Pete Townshend's Guitars Throughout His Career with The Who

Pete Townshend, the iconic guitarist and songwriter of The Who, has a rich history with his electric guitars. His musical journey is as dynamic as the band's legendary performances. This article delves into the guitars Pete used during different stages of The Who's career, from the early 1960s to the present day.

The Early Years: Rickenbacker and Gibson SG

As a member of The Who, Pete Townshend started his career with a Rickenbacker. This type of guitar was perfect for his distinctive sound and style, setting the foundation for his future choices. In the early 1970s, Pete switched to a Gibson SG, which became a cornerstone of The Who's sound, especially during the band's iconic tours and albums like "Tommy" and "Quadrophenia."

A Time of Change: Gibson Les Paul and Schecter

From 1973 to 1979, Pete shifted his allegiance to the Gibson Les Paul. His choice was not just a matter of personal preference; the Les Paul offered versatility and robustness, aiding Pete in his complex musical arrangements. Later, in 1979 to 1985, he adopted a Schecter guitar, which played a significant role during The Who's transitional period. This time also marked a change in the band's approach to their sound, leading to new experiments and innovations.

The Fender Strats: Pete's Longest Relationship

The Fender Stratocaster has been with Pete Townshend the longest, from 1989 until the present day. Known for its versatility and its ability to produce a variety of sounds, the Stratocaster has become an integral part of Townshend's live performances and studio recordings. Pete's relationship with this guitar is deeply rooted in his musical philosophy and his desire for a versatile instrument.

Smashing Guitars: Pete's Notable Guitar Usage

Pete Townshend is famous for smashing guitars, which is not only a theatricality but also a tangible way of marking transitions in the band's music. In 1969, Pete was known to have smashed 35 guitars in just one year. Though this behavior might seem destructive, it is also a testament to his artistic expression and the abrasiveness of his playing style. One can often see Pete Townshend with numbered Stratocasters, showcasing his ongoing relationship with the instrument.

Other Notable Guitars: Les Paul and Early Instruments

Throughout his career, Pete Townshend has also used other notable guitars such as a Gibson ES335 and an Epiphone. In his early days, he has been spotted with a Rickenbacker or an Epiphone, signifying a variety of sounds and styles that he experimented with. It is clear that Pete's choice of guitars has been a reflection of his musical growth and the evolution of The Who as a band.

Understanding Pete's Guitar Choices

Understanding Pete Townshend's guitar choices is essential to appreciating the music and the artist. Each guitar has a unique sound, and Pete has been able to leverage these differences to produce the innovative and diverse sounds that characterize The Who's music. From the hard-hitting tones of the Gibson SG, the warmth of the Les Paul, the versatility of the Stratocaster, and the distinct sounds of other instruments, Pete's collection of guitars represents a journey through the evolution of rock music.

Pete Townshend's guitars have become as iconic as the band itself. They represent not just a preference for sound, but a method of musical expression and a symbol of the band's resilience and creativity. Whether smashing them on stage or using them to create their signature riff, Pete's guitars are at the heart of The Who's legacy.

Concluding Thoughts

The history of Pete Townshend's guitars offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of The Who's sound and Pete's artistic journey. From the early Rickenbackers to the iconic Stratocasters, each guitar has played a crucial role in shaping the band's music and Pete's unique style. As The Who continues to perform and create, it is likely that Pete will continue to explore new sounds and new instruments, ensuring that his iconic guitar collection remains as rich and diverse as his music.