Naked Eye (The Who song)

"Naked Eye" is a song written by Pete Townshend of the British rock band The Who. Though never released as a single, it has become a staple of Who live performances and a fan favorite.

Composition and History

The song's origins are somewhat complex, with elements dating back to Townshend's abandoned "Lifehouse" project. It's believed pieces of it were worked on and considered for inclusion in several Who albums, including Who's Next and Quadrophenia, before ultimately being left off. Despite this, the song was frequently performed live starting in the early 1970s.

"Naked Eye" is characterized by its dynamic structure, shifting between quiet, introspective verses and powerful, energetic choruses. The song features a prominent, driving guitar riff, John Entwistle's intricate bass lines, Keith Moon's characteristic explosive drumming, and Roger Daltrey's emotive vocals. The lyrics are open to interpretation, but often seen as reflecting themes of vulnerability, exposure, and the struggle to find meaning in life.

Live Performances and Recordings

While a definitive studio version of "Naked Eye" wasn't officially released for many years, numerous live recordings of the song exist. A well-known version appears on the album Who's Next Life House, which compiles material from the era. It also featured on various live albums and compilations throughout the band's career. Its enduring popularity led to its inclusion in many of their concert setlists, cementing its place in The Who's musical legacy.