The rock opera that proved the form could carry a full narrative, following a 'deaf, dumb and blind' pinball prodigy. Ambitious and occasionally overwrought, it remains a landmark of scale and intent. Townshend's songwriting holds it together. Released in 1969, it's a key entry in The Who's run.
On vinyl: Original pressings are collector's territory now, so most listeners reach for a well-reviewed reissue.
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More from The Who — where to go next
If you have Tommy, these are the The Who records worth reaching for next.
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1
Live at Leeds1970 · RockStart here
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2
My Generation1965 · RockEssential
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3
Tommy1969 · you're viewing this oneEssential
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4
The Who Sell Out1967 · RockClassic
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5
Who's Next1971 · RockClassic
If you like Tommy, try
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club BandThe Beatles
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from MarsDavid Bowie
The Dark Side of the MoonPink Floyd
The WallPink Floyd
Nashville SkylineBob Dylan
Green RiverCreedence Clearwater Revival