JDIZZY's 365 # 66: Sally Simpson

Sally Simpson - The Who (1969)

Tommy has become much more than it originally was. Through Film, Broadway, and Legend, we have forgotten what first brought us to this cultural phenomenon was simple: A great record. From start to finish, the first "rock opera" leaps off the stereo. Pete Townshend's tale of the deaf, dumb and blind kid is more cohesive than most books and it gains power with each sequential listen. It is very hard to pick a favorite, but if I had to do so, it would be this track, sung by a never better Roger Daltrey. It's easy to forget how integral the acoustic guitar was to this album. It brings the story of Sally to life with its opening strums, and provides succulent rhythm throughout the entire track. While "Underture" and "Christmas" vie for second place, this concise, tight little jam is secure at first. They had made great albums before and would do so again, but never would they mike a product so stuffed to the brim with hidden gems. It makes you remember the glory that is The Who and makes you forget all about that Super Bowl thing!



The movie versions pretty cool too, with alternate lyrics and lead vocals by Pete!