If you made a list of the ten greatest rock albums of the 1970s, Who’s Next would have to be included. It established the Who as one of the decade’s rock kingpins, rivaled by Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and perhaps only a few others. Many fans consider it the band’s creative zenith.
The album is filled with monumental songs, but “Love Ain’t for Keeping” may be the one I enjoy most. That probably isn’t the answer most Who fans would give, which makes it an especially appropriate choice for this list.
The song is acoustic, but it certainly isn’t delicate. Pete Townshend attacks the guitar, Keith Moon keeps it moving and Roger Daltrey delivers one of the warmest, most natural vocals he ever recorded. In barely more than two minutes, the Who create something rustic, physical and joyful.
The enormous songs on Who’s Next demand your attention. “Love Ain’t for Keeping” simply invites you in—and that may be why I return to it so often.