Long Live Rock

The Who

About Long Live Rock

"Long Live Rock" is a single by The Who, written by Pete Townshend during 1971. It was not included on the Who's Next album, as it wasn't recorded until 1972. It was later performed by Billy Fury's character in the film That'll Be the Day featuring Keith Moon. The original Who recording of the song was later released on the rarities album Odds & Sods (1974), as well as being released as a single in 1979.


Year:
1974
57 
#1

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Down at the Astoria the scene was changing
Bingo and rock were pushing out x-rating
We were the first band to vomit at the bar
And find the distance to the stage too far
Meanwhile it's getting late at ten o'clock
Rock is dead they say
Long live rock

Long live rock! I need it every night
Long live rock! Come on and join the line
Long live rock! Be it dead or alive

People walk in sideways pretending that they're leaving
We put on our makeup and work out all the lead-ins
Jack is in the alley selling tickets made in Hong Kong
Promoter's in the pay box wondering where the band's gone
Back in the pub the governor stops the clock
Rock is dead they say
Long live rock

Long live rock! I need it every night
Long live rock! Come on and join the line
Long live rock! Be it dead or alive

Landslide, rocks are falling, falling down upon our very heads
We tried but you were yawning, look again
Rock is dead
Rock is dead
Rock is dead

The place is really jumping to the high watt amps
'Til a twenty inch cymbal fell and cut the lamps
In the blackout they danced right into the aisle
And as the doors fly open even the promoter smiles
Someone takes his pants off and the rafters knock
Rock is dead they say
Long live rock, long live rock, long live rock, long live rock

Long live rock
Long live rock
Long live rock
Long live rock
Long live rock

Long live rock! I need it every night
Long live rock! Come on and join the line
Long live rock! Be it dead or alive

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The Who

The Who are an English rock band formed in 1964 by Roger Daltrey (lead vocals, guitar, harmonica), Pete Townshend (vocals, guitar, keyboards), John Entwistle (vocals, bass) and Keith Moon, (drums, vocals). They became known for energetic live performances which often included instrument destruction. The Who have sold about 100 million records, and have charted 27 top forty singles in the United Kingdom and United States, as well as 17 top ten albums, with 18 Gold, 12 Platinum and 5 Multi-Platinum album awards in the United States alone. more »

9 fans

Written by: Peter Dennis Blandfor Townshend

Lyrics © Spirit Music Group, Abkco Music Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


9 facts about this song

Composition & Release
"Long Live Rock" was written by Pete Townshend, the primary songwriter and guitarist of the British rock band "The Who". - The song was recorded in 1972 but was not released until 1974 in the UK and in 1979 in the U.S.
Inclusion in Albums
The song debuted on the compilation album "Odds & Sods" which was composed of tracks that didn't make it onto The Who's studio albums. - It was also included in the soundtrack of the movie "The Kids are Alright".
Lyrics & Theme
The lyrics serve as a celebration and tribute to the rock 'n' roll genre. It reflects on the spirit of rock music and its culture. - The song suggests a kind of nostalgia about the "golden era" of rock, with references to dances and gigs in packed halls.
Single & Chart Performance
The Who released "Long Live Rock" as a single in 1979 to coincide with the release of "The Kids are Alright" film. - It reached number 48 on the UK Singles Chart and number 54 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
Performances
"Long Live Rock" became a popular live performance song for The Who and was often used as an encore during their concerts. - The song was performed at The Who's Concert for New York City following the September 11 attacks, as part of a patriotic set.
Critical Responses & Cultural Impact
Critics have praised "Long Live Rock" for its anthemic chorus and rousing instrumentation, typifying the band's powerful rock sound. - The song remains a beloved anthem within the rock community, reflecting both The Who's legacy and the enduring appeal of rock music.
Music Video
A music video for "Long Live Rock" was created as part of "The Kids are Alright" documentary film featuring montage clips showcasing The Who's explosive stage performances.
Other Artists' Cover
Various artists have covered "Long Live Rock" over the years, signifying its lasting appeal. Bono, the lead singer of U2, once performed the song in homage to The Who.
Use in Media
The song has been used in various TV shows and movies to represent the spirit and rebellion of rock music, including the HBO series "VINYL" where it was covered by the character played by James Jagger.

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    Long Live Rock

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1979

    Billboard #54


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