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Pete Townshend

Live Performances by Pete Townshend

  • In January 1979, when Pete Townshend performed "We Won't Get Fooled Again" at the Secret Policeman's Ball, he was in an interesting phase of his caree... Read Full Description >

    In January 1979, when Pete Townshend performed "We Won't Get Fooled Again" at the Secret Policeman's Ball, he was in an interesting phase of his career. Just prior to this live performance, Townshend released his first solo album, "Empty Glass," in 1980, which would go on to garner critical acclaim and commercial success. This live performance is notable not only for its high energy and political fervor but also because it showcased Townshend's commitment to social causes, which was a critical theme during the Secret Policeman's Ball events. The concert was part of a series organized by Amnesty International, aimed at raising awareness and funds for human rights abuses. Townshend's involvement further solidified his reputation as an artist who leveraged his music for activism, aligning well with the song’s themes of rebellion and disillusionment.

Let My Love Open The Door - Live Performance at Prince's Trust Rock Gala

Prince's Trust Rock Gala
London, United Kingdom

June 5, 1982 | Video Length: 2:37
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  • In June 1982, Pete Townshend performed “Let My Love Open the Door” at the Prince's Trust Rock Gala alongside notable musicians like Mick Karn, Mid... Read Full Description >

    In June 1982, Pete Townshend performed “Let My Love Open the Door” at the Prince's Trust Rock Gala alongside notable musicians like Mick Karn, Midge Ure, and Phil Collins. This live performance came shortly after the release of his solo album "All the Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes," which had debuted in 1982 and showcased Townshend’s continued exploration of his sound post-The Who. The album featured a mix of rock and introspective lyrics, reflecting Townshend’s evolving artistry. This performance marked an interesting time in Townshend’s career, as he was stepping into a more prominent solo identity while still being recognized for his legacy with The Who. Notably, this event was part of a charitable initiative by Prince Charles, highlighting the intersection of music and philanthropy during Townshend's career. The collaboration with such esteemed musicians at the gala underscored Townshend’s influence and the camaraderie of artists in the early 1980s rock scene.

Pete Townshend performs 'Slit Skirts' live at Dominion Theatre, London

Dominion Theatre
London, United Kingdom

July 21, 1982 | Video Length: 4:50
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  • In July 1982, during the performance of "Slit Skirts" at the Dominion Theatre in London, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase of his career. Thi... Read Full Description >

    In July 1982, during the performance of "Slit Skirts" at the Dominion Theatre in London, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase of his career. This live recording occurred shortly after the release of his 1982 album, "All the Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes." The album displayed Townshend's exploration of more personal and introspective themes, setting it apart from his work with The Who. Notably, the live performance featured the renowned Phil Collins on drums, adding a unique dynamic to the show. "Slit Skirts" itself is one of the standout tracks from the album, reflecting Townshend's ongoing evolution as a solo artist. This concert marked a time of reinvention for Townshend, as he navigated the challenges of post-Who fame while delving into new musical territories and personal narratives.

  • In late 1984, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase within his career, following his tenure with The Who and experimenting with solo work. The li... Read Full Description >

    In late 1984, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase within his career, following his tenure with The Who and experimenting with solo work. The live recording of "The Sea Refuses No River" from the Brixton Academy on November 30, 1984, captures a poignant moment during his solo tour. This performance occurred shortly before the release of his second solo album, "White City: A Novel," which came out in 1985. The song itself reflects Townshend's introspective lyrical style, often blending personal themes with broader social commentary. Notably, this period marked a resurgence of his creativity after years of focusing primarily on The Who, and it showcased his ability to resonate with an audience on a more intimate level as a solo artist. This live performance exemplifies his dual identity as both a frontman and a deeply reflective songwriter.

  • In January 1985, Pete Townshend was at an interesting juncture in his career, performing live at the Brixton Academy. This period marked a time of tra... Read Full Description >

    In January 1985, Pete Townshend was at an interesting juncture in his career, performing live at the Brixton Academy. This period marked a time of transition for Townshend, as he was exploring his identity as a solo artist alongside his legacy with The Who. Prior to this performance, he released the album "White City: A Novel," in 1985, which reflected his personal experiences and featured a more introspective style. The live recording of “After The Fire” captures not only his enduring musicianship but also indicates his shift towards addressing more serious themes in his work. This concert was part of a broader effort to reinvigorate his solo career and connect with audiences on a deeper level, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling with powerful rock, a hallmark of his legacy.

