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The Who, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, was known for their energetic live performances and timeless hits. But, have you ever wondered who provided the driving force behind their music? The answer is John Entwistle, the legendary bass player of The Who.
Entwistle, often referred to as “The Ox,” was a founding member of The Who and played an integral role in shaping their sound. With his unique style and technical prowess, he brought life to the band’s music and helped create some of the most memorable bass lines in rock history.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the life and legacy of John Entwistle, exploring his influences, contributions, and impact on The Who and the music industry as a whole. So, let’s get ready to embark on a journey through the life of one of the greatest bass players of all time.
Early Life and Career of John Entwistle
John Entwistle’s Family Background
John Entwistle was born on October 9, 1944, in the city of Cheshunt, England. He was the son of a steel worker, Joseph Entwistle, and his wife, Alice. Growing up, John was the youngest of three children, with two older sisters named Carol and Susan.
John’s family was working-class, and his father worked long hours in the steel mills to provide for his family. Despite the challenges of their working-class background, John’s parents were supportive of his interest in music from a young age. His mother was a piano teacher, and his father encouraged him to pursue his passion for music.
In addition to his parents’ support, John was also influenced by his grandfather, who was a skilled piano player. His grandfather taught him how to play the piano and introduced him to classical music, which would later influence his own music.
Overall, John’s family background played a significant role in shaping his early life and career. His working-class upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed, while his family’s support and exposure to music at a young age inspired him to pursue a career in music.
The Early Years: Music and Sports
John Entwistle was born on October 9, 1944, in the East End of London, England. He showed a keen interest in music and sports from a young age. In this section, we will explore how Entwistle’s early years shaped his passion for music and sports.
Music
Entwistle’s father was a concert pianist, which exposed him to the world of music at an early age. He started playing the trumpet when he was nine years old and switched to the guitar when he was twelve. His parents bought him a second-hand guitar, which he affectionately called “Slab,” and he began to teach himself how to play.
Entwistle was drawn to the bass guitar after hearing Paul McCartney play it in The Beatles. He became fascinated with the instrument and its role in creating the foundation of a song. He eventually saved up enough money to buy his first bass guitar, a Harmony guitar with a flat-top body and single-coil pickup.
In his early teens, Entwistle started playing with local bands in and around London. He also frequented jazz clubs, where he would watch and learn from musicians like Ronnie Ross and Phil Seaman. These experiences helped him develop his skills as a musician and exposed him to different genres and styles of music.
Sports
Entwistle was also an accomplished sportsman. He played football (soccer) for his school team and excelled at cricket. He was a fast bowler and scored a century (100 runs) in a school match against Westcliff High School for Boys. His sporting achievements earned him a place in the school’s first XI cricket team and the school football team.
His love for sports was evident in his music as well. He often incorporated sport-related themes into The Who’s songs, such as “Pinball Wizard” and “I Can See for Miles.” His experiences in sports helped shape his creative approach to music and his stage presence.
In conclusion, Entwistle’s early years were shaped by his passion for music and sports. His exposure to different genres and styles of music, as well as his sporting achievements, influenced his approach to life and his contribution to The Who’s music.
The Formation of The Who and John’s Role as Bass Player
John Entwistle, born on October 9, 1945, in London, England, began his musical journey at a young age. He took up the trumpet at the age of thirteen but eventually switched to the bass guitar. Entwistle’s passion for music led him to form a band called the Detours, which later became The Who.
The Who was formed in 1964 by Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon. The band members were all talented musicians in their own right, but it was Entwistle’s unique style of playing the bass guitar that set him apart from other bass players.
Entwistle’s role as the bass player in The Who was essential to the band’s sound. He was known for his powerful and driving basslines, which complemented Townshend’s guitar work perfectly. His playing style was characterized by his use of the pick, which allowed him to create a distinct sound that was both melodic and rhythmic.
One of Entwistle’s most famous basslines is from the song “My Generation,” which showcases his ability to create a memorable and catchy melody that adds to the song’s overall energy. His playing on this track is aggressive and dynamic, with rapid-fire notes that perfectly capture the song’s rebellious spirit.
Entwistle’s contributions to The Who’s music went beyond just his basslines. He was also a talented composer and wrote several songs for the band, including “The Real Me” and “Success Story.” His songwriting helped to create a diverse sound for The Who, allowing them to explore different musical styles and genres.
Overall, John Entwistle’s role as the bass player in The Who was crucial to the band’s success. His unique playing style, memorable basslines, and songwriting abilities made him an essential member of the band.
