The Who’s iconic song “Baba O’Riley” has become synonymous with classic rock and youth culture. However, the song’s title is not just a catchy phrase but a tribute to two important figures that influenced the band’s guitarist Pete Townshend both musically and philosophically- Maher Baba and Terry Riley.
Maher Baba, born in 1894 in India, was a spiritual leader who believed in the unity of all religions and the importance of self-realization. He often spoke about the concept of the “Avatar,” which is a divine being that incarnates on earth to guide humanity towards spiritual enlightenment. Baba becme a spiritual guru to many in the 1960s, including Townshend, who was seeking answers and inspiration during a tumultuous time in history.
Townshend’s interest in Baba’s teachings can be seen in the lyrics of “Baba O’Riley,” which speak about finding purpose and meaning in life amidst chaos and confusion. The song’s opening lines, “Out here in the fields, I fight for my meals, I get my back into my living,” reflect the struggle of everyday life. However, the chorus, “Don’t cry, don’t raise your eye, it’s only teenage wasteland,” is a reminder to keep pushing forward and not give up hope.
Aside from Baba’s teachings, Townshend was also influenced by American composer Terry Riley, who was known for his experimentation with electronic and minimalist music. Riley’s groundbreaking composition “In C” was a major influence on Townshend’s use of synthesizers in “Baba O’Riley.”
The song’s famous synthesizer riff, which is often mistaken for a guitar, is actually an electronic organ called the Lowrey Berkshire Deluxe TBO-1. Townshend used a marimba repeat feature on the organ to create the signature sound that has become synonymous with the song.
In a 2006 interview with Rolling Stone, Townshend explained that “Baba O’Riley” was not just about Woodstock or drugs, as many had assumed. Instead, he wanted to capture the feeling of being a teenager in a dystopian world. The song is a reminder to stay hopeful and find purpose amidst the chaos of life.
“Baba O’Riley” is more than just a classic rock song. It is a tribute to two important figures that influenced Townshend’s music and philosophy- Maher Baba and Terry Riley. The song’s lyrics and sound reflect the struggle of everyday life, but also the importance of finding purpose and hope amidst chaos.
What’s The Story Behind Baba O Riley?
“Baba O’Riley” is a song by the English rock band The Who, released as the opening track of their 1971 album “Who’s Next”. The song was written by the band’s guitarist Pete Townshend, who was inspired by his two main influences at the time: the Indian spiritual master Meher Baba and the minimalist composer Terry Riley.
According to Townshend, the song was written aout the sense of desolation and isolation he felt upon witnessing the state of the teenage audience at the Woodstock festival in 1969, where he saw many young people strung out on acid and some with brain damage. The song’s lyrics express a yearning for connection and meaning amidst the chaos of modern life, with the refrain “teenage wasteland” capturing the sense of aimlessness and disillusionment felt by many young people at the time.
The song’s distinctive synth and violin intro was created by the band’s keyboardist, John Entwistle, using a Lowrey Berkshire Deluxe TBO-1 organ. The intro was inspired by the sound of a violin being played through a delay unit, and became one of the most recognizable and iconic openings in rock music history.
“Baba O’Riley” remains one of The Who’s most beloved and enduring songs, hailed as a masterpiece of both songwriting and production, and a powerful expression of the anxieties and aspirations of a generation coming of age in a rapidly changing world.”
Is Baba O Riley About Vietnam?
Baba O’Riley is not about Vietnam. The song is actually about the dystopian wasteland that the world could become if people don’t start working together to solve their problems. It was inspired by the novel “1984” by George Orwell and the works of philosopher Meher Baba. The lyrics make references to teenage rebellion, but they are not specifically about the Vietnam War or any other specific event. Instead, they are a call for people to come together and create a better future for themselves and their communities.
Who Played The Violin On Baba O Riley?
The violin solo on the song “Baba O’Riley” was played by Dave Arbus. He was a member of the relatively unknown English band East of Eden. The song’s title is a combination of Pete Townshend’s Indian guru Meher Baba and American composer Terry Riley. Dave Arbus’ contribution to the song is considered to be one of the most iconic parts of the track and has been praised by fans and critics alike.
What Instrument Is At The Beginning Of Baba O Riley?
At the commencement of the song “Baba O’Riley,” there is an electronic organ that is played with the marimba repeat feature of the organ engaged. To be precise, it is the Lowrey Berkshire Deluxe TBO-1 electronic organ. This instrument is popularly used in the music industry for creating electronic sounds and music. It is an electronic keyboard instrument that produces sound by generating electrical signals that are then amplified through speakers. The marimba repeat feature of the Lowrey Berkshire Deluxe TBO-1 electronic organ allows for the automatic repetition of a played note, creating a unique and distinctive sound.
Conclusion
Maher Baba was a prominent spiritual leader and philosopher who had a significant impact on the lives of many individuals, including Pete Townshend. Baba’s teachings focused on the importance of love, truth, and self-realization, which resonated with Townshend’s own spiritual and philosophical beliefs. Through his music, Townshend paid tribute to Baba’s teachings and legacy, which continue to inspire individuals all over the world to this day. Maher Baba’s teachings and ideas remain relevant and influential, and his legacy continues to be celebrated and honored by many who have been touched by his wisdom and message of love and peace.