Pete Townshend's Deep End Live at Brixton Academy - Full Concert

Brixton Academy
London, United Kingdom

November 1, 1985 | Video Length: 45:32
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  • On November 1, 1985, Pete Townshend performed at the Brixton Academy in London during a significant period of his career where he was transitioning ba... Read Full Description >

    On November 1, 1985, Pete Townshend performed at the Brixton Academy in London during a significant period of his career where he was transitioning back into the spotlight after years of relative quiet as a solo artist. This live recording comes just shortly after the release of his album "White City: A Novel," which was released in 1985 and reflects Townshend's exploration of personal and social themes through music. The "Deep End Live" performance featured a mix of his solo work and classic Who songs, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to rock music. Notably, guitarist Dave Gilmour of Pink Floyd participated in this concert, adding notable star power to the event. This collaboration exemplified Townshend’s ability to blend his music with that of other prominent artists, further solidifying his standing in the rock landscape during the mid-1980s.

  • In 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Face to Face" live at the Midem in Cannes, he was in a transitional phase of his career. Just a year earlier, ... Read Full Description >

    In 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Face to Face" live at the Midem in Cannes, he was in a transitional phase of his career. Just a year earlier, in 1985, he released his solo album "White City: A Novel," which showcased his evolving artistry, reflecting themes of isolation and societal change. This live performance occurred during a period when Townshend was exploring new musical avenues outside of The Who, signaling a shift toward more personal and narrative-driven work. Notably, the Midem festival is an influential event in the music industry, highlighting Townshend's prominence as both a rock icon and a serious musician during this era. His performance of "Face to Face," with its introspective lyrics and rich instrumentation, encapsulates his ability to blend storytelling with rock, further establishing his legacy beyond his contributions to his band.

Pete Townshend's Deep End - Performance of 'Rough Boys' at MIDEM, Cannes

MIDEM
Cannes, Germany

January 29, 1986 | Video Length: 4:47
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  • In January 1986, during the live recording at MIDEM in Cannes, Pete Townshend was actively promoting his solo concept album "White City: A Novel," whi... Read Full Description >

    In January 1986, during the live recording at MIDEM in Cannes, Pete Townshend was actively promoting his solo concept album "White City: A Novel," which had been released in 1985. This album marked a notable moment in Townshend's career, as it explored themes of alienation and social issues, fitting into the broader narrative of his work beyond The Who. The performance features his band, Pete Townshend’s Deep End, highlighting the collaboration with talented musicians, including David Gilmour of Pink Floyd fame. Notably, the song "Rough Boys," performed during this show, encapsulates Townshend's exploration of personal identity, a recurring theme in his solo endeavors. This recording was part of a concert series renowned for showcasing significant artists, reinforcing Townshend's status as a pivotal figure in rock music beyond his contributions to The Who.

Pete Townshend's Deep End - 'Face The Face' Live at MIDEM in Cannes

MIDEM
Cannes, France

January 29, 1986 | Video Length: 5:51
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  • In January 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Face the Face" with his band Deep End at MIDEM in Cannes, he was in a period of revitalization followi... Read Full Description >

    In January 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Face the Face" with his band Deep End at MIDEM in Cannes, he was in a period of revitalization following a hiatus from the Who. At this time, Townshend had released his solo album "White City: A Novel," which came out in 1985. This album marked a significant return to solo performing, featuring a more introspective and narrative-driven approach compared to his earlier works with the Who. The "Face the Face" live performance showcased his experimental and collaborative spirit, bringing a blend of rock and theatricality to the stage. During this era, Townshend was also exploring themes of personal struggle and societal issues, evident in the lyrics and arrangements of his contemporary work. The Rockpalast recording not only highlights his musicianship but also captures a pivotal moment in his post-Who career.

  • In January 1986, when Pete Townshend performed at the Rockpalast show in Cannes, he was amidst a significant phase in his solo career, showcased by th... Read Full Description >

    In January 1986, when Pete Townshend performed at the Rockpalast show in Cannes, he was amidst a significant phase in his solo career, showcased by the release of his album "White City: A Novel" in 1985. This album marked a departure from his work with The Who and revealed his growing interest in storytelling through music. "Give Blood," performed during this live recording, is one of the standout tracks that crystallizes his evolving artistic identity. During this era, Townshend was gaining recognition as a solo artist while also grappling with the underlying themes of personal and social responsibility that permeated his work. The performance not only highlights his skillful guitar work and dynamic stage presence but also serves as a testament to his resilience after the tumultuous years with The Who, as he carved out a unique niche in the rock landscape of the mid-1980s.

