10 Best Songs By The Who
5. I Can't Explain - Non Album Single
Built around an unforgettable four-chord riff, I Can't Explain was the first single released under the name of The Who (having previously played under the name of The High Numbers). Right from the beginning of their careers, it is easy to see where the energy and charisma that made them the famed act that they would go on to be.
Influenced by The Kinks, the simple riff heard throughout the majority of the song is incredibly memorable, with Pete Townshend's songwriting abilities clearly on display quite early in The Who's career.
Bonus fact: Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin was actually present as a session rhythm guitarist during the making of this song. His contributions were sadly never used, but it is interesting to think of what this song would have sounded like had he been featured.