Long Live Rock
Pete Townshend
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Down at the Astoria the scene was changing, Bingo and rock were pushing out X-rating, We were the first band to vomit in the bar, And find the distance to the stage too far, Meanwhile it's getting late at ten o'clock, Rock is dead they say, Long live rock. Long live rock, I need it every night, Long live rock, come on and join the line, Long live rock, Be it dead or alive. People walk in sideways pretending that they're leaving, We put on our makeup and work out all the lead-ins, Jack is in the alley selling tickets made in Hong Kong, Promoter's in the pay box wondering where the band's gone, Back in the pub the governor stops the clock, Rock is dead, they say, Long live rock. Long live rock, I need it every night, Long live rock, come on and join the line, Long live rock, Be it dead or alive. Landslide, rocks are falling, Falling down 'round our very heads, We tried but you were yawning, Look again, rock is dead, rock is dead, rock is dead. The place is really jumping to the high-watt amps, 'Til a 20-inch cymbal fell and cut the lamps, In the blackout they dance right into the aisle, And as the doors fly open even the promoter smiles, Someone takes his pants off and the rafters knock, Rock is dead, they say, Long live rock, long live rock, long live rock. Long live rock, I need it every night, Long live rock, come on and join the line, Long live rock, be it dead or alive. Long live rock, I need it every night, Long live rock, come on and join the line, Long live rock Be it dead or alive
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Written by: Peter Dennis Blandfor Townshend
Lyrics © Spirit Music Group, Abkco Music Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
9 facts about this song
Composition & Release"Long Live Rock" was written by Pete Townshend, the primary songwriter and guitarist of the British rock band "The Who".
- The song was recorded in 1972 but was not released until 1974 in the UK and in 1979 in the U.S.
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Inclusion in AlbumsThe song debuted on the compilation album "Odds & Sods" which was composed of tracks that didn't make it onto The Who's studio albums.
- It was also included in the soundtrack of the movie "The Kids are Alright".
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Lyrics & ThemeThe lyrics serve as a celebration and tribute to the rock 'n' roll genre. It reflects on the spirit of rock music and its culture.
- The song suggests a kind of nostalgia about the "golden era" of rock, with references to dances and gigs in packed halls.
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Single & Chart PerformanceThe Who released "Long Live Rock" as a single in 1979 to coincide with the release of "The Kids are Alright" film.
- It reached number 48 on the UK Singles Chart and number 54 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
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Performances"Long Live Rock" became a popular live performance song for The Who and was often used as an encore during their concerts.
- The song was performed at The Who's Concert for New York City following the September 11 attacks, as part of a patriotic set.
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Critical Responses & Cultural ImpactCritics have praised "Long Live Rock" for its anthemic chorus and rousing instrumentation, typifying the band's powerful rock sound.
- The song remains a beloved anthem within the rock community, reflecting both The Who's legacy and the enduring appeal of rock music.
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Music VideoA music video for "Long Live Rock" was created as part of "The Kids are Alright" documentary film featuring montage clips showcasing The Who's explosive stage performances.
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Other Artists' CoverVarious artists have covered "Long Live Rock" over the years, signifying its lasting appeal. Bono, the lead singer of U2, once performed the song in homage to The Who.
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Use in MediaThe song has been used in various TV shows and movies to represent the spirit and rebellion of rock music, including the HBO series "VINYL" where it was covered by the character played by James Jagger.
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Citation
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"Long Live Rock Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2025. Web. 24 Jan. 2025. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/832957/Pete+Townshend/Long+Live+Rock>.
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