a pinball starbut that was not the original intention.
In fact, in his earliest incarnation, Tommy was a different sort of star altogether.
For the Who, the idea of a concept album emerged only a few years into their career.
Prior, the band had already released three albums.
They became known for hits such as “My Generation.”
Although these first records brought notoriety, the band sought to expand their creative potential.
The original idea was for the main character to be a rockstar.
“In impressive fashion, Townshend came up with “Pinball Wizard” overnight.
It also made Tommy iconic since this idea was completely original.
It additionally starred the frontman of the Who, Roger Daltrey.
Another key adaptation came in the form of a musical, with the first successful one occurring in 1992.
From this, a live concert performance was released in 2019.
Hemdale Film Corporation
It’s truly amazing howone album turned into so many different avenues for Pete Townshend and The Who.