About the song
When we think of defining moments in the history of rock music, “My Generation” by The Who stands out as a seminal track that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of youth rebellion and the quest for identity during the 1960s. Released in 1965 as the title track of their debut album, this song quickly became an anthem of a generation yearning for change and self-expression.
“My Generation” is renowned for its raw energy and defiant attitude, capturing the essence of the youth culture that was sweeping across the world at the time. The song’s memorable opening line, “People try to put us d-down (Talkin’ ’bout my generation),” sets the tone for a powerful declaration of independence and resistance against societal norms. It was a bold statement that resonated deeply with young people who felt misunderstood and marginalized.
The track features some of the most iconic elements of early rock music, including Pete Townshend’s driving guitar riffs, Roger Daltrey’s impassioned vocals, and the energetic drumming of Keith Moon. John Entwistle’s bass lines provide a solid foundation, underpinning the song with a sense of urgency and rhythm. The combination of these elements creates a sound that is both exhilarating and revolutionary.
One of the most memorable aspects of “My Generation” is its famous conclusion, where Daltrey delivers a powerful and emphatic vocal outburst, making the line “Hope I die before I get old” one of the most quoted and emblematic phrases of the era. This declaration of youthful defiance and the desire to remain free from the constraints of aging and conformity captured the zeitgeist of the 1960s in a way that few songs have matched.
“My Generation” not only helped establish The Who as one of the leading bands of the era but also solidified its place in rock history as a timeless anthem of youth and rebellion. For those who appreciate the intersection of music and social commentary, this track remains a powerful reminder of the energy and spirit of a generation that sought to make its mark on the world.
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Lyrics
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 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-generation (talkin’ ’bout my generation)
My generation
This is my generation, baby
Why don’t you all f-fade away (talkin’ ’bout my generation)
And don’t try d-dig what we all s-s-say (talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m not trying to cause a big sensation (talkin’ ’bout my generation)
I’m just talkin’ ’bout my g-generation (talkin’ ’bout my generation)
This is my generation
This is my generation, baby
My, my g-generation
My, my, my, my, my generation
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
My, my, my, my, my generation (generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (talkin’ about)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (my generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (my generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (this is my generation, baby)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (this is my generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (this is my generation)
Talkin’ ’bout my generation (this is my generation)