Song of the Day: The Who "Eminence Front"

About the song

In the realm of rock and roll, there are a select few bands that have truly left an indelible mark on the genre. The Who, with their untamed energy, rebellious spirit, and poignant songwriting, stand tall among these giants. Their music, a fusion of hard rock, power pop, and psychedelic flourishes, has resonated with generations of listeners, transcending cultural and societal boundaries. Among their extensive and impressive catalog of hits, “Eminence Front” stands out as a prime example of their enduring brilliance.

Released in 1982 as part of their tenth studio album “It’s Hard”, “Eminence Front” is a hard rock anthem that encapsulates the essence of The Who’s raw and untamed sound. The song opens with a thunderous guitar riff, courtesy of the legendary Pete Townshend, immediately setting the stage for an adrenaline-fueled musical journey. Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals soar above the instrumental onslaught, imbuing the lyrics with an emotional intensity that is both captivating and unforgettable.

“Eminence Front” is a song about desire, ambition, and the pursuit of success. The protagonist, driven by an insatiable hunger for recognition, navigates the treacherous landscape of fame and fortune. The lyrics paint vivid imagery of the cutthroat world of the entertainment industry, where dreams are often shattered and aspirations are ruthlessly exploited.

Despite the song’s dark undertones, “Eminence Front” is not a tale of despair or defeat. Instead, it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. The protagonist, though battered and bruised by the trials they face, remains undeterred, their resolve unwavering in the face of adversity.

Musically, “Eminence Front” is a masterpiece of hard rock craftsmanship. Townshend’s guitar work is nothing short of electrifying, weaving intricate melodies and driving rhythms that propel the song forward. John Entwistle’s basslines provide a solid foundation, while Kenney Jones’s drumming adds a relentless pulse that keeps the energy levels at an all-time high.

“Eminence Front” has become a staple of The Who’s live performances, igniting crowds with its raw energy and infectious enthusiasm. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, further solidifying its status as a rock and roll anthem.

In conclusion, “Eminence Front” is a hard rock masterpiece that showcases The Who’s unmatched talent and songwriting prowess. It is a song that captures the essence of ambition, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams, all set to a backdrop of electrifying rock and roll. With its timeless appeal and enduring legacy, “Eminence Front” is sure to continue to rock audiences for generations to come.

Video

Lyrics

The sun shinesAnd people forgetThe spray flies as the speedboat glidesAnd people forgetForget they’re hidingThe girls smileAnd people forgetThe snow packs as the skier tracksPeople forgetForget they’re hiding
Behind an eminence frontEminence front, it’s a put onIt’s an eminence frontIt’s an eminence front, it’s a put onAn eminence frontEminence front, it’s a put onEminence frontIt’s an eminence frontIt’s an eminence front, it’s a put onIt’s a put on, it’s a put on, it’s a put on
Come and join the partyDress to killWon’t you come and join the partyDress to kill, dress to kill
Drinks flowPeople forgetThat big wheel spins, the hair thinsPeople forgetForget they’re hidingThe news slowsPeople forgetTheir shares crash, hopes are dashedPeople forgetForget they’re hiding
Behind an eminence frontAn eminence front, it’s a put onIt’s just an eminence frontAn eminence front, it’s a put onAn eminence frontAn eminence front, it’s a put onEminence frontIt’s an eminence front, it’s a put onIt’s a put on, it’s a put on, it’s a put on
Come on join the partyDress toCome on join the partyDress toCome on join the partyDress toCome on join the partyDress to killDress yourself, dressed to kill