You have just listened to one of the greatest songs ever recorded from one of the greatest albums ever produced. The song is about a 17 year old boy who has just lost his first love to another guy and he is pouring his heart out about the pain and hurt of first love and loss.
Eddie Vedder did a good job with it as well, but this is obviously the standard. Reign Over Me (with the Vedder version on soundtrack) is an underrated Sandler movie btw.
From 1969 to 1973, The Who released three of the most significant albums in rock history: Tommy, Who's Next, and Quadrophenia. They had been a band for a few years prior with some success, but these three albums (two of which were double albums) cemented their place in rock history. Taken all three together, they are probably the most intense creative explosion, in such a a short period of time, in popular music. You can pick any song on any one of these albums and not be dissappointed.
The word o’er is a shortened version of “Over” that was used in poetry and then songwriting. It’s also in the Star-Spangled Banner. “Whose broad stripes and bright stars, O’er the rampart we watched, were so gallantly streaming. And again at the end: “O’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.”
We selected to have this song at the close of our son's memorial service. He was in his early 20's when he died. He and I had the Who as our shared favorite band. He loved the Quadrophenia album that this song is from. Many in attendance commented and how significant the song was as a recessional.
@@stabishop1769 Tommy is usually mentioned as The Who's groundbreaking rock opera. I think it's considered a classic but just not as well known as some others but them.
I listened to this album again yesterday. Jim's inner conflict of trying to fit in or find his own way culminates in this song, and it hits so much harder after at the end of the journey.
I always count off those nine beats before it ends. I saw them live in '74 on their Quadrophenia Tour. What can I say. Crazy good. Side note: Lynyrd Skynyrd was their opening act. THEY slayed as well.
@@p.goldman1885 The thing about Moon is that his fills and grooves "seem" sporadic and undisciplined until you slow them down and write them down, bar by bar, note by note and you realize how much of a genius he was. I started playing drums at age 15 and finally took the time to learn how to read and write music JUST so I could transcribe Moon's playing to break it down and see for myself what he's doing. He's the Gene Krupa to Buddy Rich's John Bonham, to put it another way.
It's really great to see Jay and Amber feeling the raw power of this song and being moved by it the way we did back in the 70s🥹🔥🔥🔥 There's no expiration date on the emotional effects this song. It will move people across time...
I love how The Who is using the words rain and reign, which are homophones, to emphasize that they want LOVE to reign O’er me, and to rain ON me. Great song and great reaction.
The Who at the peak of their power! Between The Who and Zeppelin, us 70' s kids were spoiled rotten musically. I pray somehow music comes back to this level someday, it's a tragedy that our young people aren't getting to experience anything like this song.😢
You took the words right out of my mouth. I think it was the best era of music. You can’t leave out Pink Floyd, and really many, many others. We were so lucky to grow up then. I went to Tulane in ‘76 and was in a band, and even though it was a so-called intellectual university, absolutely everyone played an instrument, and most were damn good at it
Every now and then, an iconic monster of a song comes up that it's so much fun knowing you two have no idea what you're in store for. The Who and rock at it's finest.
Roger Daltrey's best performance, IMHO(yes, there are numerous candidates for that honor). To understate, Pete Townsend can write a song. RIP Keith Moon and John Entwhistle
I knew that you two were going to love this one. This, in my opinion, is a masterpiece. Just such a great blend of classical instruments... piano, strings, timpani and more modern musical instruments...guitar, bass and drums.. and Mr. Daltry's powerful and emotional vocals. So well crafted. Sometimes I believe, we are witnessing the devolution of entertainment. No form of entertainment lately seems to have any imagination, human experience or passion. 😢
Been to over 100 concerts of about 70 different acts. This was hands down, the best song I'd ever seen performed live. Daltrey puts every ounce of his being into this song whenever he sings it.
One of my favorite songs of all time and my favorite Who song of one of my top five albums of all time. The songs works best in context of ending the album and story on it, but it's an amazing song with Roger's most amazing vocal performance.
