About the song
When we look back at the classic rock era, few songs capture the spirit of the time quite like “Baba O’Riley” by The Who. Released in 1971 as the opening track of their iconic album Who’s Next, this song has become a timeless anthem, celebrated for its powerful blend of rock and pioneering synthesizer work.
“Baba O’Riley” opens with one of the most recognizable and influential keyboard intros in rock history. Pete Townshend’s use of a Lowrey organ, combined with his innovative approach to synthesizers, creates a mesmerizing soundscape that sets the stage for the song’s dynamic energy. This instrumental introduction, often mistaken for a traditional piece of classical music, is a testament to Townshend’s forward-thinking approach and his ability to merge classical influences with modern rock.
The lyrics, sung with passionate intensity by Roger Daltrey, delve into themes of disillusionment and youthful rebellion. The song’s title, often misheard as “Teenage Wasteland” due to its memorable chorus, pays homage to the spiritual leader Meher Baba and the composer Terry Riley, whose minimalist influence can be felt in the song’s structure. The recurring refrain, “Don’t cry, don’t raise your eye, it’s only teenage wasteland,” captures a sense of both resignation and defiance, reflecting the tumultuous era in which the song was created.
Musically, “Baba O’Riley” is a masterclass in blending different elements to create something entirely new. The combination of Townshend’s pioneering use of synthesizers, Keith Moon’s explosive drumming, and John Entwistle’s driving bass creates a powerful and enduring sound that has resonated with audiences for decades.
For those who appreciate the depth and innovation of classic rock, “Baba O’Riley” remains a standout track. Its groundbreaking use of technology, coupled with its poignant lyrics and unforgettable melody, makes it a defining piece in The Who’s storied career and a landmark in the history of rock music.
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Lyrics
Out here in the fields
I fight for my meals
I get my back into my living
I don’t need to fight
To prove I’m right
I don’t need to be forgiven
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Don’t cry
Don’t raise your eye
It’s only teenage wasteland
Sally, take my hand
We’ll travel south ‘cross land
Put out the fire and don’t look past my shoulder
The exodus is here
The happy ones are near
Let’s get together before we get much older
Teenage wasteland
It’s only teenage wasteland
Teenage wasteland, oh, yeah
Teenage wasteland
They’re all wasted