Long Live Rock

Pete Townshend

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:
1987
3:46
226 
#2

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer

Down at the Astoria the scene was changing,
Bingo and rock were pushing out X-rating,
We were the first band to vomit in 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 'round 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 20-inch cymbal fell and cut the lamps,
In the blackout they dance 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, I need it every night,
Long live rock, come on and join the line,
Long live rock, be it dead or alive.
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

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


Pete Townshend

Peter Dennis Blandford "Pete" Townshend (born 19 May 1945) is an English rock guitarist, vocalist, songwriter and author, known principally as the guitarist and songwriter for the rock group The Who, as well as for his own solo career. His career with The Who spans more than 40 years, during which time the band grew to be considered one of the most influential bands of the 1960s and 1970s, and, according to Eddie Vedder, "possibly the greatest live band ever." more »

1 fan

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.

Discuss the Long Live Rock Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Long Live Rock Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 18 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/832957/Pete+Townshend/Long+Live+Rock>.

    Missing lyrics by Pete Townshend?

    Know any other songs by Pete Townshend? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    Long Live Rock

    798
    13     0

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    "I was painting a picture. The picture was a painting of you."
    A MYMP - Especially for You
    B Kelly Clarkson - Because of You
    C Aurora - Runaway
    D Bic Runga - Sway

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Pete Townshend tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!

    Movies soundtrack

    Long Live Rock

    »