  • In 1986, Pete Townshend was in a dynamic phase of his career, primarily known for his role as the lead guitarist and primary songwriter for The Who. T... Read Full Description >

    In 1986, Pete Townshend was in a dynamic phase of his career, primarily known for his role as the lead guitarist and primary songwriter for The Who. The live recording of "Save It For Later," featured on the album "Deep End Live!" captures his solo artistry during a time when he was exploring new musical avenues separate from the band. Notably, "Save It For Later" is a song originally by The English Beat, but Townshend's rendition showcases his knack for infusing rock elements into diverse genres. The "Deep End Live!" album was released at a time when Townshend was actively engaged in live performances, proving his resilience and adaptability as a solo artist after The Who's initial disbandment in 1982. The live shows from this period were also characterized by a strong emphasis on his burgeoning solo work, allowing him to reconnect with fans through both his iconic past and innovative present.

Pete Townshend Performs 'Rough Boys' at Brooklyn Academy of Music

Brooklyn Academy of Music
Brooklyn, NY, United States

November 30, 1992 | Video Length: 4:10
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  • In late 1992, during the performance of "Rough Boys" at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Pete Townshend was in a unique phase of his career. This live r... Read Full Description >

    In late 1992, during the performance of "Rough Boys" at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Pete Townshend was in a unique phase of his career. This live recording occurred shortly after the release of his acclaimed solo album "Psychoderelict," which was released in 1993. This album marked a departure from his previous work, combining rock music with a narrative style and exploring themes of disillusionment and mental health. The live performance featured skilled musicians Simon Phillips on drums, Phil Palmer on guitar, and Pino Palladino on bass, highlighting Townshend's collaboration with talented artists. Notably, "Rough Boys," originally from his 1980 album "Empty Glass," showcases his signature blend of rock and introspective lyrics, and the live rendition emphasizes his enduring stage presence and musical evolution. At this point in his career, Townshend was also deeply involved in various multimedia projects, further illustrating his versatility as an artist.

Pete Townshend Live at Brooklyn Academy Of Music: Pschoderelict Tour Full Concert

Brooklyn Academy Of Music
Brooklyn, NY, United States

January 1, 1993 | Video Length: 2:21:46
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  • In 1993, during the "Pschoderelict Tour," Pete Townshend was promoting his solo album "Psychoderelict," which had been released later that year, marki... Read Full Description >

    In 1993, during the "Pschoderelict Tour," Pete Townshend was promoting his solo album "Psychoderelict," which had been released later that year, marking a significant moment in his career as he was transitioning further into solo work after a prolific tenure with The Who. This period reflects Townshend's exploration of multimedia storytelling and rock opera concepts, themes prominent in "Psychoderelict." The album features a mix of styles, showcasing his songwriting prowess alongside a narrative that addresses both personal and spiritual quests. Notably, the live recording from the Brooklyn Academy of Music captures classic Townshend hits like "Pinball Wizard" and "Behind Blue Eyes," indicating his rich catalog and continued presence in the rock scene. The inclusion of songs addressing existential themes and social commentary, paired with his innovative approach to live performances, illustrates Townshend’s enduring influence as a musician and songwriter.

Pete Townshend's Performance of 'Pinball Wizard' on Letterman

Ed Sullivan Theater
New York, NY, United States

June 17, 1993 | Video Length: 9:49
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  • In June 1993, during a performance of "Pinball Wizard" on the Late Show with David Letterman, Pete Townshend was promoting his album *Psychoderelict*,... Read Full Description >

    In June 1993, during a performance of "Pinball Wizard" on the Late Show with David Letterman, Pete Townshend was promoting his album *Psychoderelict*, which was released the same year. This live recording demonstrates Townshend's enduring relevance as a rock musician, even as he transitioned into a more eclectic phase in his career, incorporating elements of rock opera and storytelling into his music. The performance is notable for its energetic delivery and highlights Townshend's legacy as a key figure in rock history, particularly as a member of The Who. The event occurred during a period when he was also embracing new technologies and mediums, as evidenced by the multimedia concepts he explored in *Psychoderelict*, which includes a radio play. Townshend's appearance on a prominent talk show underscored his status as a veteran artist willing to engage with contemporary pop culture while remaining true to his musical roots.