John Entwistle’s Influence on Bass Guitar Playing
Techniques and Style
As the bass player of The Who, John Entwistle revolutionized the way bass guitar was played in rock music. His innovative techniques and distinct style had a profound impact on the development of the instrument, inspiring countless bass players to push the boundaries of what was possible.
One of Entwistle’s most notable contributions to bass guitar playing was his use of the “roundwound” string. This type of string is characterized by a ridged surface that provides a bright, punchy tone and excellent sustain. Entwistle’s choice to use roundwound strings on his bass guitar helped to popularize the sound and make it a staple of rock music.
In addition to his choice of strings, Entwistle was also known for his unique playing style. He was a master of finger picking, incorporating intricate patterns and fast runs into his playing. He also used a technique called “slapping,” where he would hit the strings with the edge of his hand to create a percussive sound. This style of playing would later become a hallmark of funk and jazz music, but Entwistle was one of the first rock musicians to incorporate it into his playing.
Furthermore, Entwistle’s use of the bass guitar as a lead instrument was another innovation that set him apart from other bass players. While many bass players of the time simply played rhythm parts, Entwistle would often take solos and play melodic lines that were just as important as the guitar or vocal parts. This approach helped to elevate the status of the bass guitar within a band’s sound and made it a more prominent part of the overall musical arrangement.
Overall, John Entwistle’s influence on bass guitar playing was immense. His use of roundwound strings, unique playing style, and innovative approach to the instrument helped to shape the sound of rock music and inspired countless bass players to push the boundaries of what was possible.
The Who’s Sound and John’s Contribution
Pioneering Bass Lines
John Entwistle was a pioneer in creating innovative and complex bass lines that elevated the role of the bass guitar in rock music. He incorporated techniques such as using the bass as a melodic instrument, playing with a pick, and using distortion and effects pedals to create a unique sound that set him apart from other bass players of his time.
Powerful Sound and Stage Presence
John’s powerful sound and stage presence were also key components of The Who’s signature sound. He used a stack of speakers to create a loud, distinctive tone that helped to establish the band’s iconic sound. His energetic and dynamic stage presence, complete with his trademark horn-rimmed glasses and colorful clothes, made him a memorable and influential figure in rock music.
Writing and Recording Contributions
In addition to his work as a bass player, John was also a prolific songwriter and arranger. He wrote or co-wrote many of The Who’s most popular songs, including “My Generation,” “I Can See for Miles,” and “Baba O’Riley.” His contributions to the band’s recording sessions were also crucial, as he helped to shape the sound of their albums with his innovative bass lines and production ideas.
Collaboration with Pete Townshend
Finally, John’s collaboration with guitarist Pete Townshend was a key factor in The Who’s success. The two bandmates had a close working relationship and a deep understanding of each other’s playing style, which allowed them to create a cohesive and powerful sound. John’s contributions to The Who’s music and stage presence were essential to the band’s success and helped to establish them as one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock music history.
John Entwistle’s Collaborations and Side Projects
The Who’s Tommy and John’s Contribution
Introduction
John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox,” was a British musician and songwriter who was best known as the bass guitarist for the rock band The Who. He was a founding member of the band and played a crucial role in their success throughout the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to his work with The Who, Entwistle also had a number of collaborations and side projects, including his work on the band’s rock opera, Tommy.
The Who’s Tommy
Tommy is a rock opera written by Pete Townshend, the guitarist and primary songwriter for The Who. The album tells the story of a young boy named Tommy who becomes deaf, dumb, and blind after witnessing his father’s murder. The album was released in 1969 and was a commercial and critical success, reaching number four on the Billboard charts and spawning several hit singles, including “Pinball Wizard” and “I’m Free.”
John’s Contribution
Entwistle played a significant role in the creation of Tommy, both as a performer and a songwriter. He was responsible for writing several of the album’s most memorable songs, including “Underture” and “The Amazing Journey,” which serve as an overture to the album and set the tone for the rest of the record.
In addition to his songwriting contributions, Entwistle was also responsible for arranging many of the album’s instrumental passages, including the iconic “Overture” and “Sparks.” His skills as an arranger helped to create a cohesive sound for the album and helped to bring Townshend’s vision to life.
Conclusion
Tommy was a landmark album in the history of rock music, and Entwistle’s contributions to the record were crucial to its success. His songwriting and arranging skills helped to create a cohesive and memorable sound that has endured for decades. Even though Entwistle’s role in the creation of Tommy may have been overshadowed by Townshend’s larger-than-life persona, it is clear that he played a crucial role in the album’s success and cemented his place as one of the most important bass players in rock music history.