My friend used this as her wedding song. What an insanely unique, badass choice! I can only imagine the reaction from the folks at the reception, hearing Daltrey scream.
I didn't realize you two hadn't already reacted to this. I've seen the Who 14 times...the first when they were first touring this album in 1973...and they really are this good!
I was only able to see them twice, but the first time was a certain concert in Leeds, England. The second time was 1985 in San Diego, very different experiences. Unbelievable live band. ✌️
Every time I hear this song in the car, I blast it over my speakers, and speed down the highway. This is one of the greatest Who songs ever, and Keith Moon’s drumming at the end is insanely amazing!!!!
So powerful, you cant listen and not get emotional w this song, best song the band has ever done, Quadrophenia is a must listen or react to the movie of the same name, this song is one of the best rock anthems of all time.
As someone who grew up with The Who, being their favorite band, I I just love it when younger people discover their music. This is my favorite band, my favorite album and my favorite song of all time. So happy you guys love it!
So so good ❤just the bigness of their music is legendary! Right after 9/11 they joined others in the concert for NYC and when they took the stage they blew the roof off of MSG! Truly classic 👏🏻
I finally got to see The Who for the first time in concert in 2022. They absolutely KILLED this song. The crowd erupted when Roger sang that final "LOVE"! He freakin' nailed it!
My all time favourite song from the Who, saw this done live three times and what an experience it was each time. It took weeks for my ears to begin working normally again.
Tommy and Quad. Two of the top rock albums of all time and certainly tops of the concept albums of all times brought to us from the genius of Townshend. No modern day band can even come close.
So glad your journey finally led here, been waiting for this one for quite a while. Just an amazing song, Daltrey's vocals are exceptional, and the arrangement Pete puts together is just perfect. Keith with the killer solo. Pearl Jam did a version at a show honoring the who with an orchestra that was beautiful
In a time of soooo much wrong, I come here to you folks to find solace and strength to face my fears and doubts. Please you two, stay well, stay excellent! Keep doing for the world what you two are doing!
You just can't beat the 70's with a stick. I was a concert goer and to see these bands live was like heaven. Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Pink Floyd and so many more. 😁
One of the greatest bands of all time really pouring their intelligence and extreme talents into a song. And if you listen to all of Quadrophenia, you know the story, have heard the Love Reign O’er Me riff threaded throughout and realise the intensity of a true rock opera. These days The Who doesn’t get the attention they richly deserve. Thanks for listening.
My favorite Band of all time = The WHO...Great reaction 🙂So glad you appreciate the many layers of this great rock n roll band...So many great tunes---The FOUR members were/are excellent musicians...No other band is like The Who. "LONG LIVE ROCK N' ROLL, Be it dead or alive...." Pete Townshend one of the best writers and underappreciated guitarists of all time...The Music of The Who will be listened to for thousands of years to come. Peace to all.
Aside from praising a good song, I want to praise you two for investing in this reaction platform so wholeheartedly. Music has been such asignificant, integral and therepuetic element in my life and your transparent engagement is priceless to me. Thank you, and I'll shamelessly suggest that you venture down the Cheap Trick rabbit hole (one of my all time favorite live bands) starting perhaps with 'Hold On' (live at the Budukon) and maybe some B-tracks of Heart, such as 'Love Alive'. As a homeless person ,sadly, I can't participate with your patreon channel. You two are awesome! Keep up the magic--music is the universal thread that connects us all. God bless you!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I suggested this over a year ago and I’m so glad you two have finally listened to it. One of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll songs of all time. Love you guys!!
Rock and roll masterpiece! This song literally gives me goosebumps every single time I listen to it. You guys are the best, thank you for sharing this song.
You might want to check out some solo Roger Daltrey - without your love, walking in my sleep, after the fire, under a raging moon, let me down easy, leon. And also some solo Pete townsend - rough boys, face dances, face the face, give blood, secondhand love
It has been truly unique to watch both of you grow in your musical knowledge and deepen your understanding of how artists' instruments are being played, bringing so much more to their stories. The way you both capture the nuances of the music and weave it seamlessly with the artist's lyrics is nothing short of inspiring. Your ability to understand the sounds that helps' with their storytelling is remarkable, and seeing how far you've come is exciting! Your passion for music shines through every elevation of the songs and your emotions behind them. You have a gift, and I can't wait to see how the rest unfolds for you two, touching hearts and inspiring others along the way.
