The Who Blue Plaque

Hammersmith and Fulham

Inscription

Legendary Shepherd's Bush rock band The Who performed here at the site of the Goldhawk Social Club

About This Blue Plaque

The plaque appears to contain an error. The Who was a legendary rock band from Shepherd’s Bush, but “The Who The Who” is not the correct name.

The Who was formed in London in 1964 and became one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century. The original lineup consisted of lead singer Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, bassist John Entwistle, and drummer Keith Moon.

The band rose to fame in the mid-1960s with hits like “My Generation,” “I Can’t Explain,” and “The Kids Are Alright.” They were known for their energetic live performances, often involving instrument destruction. The Who’s 1969 rock opera Tommy was a groundbreaking work that established them as a creative force.

Sadly, the original lineup ended in 1978 when Keith Moon passed away. The band continued with drummer Kenney Jones before a hiatus in the 1980s. Various reunions followed, though John Entwistle died in 2002. Daltrey and Townshend continue to perform as The Who to this day.

The plaque commemorates an early Who performance at the Goldhawk Social Club in the band’s hometown neighborhood of Shepherd’s Bush, located in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. This working class area was integral to shaping the band’s identity and music in their formative years in the 1960s mod and rock scene.