Pete Townshend Live Performance of 'Let My Love Open The Door' at Brooklyn Academy of Music

Brooklyn Academy of Music
Brooklyn, NY, United States

August 7, 1993 | Video Length: 2:57
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  • On August 7, 1993, Pete Townshend performed "Let My Love Open the Door" at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, a notable venue reflecting his status as a p... Read Full Description >

    On August 7, 1993, Pete Townshend performed "Let My Love Open the Door" at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, a notable venue reflecting his status as a prominent rock artist. Leading up to this live performance, Townshend had recently released his solo album **"Psychoderelict"** in 1993, which showcased his evolving artistry and willingness to experiment with rock and narrative forms. The album received mixed reviews, but it was an important marker in his career as it highlighted his shift towards storytelling through music. Interestingly, this concert took place during his solo years, a period when Townshend was exploring new musical directions while also distancing himself from The Who, with whom he had achieved monumental success. This performance captures Townshend's enduring charisma and heartfelt connectivity with the audience, showcasing a blend of his classic sound and the newer influences from his solo work.

Pete Townshend Performs 'Magic Bus' Live on Later with Jools Holland

Later with Jools Holland

January 1, 1996 | Video Length: 3:25
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  • In January 1996, when Pete Townshend performed "Magic Bus" live on "Later with Jools Holland," he was in a transitional phase of his career, having re... Read Full Description >

    In January 1996, when Pete Townshend performed "Magic Bus" live on "Later with Jools Holland," he was in a transitional phase of his career, having recently released his solo album "Psychoderelict" in 1993. This project marked a significant point in Townshend's evolution as it integrated both music and a narrative concept, showcasing his prowess as a songwriter and storyteller. The live performance of "Magic Bus," a classic originally by The Who, reflects his continued connection to his past while also exploring new artistic territories. During this period, Townshend was actively engaging in various creative endeavors, including touring and collaborating with other artists. The choice to perform such a well-known track during a prominent show like "Later with Jools Holland" underscores his status as a rock icon who remains relevant years after his initial fame with The Who. Townshend's capacity to reinvent himself while honoring his musical roots is a testament to his enduring influenc

Pete Townshend Live at The Fillmore - Full Concert

The Fillmore
San Francisco, CA, United States

April 30, 1996 | Video Length: 1:49:32
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  • In 1996, during the performance captured in the live recording at The Fillmore, Pete Townshend was in a phase of his career characterized by a focus o... Read Full Description >

    In 1996, during the performance captured in the live recording at The Fillmore, Pete Townshend was in a phase of his career characterized by a focus on his solo work and collaborations outside of The Who. This period came after the release of his album "Psychoderelict" in 1993, a rock opera that showcased his continued exploration of themes related to human relationships and the individual psyche. During this time, Townshend was known for his introspective songwriting, often reflecting on his personal experiences and artistic struggles. The Fillmore concert featured him accompanied by Jon Carin on keyboards, highlighting an intimate setting that differed from the larger scale of The Who's performances. Notably, this era saw Townshend actively engaging with his fan base through performances and unique artistic expressions, reaffirming his place as a pivotal figure in rock music.

Pete Townshend Live in Bethel NY 1998 - Full Concert

Yasgur's Farm
Bethel, NY, United States

August 15, 1998 | Video Length: 57:06
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  • In August 1998, Pete Townshend was performing during a pivotal phase in his solo career, having released his album "Psychoderelict" in 1993. This albu... Read Full Description >

    In August 1998, Pete Townshend was performing during a pivotal phase in his solo career, having released his album "Psychoderelict" in 1993. This album explored themes of identity and the struggles of finding one's place, showcasing Townshend's signature storytelling through music. The live performance recorded in Bethel, NY, reflects his continuous evolution as an artist, blending both new material and classic tracks. Notably, during this era, Townshend was also deeply invested in his creative expression outside of The Who, focusing on solo projects and theatrical works. His setlist from this concert features a mix of revered tracks, including "Behind Blue Eyes" and "You Better You Bet," highlighting the enduring popularity of his work. The historic venue, Yasgur's Farm, also adds a layer of nostalgia, as it is notably recognized as the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, bridging the generational gap in music history.

