Eminence Front by The Who

The early '80s version of the Who, with ex-Faces drummer Kenney Jones taking over for the late Keith Moon, was the most controversial stage of the band. While some fans swore it would never be the Who without Keith, the band was bigger than ever, releasing the classic documentary “The Kids Are Alright” and doing a stadium tour with the Clash opening.

Yet a somber, reflective tone came into Pete Townshend’s writing, which is evident even during a dance number like “Eminence Front.” The synthesizers and heavy beat made it a natural for '80s dance clubs, but Townshend (who takes the lead vocal while Roger Daltrey sits out) can be heard railing against the superficiality of the party scene.

Along with “You Better You Bet,” “Eminence Front” is one of the only post-Keith songs that’s stayed in the Who’s live set.

Even if you hate playing bass, give this one a try. It’s one of John Entwistle’s meatiest basslines, with a fluid funky touch that you won’t find in a lot of the game’s heavier tracks. It’s less technical than many parts, but this one is a real lesson in feel.

If you’re playing guitar, have a few practice runs at the trills that open the song; no way you’ll get through them without fair warning. Instead of gearing you for a big solo, “Eminence Front” gets the main challenge out of the way early.

"Eminence Front" as performed by The Who courtesy of Universal Music Enterprises
Pete Townshend
Published by Songs of Windswept Pacific (BMI) administered by Bug Music