The whole band were at their prime on this album. As for the ending, the movie is more optimistic but the original album is more bittersweet. The album doesn’t say if Jimmy lives or not, but it doesn’t look like he has much of a chance.
You have just listened to one of the greatest songs ever recorded from one of the greatest albums ever produced. The song is about a 17 year old boy who has just lost his first love to another guy and he is pouring his heart out about the pain and hurt of first love and loss.
Agree 100%.
Absolutely agree!!
Oh my goodness. That's some deep stuff.
Hands down Quadrophenia is one of the GREATEST albums ever!!!!! 😊
Don't forget the movie!
Daltrey's finest vocal performance.
I think it's one of the best ever
No arguments here.
@@DavidRold-pt3ngYep, agreed.
Eddie Vedder did a good job with it as well, but this is obviously the standard. Reign Over Me (with the Vedder version on soundtrack) is an underrated Sandler movie btw.
Yup, agree
One of the greatest anthems from one of the greatest rock bands. Masterpiece.
Such an epic tune...Roger Daltrey's plaintive screams are some of the best ever.
Thanks
From 1969 to 1973, The Who released three of the most significant albums in rock history: Tommy, Who's Next, and Quadrophenia. They had been a band for a few years prior with some success, but these three albums (two of which were double albums) cemented their place in rock history. Taken all three together, they are probably the most intense creative explosion, in such a a short period of time, in popular music. You can pick any song on any one of these albums and not be dissappointed.
And they managed to slip in "The Who Live at Leeds" during that time period. One of the greatest live recordings in the history of rock...
This is an experience not just a song.
Thanks
The word o’er is a shortened version of “Over” that was used in poetry and then songwriting. It’s also in the Star-Spangled Banner.
“Whose broad stripes and bright stars, O’er the rampart we watched, were so gallantly streaming.
And again at the end:
“O’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.”
And, for us Homestar Runner fans, "tis ne'er e're o'er, my lo'er o' clo'er..."
It saves a syllable.
We selected to have this song at the close of our son's memorial service. He was in his early 20's when he died. He and I had the Who as our shared favorite band. He loved the Quadrophenia album that this song is from. Many in attendance commented and how significant the song was as a recessional.
Very sorry for your loss.
I'm almost 70 and never ever have I listen to this song with a dry eye. It moves me so much. 😢
I remember blasting this on my buddy's quadraphonic stereo and just being enveloped in the sounds of this album.
Have you watched Bettye LaVette's tribute cover? th-cam.com/video/EJi6maTueSc/w-d-xo.html
1982 Buffalo NY it poured during this song and faded out. Pete said "I bet the Stones couldn't pull that one off!". Epic
Sometimes real magic happens. ✌️
Hell YES!!! The Who!!!LOVE this song!!!Looks like you guys did too!
Quadrophenia is a criminally underrated album. And this is the song that ends it perfectly.
@@stabishop1769 Tommy is usually mentioned as The Who's groundbreaking rock opera. I think it's considered a classic but just not as well known as some others but them.
I listened to this album again yesterday. Jim's inner conflict of trying to fit in or find his own way culminates in this song, and it hits so much harder after at the end of the journey.
It’s not underrated but it is definitely worth a listen.
@@stabishop1769 I always thought Tommy and Who's Next were rated more highly.
not underrated at all, its an all time classic rock concept album
I think this is my favorite song by The Who. And “Behind Blue Eyes.”
I agree! I love that song!
Heard it 1,000 times- almost takes my breath away every time.
That drum fill by Moon at the end is staggering.
He’s so unique. It’s like he’s soloing over the entire song but it doesnt sound too pretentious, it works.
I always count off those nine beats before it ends. I saw them live in '74 on their Quadrophenia Tour. What can I say. Crazy good. Side note: Lynyrd Skynyrd was their opening act. THEY slayed as well.