Pete Townshend Live at the House of Blues Chicago - Full Concert

House of Blues
Chicago, IL, United States

July 29, 1999 | Video Length: 1:8:48
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  • By July 29, 1999, when Pete Townshend performed live at the House of Blues in Chicago, he was primarily known for his longstanding association with Th... Read Full Description >

    By July 29, 1999, when Pete Townshend performed live at the House of Blues in Chicago, he was primarily known for his longstanding association with The Who, one of rock's most iconic bands. The concert took place shortly after he released his solo album, "Psychoderelict," in 1993, which delved into themes of aging and artistic identity, showcasing Townshend's reflective songwriting style. This performance was part of a series of solo shows that allowed him to connect intimately with fans, further showcased his versatility as an artist beyond the band framework. The appearance of Eddie Vedder as a special guest highlights Townshend’s influence on contemporary musicians and his enduring legacy in rock. The charity event format reflects Townshend’s commitment to philanthropy, particularly in music and the arts, reinforcing his role not just as an artist but as a social advocate.

Paul Weller & Pete Townshend Perform 'So Sad About Us' Live at Royal Albert Hall

Royal Albert Hall
London, United Kingdom

November 30, 1999 | Video Length: 3:09
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  • In November 1999, during the performance at the Royal Albert Hall alongside Paul Weller, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase of his career. Thi... Read Full Description >

    In November 1999, during the performance at the Royal Albert Hall alongside Paul Weller, Pete Townshend was in a transitional phase of his career. This concert occurred shortly after the release of his 1998 solo album "Psychoderelict," which marked a significant departure from his earlier work, incorporating more experimental elements and narrative-driven concepts. "Psychoderelict" was notable for its multimedia approach, blending music with a theatrical performance that underlined Townshend’s unique artistic vision. During the live recording of "So Sad About Us," Townshend showcased not only his guitar prowess and songwriting skills but also his commitment to collaboration, as evident in his partnership with Weller. This period in Townshend's career reflected his ongoing evolution as an artist, showcasing both nostalgia for his rock roots and an openness to new musical landscapes. The performance at such a prestigious venue emphasized his enduring legacy in rock music.

  • In January 2000, when Pete Townshend performed "Mary" live, he was in a period of transitioning back into solo performance after a lengthy focus on hi... Read Full Description >

    In January 2000, when Pete Townshend performed "Mary" live, he was in a period of transitioning back into solo performance after a lengthy focus on his band, The Who, and their extensive catalogue. This performance was part of a series of solo shows, following the 1996 release of his album "Psychoderelict," which showcased his shift towards more personal songwriting and storytelling. During this time, Townshend was exploring themes of loss, redemption, and existential struggle, which resonate in the song "Mary." Additionally, his live performances often included a mix of new material and classic hits, reflecting his ongoing evolution as an artist. Interesting to note is that "Mary" represents the introspective side of Townshend's songwriting, highlighting his ability to convey deep emotion and connect with the audience in an intimate setting.

Pete Townshend - Live Performance of 'I'm One' at Bush Hall

London

November 30, 2010 | Video Length: 3:05
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  • In November 2010, when Pete Townshend performed "I'm One" live at Bush Hall, he was in a prominent phase of his solo career. The performance is part o... Read Full Description >

    In November 2010, when Pete Townshend performed "I'm One" live at Bush Hall, he was in a prominent phase of his solo career. The performance is part of a series of shows that featured material from his work outside The Who, reflecting his ongoing artistic exploration. Just before this live recording, in 2006, he released the album "Psychoderelict," which showcased his talent as a songwriter and narrative musician. Notably, "I'm One" is a track from The Who's 1973 album "Quadrophenia," further cementing Townshend's legacy both as a solo artist and a member of the iconic rock band. This recording illustrates his dedication to performing both classic and personal material, emphasizing his significant contributions to rock music. Additionally, Townshend's performance style and musicianship at the Bush Hall reflects years of experience and evolution as an artist, making this live recording an important milestone in his career.

