The frontman of one of the greatest bands of all time tells the story of his rise from nothing to rock ‘n’ roll megastar, and his wild journey as the voice of The Who.
Its taken me three years to unpack the events of my life, to remember who did what when and why, to separate the myths from the reality, to unravel what really happened at the Holiday Inn on Keith Moons 21st birthday, says Roger Daltrey, the powerhouse vocalist of The Who. The result of this introspection is a remarkable memoir, instantly captivating, funny and frank, chock-full of well-earned wisdom and one-of-kind anecdotes from a raucous life that spans a tumultuous time of change in Britain and America.
Born during the air bombing of London in 1944, Daltrey fought his way (literally) through school and poverty and began to assemble the band that would become The Who while working at a sheet metal factory in 1961. In Daltreys voice, the familiar storieshow they got into smashing up their kit, the infighting, Keith Moons anticstake on a new, intimate life. Also here is the creative journey through the unforgettable hits including My Generation, Substitute, Pinball Wizard, and the great albums, Whos Next, Tommy, and Quadrophenia. Amidst all the music and mayhem, the drugs, the premature deaths, the ruined hotel rooms, Roger is our perfect narrator, remaining sober (relatively) and observant and determined to make The Who bigger and bigger. Not only his personal story, this is the definitive biography of The Who.
**Roger Daltrey: Be Lucky - The Autobiography of a Rock Legend** Delve into the extraordinary life and times of Roger Daltrey, the iconic frontman of The Who, in his gripping and revealing autobiography, "Be Lucky." More than just a rock 'n' roll memoir, this is a visceral journey from post-war London's bomb-scarred streets to the pinnacle of rock stardom. Daltrey's story is one of raw talent, unwavering determination, and a relentless drive to conquer the world, one explosive performance at a time. Born amidst the chaos of wartime Britain, Daltrey's early life was marked by hardship and struggle. He recounts his rebellious youth, his expulsion from school, and the formative experiences that shaped his uncompromising spirit. Working in a sheet metal factory, he began forging not only metal but also the foundations of one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock history. "Be Lucky" offers an unprecedented glimpse behind the curtain of The Who's meteoric rise. Daltrey fearlessly tackles the band's legendary excesses, the explosive infighting, and the tragic loss of bandmates Keith Moon and John Entwistle. He provides a fresh perspective on familiar tales, revealing the raw emotions and complex dynamics that fueled their creative fire. Prepare for an unvarnished account of Keith Moon's notorious antics, the band's battles with managers and record labels, and the personal demons that haunted some of its members. But this is not simply a catalogue of rock 'n' roll debauchery. Daltrey delves into the creative process behind The Who's groundbreaking music, offering insights into the genesis of iconic anthems like "My Generation," "Substitute," and "Pinball Wizard." He illuminates the band's ambitious concept albums, *Tommy* and *Quadrophenia*, revealing the artistic vision and technical challenges that defined their pioneering sound. Experience the evolution of The Who's music through Daltrey's eyes, gaining a deeper appreciation for their enduring legacy. Beyond the music, Daltrey reflects on the social and political upheavals that shaped his generation. He recounts the band's performances at legendary festivals like Woodstock and the Isle of Wight, capturing the spirit of rebellion and the yearning for change that defined the era. He also addresses the personal toll of fame and the challenges of maintaining his equilibrium amidst the chaos. Throughout the book, Daltrey's voice is authentic, insightful, and often surprisingly humorous. He pulls no punches, offering candid assessments of his bandmates, his contemporaries, and himself. He reflects on his philanthropic work, including his tireless efforts to support teenage cancer charities. "Be Lucky" is more than just a memoir; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of self-belief, and the enduring magic of rock 'n' roll. Daltrey's remarkable story reminds us that even amidst the most turbulent times, a little bit of luck and a whole lot of hard work can take you further than you ever imagined. For fans of The Who, rock music aficionados, and anyone seeking an inspiring tale of resilience and triumph, "Roger Daltrey: Be Lucky" is an absolute must-read. Secure your copy today and experience the life and times of a true rock legend. This First Edition hardcover is a collector's item, perfect for adding to your music biography collection.