The Who

Who's Next

First released1971

Who's Next, The Who's fifth studio album released in August 1971, was recorded primarily at The Who House in Ramport Street, London, which the band had converted into a residential studio. The album was produced by The Who themselves along with Glyn Johns, an experienced engineer and producer who played a crucial role in shaping the album's sound. The recordings took place over several months in 1971, with the band experimenting with synthesizers, particularly Pete Townshend's use of the ARP synthesizer, which became a defining sonic characteristic of the album. The production marked a significant shift toward more elaborate studio arrangements and overdubbing compared to The Who's previous work, reflecting the band's ambitions during the early 1970s progressive rock era. Notable tracks like "Baba O'Riley" and "Won't Get Fooled Again" showcased Townshend's innovative use of synthesizers and the band's refined songwriting and arrangement skills.