Pete Townshend and Jeff Beck Perform 'Love Reign O'er Me' at London Concert

Queen Elizabeth Hall
London, United Kingdom

June 11, 2012 | Video Length: 6:03
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  • By June 2012, Pete Townshend's career had seen a significant evolution, particularly with his work as a solo artist and his involvement with The Who. ... Read Full Description >

    By June 2012, Pete Townshend's career had seen a significant evolution, particularly with his work as a solo artist and his involvement with The Who. Prior to this live recording at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Townshend had released "Quadrophenia: Live in London" in 2013, which highlighted his enduring legacy and the ongoing relevance of his music. The performance of "Love Reign O'er Me" alongside Jeff Beck at this event demonstrated Townshend's ability to connect emotionally through his songwriting, as well as his collaboration with prominent guitarists. This concert was part of a special celebration featuring the BBC Concert Orchestra, showcasing compositions tied to London, marking a moment of artistic reflection and collaboration for Townshend. The performance emphasized both the nostalgia of The Who's catalog and Townshend's status as a rock icon, further solidifying his contribution to the music scene over the decades.

Pete Townshend's Acoustic Performance of 'Won't Get Fooled Again' at Berklee

Berklee Performance Center
Boston, MA, United States

October 12, 2012 | Video Length: 6:34
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  • In October 2012, during his solo performance at the Berklee Performance Center, Pete Townshend delivered an acoustic rendition of "Won't Get Fooled Ag... Read Full Description >

    In October 2012, during his solo performance at the Berklee Performance Center, Pete Townshend delivered an acoustic rendition of "Won't Get Fooled Again," a classic song originally by The Who. By this point in his career, Townshend had released his fourth solo studio album, "Psychoderelict," in 1993, although he was primarily focused on The Who's reunion tours and projects. Notably, this live performance came after a significant hiatus from solo work, emphasizing his iconic status as a member of The Who while still showcasing his songwriting prowess. The acoustic arrangement reflects his ability to reinterpret his well-known work in a fresh way, highlighting his contributions to music beyond the band's legendary electric sound. Townshend's live performances are often marked by their intimacy and depth, further solidified by his extensive experience as a rock innovator and performer.

Pete Townshend Performs 'Drowned' Live at the Royal Albert Hall

Royal Albert Hall
London, United Kingdom

Date Unknown | Video Length: 5:24
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  • In the live performance of "Drowned" at the Royal Albert Hall, Pete Townshend was showcasing his evolution as a solo artist. This performance occurred... Read Full Description >

    In the live performance of "Drowned" at the Royal Albert Hall, Pete Townshend was showcasing his evolution as a solo artist. This performance occurred during a period where he was deeply engaged in solo projects, following The Who's groundbreaking work in the 1970s. Specifically, this concert is associated with his album "Psychoderelict," released in 1993. This record marked Townshend's return to a more personal and narrative-driven approach, reflecting his growth and introspection following significant life changes. The Royal Albert Hall concert also serves as a notable highlight in his career, as it was part of a benefit concert series that emphasized his ongoing commitment to philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fight against cancer. Townshend’s ability to infuse deep emotion into his performances, as exemplified in "Drowned," underscores his enduring relevance as a poignant lyricist and musician in the rock landscape.

  • In the live performance of "Give Blood" featured in the video, Pete Townshend was at a crucial juncture in his solo career, following the release of h... Read Full Description >

    In the live performance of "Give Blood" featured in the video, Pete Townshend was at a crucial juncture in his solo career, following the release of his album "White City: A Novel" in 1985. This record marked a significant shift for Townshend, as it delved into personal and social themes through a more narrative and cohesive format. "Give Blood," a track from the album, reflects his willingness to explore complex topics in his songwriting. Notably, the live performance with the Deep End band showcases his commitment to sonic experimentation and emotional depth, traits that have defined his work both as a member of The Who and as a solo artist. The backing band for this performance included notable musicians like David Gilmour, which further highlights the caliber of collaboration surrounding Townshend during this phase of his career.

  • In the live recording of "Save It For Later," Pete Townshend, alongside The Deep End, showcases his musical prowess during a period marked by a pivota... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "Save It For Later," Pete Townshend, alongside The Deep End, showcases his musical prowess during a period marked by a pivotal transition in his career. This performance took place in the early 1990s, following the release of his 1989 album, "Another Scoop." This compilation included previously unreleased material and demonstrated Townshend's continued evolution as an artist beyond his work with The Who. Notably, the choice of "Save It For Later," originally a song by the English Beat, highlights Townshend's influence and versatility, as he often covered works of other artists during this time. The concert, lauded as one of the greatest, captures his dynamic stage presence and the deep connection he shared with the audience, further solidifying his status as a legendary rock performer.

