The 1966 song, a new standard for rock, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of rock and roll. This era witnessed a surge of musical innovation, driven by the counterculture movement and the influence of LSD. Among the myriad of artists pushing boundaries, The Who stood out for their relentless pursuit of reinvention. Their success with tracks like 'My Generation' did not lead them to rest on their laurels; instead, Pete Townshend's songwriting was a constant, evolutionary force, akin to a shark with a drug habit. This approach was not solely due to his art-school leanings, but also inspired by the work of fellow artists, particularly The Beach Boys.
The Beach Boys, epitomizing the era's innovation, had spent the early 1960s ripping off Chuck Berry for a string of pop hits. Brian Wilson's decision to retreat into the recording studio resulted in Pet Sounds, an album that redefined the musical landscape. Townshend praised Wilson's harmonic sensibility, calling 'God Only Knows' a masterpiece. This influence was particularly strong on Keith Moon, an early Beach Boys fan.
The Who's 'The Who Sell Out' (1967) bore the imprint of Pet Sounds, with its postmodern structure mimicking a radio broadcast, including parody advertisements and expansive, occasionally orchestral arrangements. The album's single, 'I Can See for Miles', was heavily influenced by the Beach Boys' 'God Only Knows'. Townshend's approach to 'I Can See for Miles' was to challenge the status quo, pushing the boundaries of harmony, with a five-part vocal arrangement.
The Who were not alone in embracing this 'new standard'. The era saw countless sonic experiments and directions, as bands across the musical spectrum were inspired by Brian Wilson's influence. The Who's output never mirrored The Beach Boys, but the impact was undeniable. This period marked a significant shift in rock and roll, where artists were not just creating music but also pushing the boundaries of what was possible, setting new standards for generations to come.