Solo Albums and Collaborations with Other Artists
Aside from his work with The Who, John Entwistle also pursued various solo projects and collaborations with other artists throughout his career. Some of these include:
“Smash Your Battles”
One of Entwistle’s earliest solo endeavors was the release of “Smash Your Battles” in 1971. This instrumental track was featured on the soundtrack for the film “Birthday Party” and showcased Entwistle’s impressive bass skills.
“John Entwistle’s Music from The Who’s ‘Tommy'”
In 1972, Entwistle released “John Entwistle’s Music from The Who’s ‘Tommy'”, an album featuring his arrangements of music from The Who’s rock opera “Tommy”. This album demonstrated Entwistle’s ability to take on a leadership role in the creative process, as he was responsible for selecting the tracks and orchestrating the instrumentation.
“Wizzard”
In the early 1970s, Entwistle collaborated with the glam rock band Wizzard on their album “Wizzard Brew”. Entwistle’s contributions to the album included playing bass and writing the song “Glad All Over”, which became a hit for the band.
“The Real Me”
Entwistle also worked on a solo project called “The Real Me”, which was never officially released during his lifetime. However, some of the tracks from this project have since been included in various compilation albums and tribute albums.
“The Entwistle Brothers”
In 1973, Entwistle collaborated with his younger brother, actor and musician Max Entwistle, on an album called “The Entwistle Brothers”. The album featured a mix of original songs and covers, with Entwistle’s bass playing taking center stage.
These solo albums and collaborations showcase Entwistle’s versatility as a musician and his willingness to explore new creative avenues outside of his work with The Who.
John Entwistle’s Personal Life and Tragic Death
Marriage and Children
John Entwistle was married to his wife, Renate, from 1967 until his death in 2002. The couple had one child together, a daughter named Céline Entwistle, who was born in 1968. Entwistle was known to be a devoted family man and often spoke about the importance of family in his life.
Despite his busy schedule as a member of The Who, Entwistle made time for his family and was known to be a hands-on father. He was involved in his daughter’s life and took pride in her accomplishments.
In addition to his marriage and daughter, Entwistle had a close relationship with his parents and siblings. He was particularly close to his mother and credited her with being a major influence in his life.
Despite his personal struggles and public image as a wild rock star, Entwistle was a private and introspective person who valued his relationships with his loved ones. His marriage and family were important to him and played a significant role in his life and legacy.
Drug Use and Health Issues
Throughout his life, John Entwistle struggled with drug addiction, which ultimately contributed to his untimely death. His drug use began in the 1960s, a time when substance abuse was becoming increasingly prevalent among celebrities and musicians. Entwistle was known to have used a variety of drugs, including cocaine, heroin, and prescription medications.
Despite his drug use, Entwistle continued to tour and record with The Who, delivering legendary performances that would go on to define an era. However, his drug addiction took a toll on his health, and he experienced several health issues as a result.
In 1976, while on tour in the United States, Entwistle was arrested for drug possession. This incident marked a turning point in his life, and he made attempts to overcome his addiction. Despite these efforts, Entwistle’s drug use continued, and he eventually suffered a fatal heart attack on June 27, 2002, while on tour with The Who in Las Vegas.
The impact of Entwistle’s death was felt by fans and fellow musicians alike, and his legacy as a bass player and a member of The Who continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers.
Tragic Death and Legacy
On June 27, 2002, John Entwistle was found dead in his hotel room in Las Vegas, Nevada. The cause of death was officially listed as a heart attack, but there were some questions surrounding the circumstances of his death. Some speculated that he may have suffered from an overdose or that his death may have been related to his history of alcohol abuse.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his death, Entwistle’s legacy as a bass player and a member of The Who remained secure. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest bass players of all time, and his contributions to rock music were inestimable. In the years following his death, tributes to Entwistle poured in from fellow musicians and fans alike, with many expressing their admiration for his skill, creativity, and style.
One of the most enduring legacies of Entwistle’s career was his innovative approach to the bass guitar. He was known for his use of unusual tunings and his inventive playing techniques, which pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the instrument. He also had a unique sense of melody and a knack for writing memorable bass lines that helped to define The Who’s sound.
Entwistle’s legacy was not limited to his work with The Who. He also released several solo albums throughout his career, showcasing his versatility as a musician and his interest in a wide range of musical styles. His solo work included collaborations with other famous musicians and explored genres such as jazz, classical, and electronica.
