Released in 1971, Who's Next was The Who's fifth studio record. The second of three albums recorded at their creative peak, it is widely viewed as their best work. The task of writing a follow-up to the rock opera Tommy was a difficult one and its origins emerged from Pete Townshend's Lifehouse, which proved to be an over-ambitious blend of multi-media, film, a book, and audience involvement. But what finally emerged was a great rock record.

With this release, The Who moved in new directions, incorporating innovative use of synthesizers, piano and rootsy violin. Roger Daltrey was at the top of his vocal game, Keith Moon was drumming as only he could and John Entwistle was driving rock bass in new directions, with all these factors unified in the service of brilliant songwriting. Associate producer Glyn Johns then assembled the album, abandoning the storyline. A number one in Britain and number four in America, the album was hugely influential and continues to reach new audiences over fifty years later.

This book examines in detail the background, inspiration and recording of the songs, the reception of the work as a whole, and its legacy and influence on bands and performers to this day.