The Who’s Name: Evolution and Significance
The British rock band, The Who, has won the hearts of generations since their formation in 1964. However, it's worth noting that the iconic band did not start out with their famous moniker. They had to go through several name changes until they settled on a name that would reflect their unique sound and spirit. Discover the fascinating story behind how The Who got their name.
Early Names of The Who
Originally, the band was known as The Detours, a title chosen by vocalist Roger Daltrey. When John Entwistle, a bassist, joined, he brought Pete Townshend on board to play as an extra guitarist. Daltrey handled the vocals and drums. However, the band experienced early hardships, including losing their drummer and changing vocalists. Each member brought a unique touch to the music, making it difficult to settle on a stable lineup. It was during these early days that the band decided to change their name.
The Name Shifts: From The Detours to The High Numbers
Back then, Daltrey recruited John Entwistle, who brought Townshend on board. The band initially played covers of pop and jazz, but their musical direction shifted as they began to develop a unique sound of their own. After they became aware of another band using the name The Detours, they decided to change to a different name. Suggestions like The Hair were thrown around, but the band settled on The Who, a name suggested by Richard Barnes, a lifelong friend of Townshend.
Richard Barnes suggested the name The Who, which was catchy and fun, with the potential for humorous play on words. The band adopted this name, which stuck and became synonymous with their innovative sound and theatrical live performances. The name itself became a playful reference to the "who took over" any room they entered, reflecting their status as a dominant force in 1960s British rock. They further solidified their identity with singles like "Zoot Suit I'm the Face," which, despite failing to reach the top 50, helped establish their reputation as The Who.
Final Changes and Success
After a brief period under management by Hubert Hancock, who renamed the band The High Numbers to appeal to the Mod scene, the group reverted to using their original name, The Who. They were initially known for their covers, but soon began developing their original material. The band's uniqueness in playing styles—Daltrey's vocals, Entwistle's melodic bass, and Townshend's intricate guitar work—made them stand out. Hubert Hancock's management was replaced by Kit Lambert and Chris Stamp, who were instrumental in forming the band's image and presenting them to a wider audience. Their recognition as a band that was "like no other" led to their success and enduring legacy.