Overall, John Entwistle’s tragic death marked the end of an era for The Who and for rock music as a whole. However, his legacy as a groundbreaking bass player and a beloved musician continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
John Entwistle’s Legacy in the World of Music
Impact on Bass Guitar Playing
John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox,” was a founding member of the legendary rock band The Who. He was not only a talented singer and songwriter but also an accomplished bass guitar player who revolutionized the way the instrument was played in rock music. Entwistle’s unique style, which combined technical skill, creativity, and showmanship, left an indelible mark on the world of music and inspired countless bass players to follow in his footsteps.
One of Entwistle’s most significant contributions to bass guitar playing was his use of the instrument as a lead instrument, rather than just a rhythm section support. He often played melodic and harmonic lines that were just as important as the guitar or vocal parts in The Who’s songs. This approach to bass playing was revolutionary at the time and helped to establish the bass guitar as a prominent instrument in rock music.
Entwistle’s use of distortion and other effects on his bass guitar was another groundbreaking aspect of his playing. He was one of the first bass players to experiment with these techniques, which added a new dimension to the instrument’s sound and helped to create the iconic “power chord” sound that defined The Who’s music.
In addition to his technical skills, Entwistle was also known for his showmanship and stage presence. He often played his bass guitar with a violin bow, creating a unique and distinctive sound that added to The Who’s dynamic live performances. His energy and enthusiasm on stage inspired both his bandmates and his audience, cementing his place as one of the most influential bass players in rock music history.
Overall, John Entwistle’s impact on bass guitar playing was significant and far-reaching. His innovative style, technical skill, and showmanship continue to inspire bass players around the world, and his legacy as a founding member of The Who remains an enduring testament to his talent and creativity.
Influence on The Who’s Sound and Success
John Entwistle, the bass player of The Who, was a key figure in shaping the band’s sound and contributing to their success. His innovative approach to playing the bass guitar and his creative input in the band’s songwriting process played a significant role in defining The Who’s distinctive sound.
Revolutionizing the Role of the Bass Guitar
Entwistle’s style of playing the bass guitar was groundbreaking and revolutionized the way the instrument was used in rock music. He incorporated techniques such as slapping, pounding, and using distortion, which became signature elements of his playing and influenced countless bass players that followed.
Creative Songwriting Contributions
Entwistle was also a prolific songwriter and contributed many of The Who’s most memorable songs, including “My Generation,” “The Real Me,” and “Boris the Spider.” His creative input in the band’s songwriting process helped to define The Who’s unique sound and gave them a distinct identity in the world of rock music.
Impact on The Who’s Stage Presence
Entwistle’s on-stage presence was equally as important as his musical contributions. He was known for his energetic and dynamic performances, often using his instrument as a prop and engaging with the audience. His stage presence, along with that of his bandmates, helped to create the electric and explosive atmosphere that became synonymous with The Who’s live shows.
In conclusion, John Entwistle’s influence on The Who’s sound and success cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to playing the bass guitar, creative songwriting contributions, and dynamic stage presence all played a crucial role in defining The Who’s unique sound and cementing their place as one of the most influential bands in rock music history.
Continued Relevance and Appreciation Today
Even decades after his passing, John Entwistle’s impact on the world of music remains relevant and appreciated. This continued relevance can be attributed to several factors, including his pioneering work as a bass player, his unique and distinctive sound, and his enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
Pioneering Work as a Bass Player
John Entwistle was a true pioneer in the world of music, particularly in the realm of bass guitar. He was one of the first bass players to use the instrument as a lead instrument, pushing the boundaries of what was traditionally considered the role of the bass player. His innovative approach to playing the bass guitar included using a pick, playing with a guitar-like technique, and utilizing various musical effects pedals to create a distinctive and powerful sound.
Distinctive Sound
John Entwistle’s sound was instantly recognizable, with his deep, powerful bass lines and his distinctive use of vibrato and tremolo. His sound was characterized by his use of the Les Paul bass guitar, which he referred to as his “Rhoads-bass.” This unique instrument featured two humbucker pickups, which allowed him to create a thick, full sound that was essential to The Who’s music.
Enduring Influence on Subsequent Generations of Musicians
John Entwistle’s influence on subsequent generations of musicians has been profound. Many notable bass players have cited him as a major influence on their own playing style, including Paul McCartney, Flea, and Les Claypool. His pioneering work as a bass player and his distinctive sound have inspired countless musicians to push the boundaries of what is possible with the instrument.
Furthermore, John Entwistle’s legacy has transcended the world of music. He was also a visual artist, and his artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. His contributions to popular culture continue to be celebrated and appreciated, and his enduring influence on the world of music ensures that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
John Entwistle’s Lasting Impact on Music
John Entwistle’s contribution to the world of music has been nothing short of extraordinary. He was a true innovator and his unique approach to the bass guitar helped to shape the sound of rock music as we know it today. His lasting impact on music can be seen in a number of different areas, including his influence on other musicians, his contributions to the development of rock music, and his status as a cultural icon.
