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.