can be seen laying down one of their signature songs, “Who Are You.” The camera pans across the players, landing every so often on a tranquil Entwistle. Either with bass in hand or tracking vocals at the mic, he’s a solid, unflappable component in the full-throttle band.
4. “Pinball Wizard” (Live at Woodstock, 1969)
The Who’s Woodstock performance saw them impeccably deliver their iconic “Pinball Wizard.” Daltrey is haloed in a pale light, flapping his fringed arms as he acts out the song’s trademark theatricality. In the shadows is Entwistle, glimpses of whom reveal the same sturdy artist, giving an effortless show of an involved song.
5. “Won’t Get Fooled Again” (Live at Shepperton Studios, 1978)
Live at Shepperton Studios in 1978, Daltrey, Townshend, and Moon are again the eye candy, bounding around the stage and careening their bodies to the atmospheric opening of the hit “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” Meanwhile, a serene Entwistle stands downstage, patiently waiting to rip the anthemic tune to shreds with the calculated hammering of his fingers.
Photo by Bill Tompkins/Getty Images