One of the most significant ways in which John Entwistle’s legacy can be seen is in the impact he had on other musicians. Many bass players have cited him as a major influence on their own playing style, and his unique approach to the instrument has inspired countless others to explore new sounds and techniques. His use of the bass as a lead instrument, rather than simply as a rhythm section player, was particularly influential, and helped to pave the way for a new generation of bass players who were willing to take risks and push the boundaries of what was possible on their instrument.
Entwistle’s contributions to the development of rock music were also significant. He was one of the first bass players to use the instrument in a more experimental and expressive way, using techniques like fingerpicking and tapping to create new sounds and textures. His work with The Who also helped to establish the concept of the rock opera, with the band’s groundbreaking album “Tommy” being a seminal work in the genre.
Finally, John Entwistle’s status as a cultural icon cannot be overstated. He was a true figure of the rock and roll era, and his distinctive style and on-stage presence helped to define the look and feel of the movement. His tragic death at a young age only served to enhance his legend, and he remains a beloved figure among fans of The Who and of rock music in general.
Overall, John Entwistle’s lasting impact on music can be seen in many different areas, from his influence on other musicians to his contributions to the development of rock music and his status as a cultural icon. He was a true innovator and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come.
The Enduring Legacy of The Who’s Bass Player
Despite his untimely death in 2002, John Entwistle’s influence on the world of music remains strong. He was a key member of one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, The Who, and his contributions to their sound and style have been integral to their enduring legacy.
One of the reasons why Entwistle’s legacy endures is because of his innovative approach to the bass guitar. He was known for his use of distortion and other effects, which he incorporated into his playing to create a sound that was unique and distinctive. This approach helped to establish the bass guitar as a lead instrument in rock music, rather than just a supporting instrument.
In addition to his technical innovations, Entwistle was also a highly creative and expressive musician. He was known for his distinctive style and approach to songwriting, which often incorporated elements of jazz, classical, and other musical genres into The Who’s sound. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries helped to make The Who’s music stand out from that of their contemporaries, and it continues to influence new generations of musicians to this day.
Another reason why Entwistle’s legacy endures is because of his influence on popular culture. The Who were one of the most influential and important bands of the 1960s and 1970s, and their music and image have had a lasting impact on popular culture. Entwistle’s distinctive style and persona, which included his trademark glasses and goatee beard, have become iconic and have been imitated by countless musicians and fans over the years.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Entwistle’s legacy as a member of The Who is not limited to his contributions as a musician. He was also a key contributor to the band’s visual image and stage presence, and his presence on stage was an integral part of their live shows. This aspect of his legacy has been particularly important in the years since his death, as The Who have continued to tour and perform without him. Despite this, they have been able to maintain their status as one of the most beloved and influential bands in rock history, thanks in no small part to the enduring legacy of John Entwistle.
FAQs
1. Who was the bass player of The Who?
The bass player of The Who was John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox”. He was a founding member of the band and played with them from their formation in 1964 until his death in 2002.
2. What was John Entwistle’s role in The Who?
John Entwistle was not only the bass player of The Who, but he also played keyboards, horns, and other instruments in the band. He was known for his innovative and creative approach to bass playing, which included using a variety of techniques such as finger picking, slapping, and tapping.
3. What were some of John Entwistle’s most famous bass lines?
Some of John Entwistle’s most famous bass lines include the opening riff to “My Generation,” the bass solo in “The Real Me,” and the bass line in “Pinball Wizard.” He was known for his ability to create complex and intricate bass lines that added a unique dimension to The Who’s music.
4. How did John Entwistle’s bass playing influence rock music?
John Entwistle’s bass playing had a significant influence on rock music. He was one of the first bass players to use the instrument as a lead instrument, rather than just providing a rhythmic foundation. His innovative techniques and creative approach to bass playing inspired many other musicians and helped to expand the role of the bass in rock music.
5. What were some of John Entwistle’s other contributions to The Who?
In addition to his bass playing, John Entwistle also contributed to The Who’s songwriting and vocals. He wrote several of the band’s songs, including “The Amazing Journey” and “The Real Me,” and provided backing vocals on many of their songs. He was also known for his eccentric and humorous personality, which added to the band’s stage presence.
6. What happened to John Entwistle?
John Entwistle died on June 27, 2002, while on tour with The Who in Las Vegas. He was found dead in his hotel room, and the cause of death was listed as a heart attack. His death was a shock to the music world, and he was remembered as a brilliant musician and a key member of The Who.
