“One thing is certain, had I not met Tom Wright, The Who would never have become successful.” Pete Townshend.
Through the fabulous photographs, many of which have never been seen before, we see the band backstage, onstage, on tour, at rehearsal, at ease, in studio, at home. The photos will be accompanied by extended captions providing background details of the time, the people and the places.
As well as The Who, Tom Wright toured with the Rolling Stones, the Faces, The James Gang, J. D. Elvis Costello, The Eagles and many more, documenting their performances and life on the road.
Tom Wright met Pete Townshend at Ealing Art College in the early ’60s and was among the first to recognise his talent, enthusiastically spreading the word about Pete’s playing. The two spent countless hours together, and Tom’s vast record collection and deep musical knowledge played a pivotal role in shaping The Who’s early sound.
The Who’s early American tours were pivotal in shaping their legacy. From 1967 to 1969, they built their US audience with explosive live performances, the release of ‘I Can See for Miles’, and the debut of ‘Tommy’ in Detroit.
His candid collection of images captures The Who on and off stage, from their raw energy at the Fillmore to quiet moments on the road.
Through his lens, he captures a defining period of the late ’60s — the band’s relentless energy, financial struggles, and artistic breakthroughs, including the recording of ‘I Can See for Miles’ and the explosive debut of rock opera Tommy.
Accompanying these striking images are candid reflections from Pete, offering rare personal insight into The Who’s evolution during this time.
Special editions signed by Pete Townshend are available for pre-order at Omnibus Press and @roughtrade.
A book about The Who by Tom Wright who is responsible for expanding Pete’s musical knowledge and consciousness.
The story of The Who’s momentous first tours of America told through fabulous photos by the band’s official photographer and tour manager Tom Wright.
Tom Wright first met Pete Townshend at Ealing Art School in the early 60s. He became The Who’s official tour photographer and manager from 1967 in the US, also managing the Grande Ballroom in Detroit where The Who’s rock opera Tommy premiered. He was much more than the band’s photographer, he was a friend and photographed them right up to their farewell tour in 1991. Tom’s vast record collection and musical influences had a big impact on the band in their early years.
Their Generation covers The Who’s first tours of North America, a hugely creative time with explosive performances both on and off stage, the time of their US hit ‘I Can See for Miles’ and much more. - Amazon Price € 37,53
Pre-order your copy of Their Generation: The Who In America 1967-69 signed by Pete Townshend via this link.
