Song Meaning & Facts: My Generation by The Who

 

Along with The Beatles and Rolling Stones, The Who was one of the legendary bands of the 60s. They were unique in the sense that The Who made much more 'heavier' music, but they themselves considered to be a pop band. Pete Townshend, the band's primary song writer, continually attempted to write hit songs, but The Who never had a number one! Nevertheless, their music has had a lasting impacting on rock n' roll. 

"My Generation" is among many iconic songs that The Who produced in the 60s. The song is consistent with some memorable sound effects and lyrics. One such incident is Roger Daltrey's continuous stutter throughout the song. My analysis on this is that it's an evidence of acid rock. Daltrey is simulating the effect of being high on drugs while singing. Apparently, use of drugs/ counterculture was prominent at the time.

One line that stood out of the song is "I hope I die before I get old." This line is so phenomenal! It was absolutely out of mainstream at the time. I believe this line marks the definitive inception of punk rock genre. It challenged the way 'old' folks perceived counterculture of the 60s. My only interpretation of this line is that being old is an obstacle to contemporary youth movement, thus dying early is for the betterment of the advancement of the society.

I'd love to hear what you think of the song, especially if you a big Who fan. Leave a comment below...

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People try to put us d-down (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Just because we get around (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I hope I die before I get old (Talkin' 'bout my generation)

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby

Why don't you all f-fade away (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
And don't try to dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm not trying to cause a big s-s-sensation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm just talkin' 'bout my g-g-g-generation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby

Why don't you all f-fade away (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
And don't try to d-dig what we all s-s-say (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm not trying to cause a b-big s-s-sensation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
I'm just talkin' 'bout my g-g-generation (Talkin' 'bout my generation)

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby

People try to put us d-down (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Just because we g-g-get around (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Things they do look awful c-c-cold (Talkin' 'bout my generation)
Yeah, I hope I die before I get old (Talkin' 'bout my generation)

This is my generation
This is my generation, baby