  • In the live recording titled "Deep End Live," Pete Townshend was at a pivotal point in his solo career following his involvement with The Who. This pe... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording titled "Deep End Live," Pete Townshend was at a pivotal point in his solo career following his involvement with The Who. This performance was recorded in 1986 and highlighted his venture into solo artistry after the release of his album "White City: A Novel" in 1985. "Deep End Live" showcases Townshend's ability to combine rock with theatrical elements, reflecting his songwriting depth and stage presence. The concert features a collaboration with musicians like Chucho Merchán, adding a rich texture to the performance. Interestingly, this period was marked by Townshend's exploration of his personal and artistic identity, leading to his integration of a more diverse musical style, which included influences of jazz and world music, evident in this particular live rendition.

  • In the live recording "Pete Townshend gets mad at a Roadie... Live at Kilburn," captured in 1977, Pete Townshend was at a significant point in his car... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording "Pete Townshend gets mad at a Roadie... Live at Kilburn," captured in 1977, Pete Townshend was at a significant point in his career as a solo artist and member of The Who. Prior to this performance, Townshend had released his acclaimed solo album "Who Came First" in 1972, showcasing his ability to create music outside of the band. By 1977, he was primarily focused on The Who, who were in the midst of their "Who Are You" album cycle, which would be released in 1978. This era was marked by a transition for Townshend, as he grappled with the pressures of fame and the band's dynamics. The Kilburn concert is notable not only for the performance but also for Townshend's candidness with the crew, reflecting his passionate yet sometimes volatile nature as a performer. This candidness contributed to his reputation as a compelling live act, making moments like these memorable for fans.

  • In the performance of "A Little Is Enough," captured during a concert with The Deep End, Pete Townshend showcased his evolving artistry following a si... Read Full Description >

    In the performance of "A Little Is Enough," captured during a concert with The Deep End, Pete Townshend showcased his evolving artistry following a significant phase in his career. This song originates from his 1982 solo album "All the Best Cowboys Have Chinese Eyes," which marked a departure from The Who's earlier rock sound, showcasing Townshend’s exploration of new musical styles and personal introspection. Notably, the live recording features contributions from his band, highlighting Townshend's ability to blend energetic stage presence with poignant lyrical themes. Additionally, this performance reflects a period when Townshend was navigating both solo success and his legacy with The Who, ultimately solidifying his status as a prominent figure in rock music. The concert also underscores the camaraderie and dynamic energy within his live performances, resonating with fans and marking a pivotal moment in his evolution as an artist.

  • In 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Slit Skirts" live as part of the "Deep End" series, he was in a transitional phase in his solo career, followi... Read Full Description >

    In 1986, when Pete Townshend performed "Slit Skirts" live as part of the "Deep End" series, he was in a transitional phase in his solo career, following the success of his 1985 album "White City: A Novel." This album marked a significant moment as Townshend explored personal themes and storytelling, reflecting his experiences and views during that time. The "Deep End" concerts featured a mix of his solo work and The Who's classic repertoire, allowing him to showcase a diverse range of music. Notably, "Slit Skirts," a poignant track from "White City," tackled complex topics such as love, loss, and the passage of time, showcasing Townshend’s evolution as a songwriter. This era was also marked by his collaboration with various musicians, which contributed to the vibrant sound of the live performances and allowed him to engage with a broader audience.

  • In the live recording of "Give Blood," featuring David Gilmour, Pete Townshend was at a significant point in his solo career. This performance took pl... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "Give Blood," featuring David Gilmour, Pete Townshend was at a significant point in his solo career. This performance took place during the promotion of his 1986 album "White City: A Novel," which addresses a range of themes including personal struggles and social issues. "Give Blood" stands out as one of the album's most notable tracks, showcasing Townshend's powerful songwriting and distinct guitar work. The collaboration with David Gilmour highlights Townshend's willingness to work with other iconic musicians, amplifying the track's emotional depth. At this time, Townshend was also known for his role as the guitarist and primary songwriter for The Who, and he often blended his solo works with their legendary rock sound, making live performances like this one particularly compelling for fans.