I totally agree and don't forget the guitar solo (slide/riff) too.
@@p.goldman1885 The thing about Moon is that his fills and grooves "seem" sporadic and undisciplined until you slow them down and write them down, bar by bar, note by note and you realize how much of a genius he was. I started playing drums at age 15 and finally took the time to learn how to read and write music JUST so I could transcribe Moon's playing to break it down and see for myself what he's doing. He's the Gene Krupa to Buddy Rich's John Bonham, to put it another way.
It's really great to see Jay and Amber feeling the raw power of this song and being moved by it the way we did back in the 70s🥹🔥🔥🔥 There's no expiration date on the emotional effects this song. It will move people across time...
Yes, thank you! Roger Daltrey's greatest vocal! 515 by The Who, that's the one you need to hear next!
Yep and cut my hair
A masterpiece of songwriting and performance. The thunder of the drums and the lightning of his voice evokes audible imagery.
Very well said!
From their 1973 Quadrophenia album. Another concept album turned into a movie.
Desert Island album. One of the best ever.
I don't remember, but I think they wrote the movie as an album first. I'm thinking Pete Townsend wrote the screen play or something.
That movie is amazing
One of best songs done by The Who.
Roger Daltrey is singing like it's his last day on earth, stunning performance.
Exsctly. People talk about Plant and the dude from but to me daltrey as the grestest voice in rock.
One of my favorite Who Songs Ever! Thank You, Jay and Amber...
I love how The Who is using the words rain and reign, which are homophones, to emphasize that they want LOVE to reign O’er me, and to rain ON me. Great song and great reaction.
I don't think modern songwriting even attempts something like this.
Homophone? What two adult phones do in the privacy of their own homes is no business of mine...
A towering giant of a song. Should be required listening for anyone with ears…, and a soul. A masterpiece. Perfection!!!
The Who at the peak of their power! Between The Who and Zeppelin, us 70' s kids were spoiled rotten musically. I pray somehow music comes back to this level someday, it's a tragedy that our young people aren't getting to experience anything like this song.😢
You took the words right out of my mouth. I think it was the best era of music. You can’t leave out Pink Floyd, and really many, many others. We were so lucky to grow up then. I went to Tulane in ‘76 and was in a band, and even though it was a so-called intellectual university, absolutely everyone played an instrument, and most were damn good at it
So fun! I still remember the first time I heard this, we were all blown away. And yeah, Rogers' voice on this is just something else.
What a great song, both lyrically and musically. Very powerful.
The closing song of the legendary double album Quadrophenia. Imo better than Tommy
Tommy was a watershed project hard to judge for me... loved em' both.
Quadrophenia is amazing so is the movie
I was lucky enough to see them when they toured doing the whole Quadrophenia album. It was awesome.
@@Chris-kw3pvagreed
@@ladyamythyst69same here. Was awesome.
Every now and then, an iconic monster of a song comes up that it's so much fun knowing you two have no idea what you're in store for. The Who and rock at it's finest.
For me, this is The Who’s defining masterpiece.
Roger Daltrey's best performance, IMHO(yes, there are numerous candidates for that honor). To understate, Pete Townsend can write a song.
RIP Keith Moon and John Entwhistle
Pete once said, only Roger can sing my songs properly. Case in point....
I knew that you two were going to love this one. This, in my opinion, is a masterpiece. Just such a great blend of classical instruments... piano, strings, timpani and more modern musical instruments...guitar, bass and drums.. and Mr. Daltry's powerful and emotional vocals. So well crafted. Sometimes I believe, we are witnessing the devolution of entertainment.
No form of entertainment lately seems to have any imagination, human experience or passion.
😢
All time favorite of the Who’s library
Been to over 100 concerts of about 70 different acts.
This was hands down, the best song I'd ever seen performed live. Daltrey puts every ounce of his being into this song whenever he sings it.
I am so jealous right now.
I've seen them twice, 24 years apart. Flawless both times!
I was fortunate enough to see The Who in the summer of 1980. I had just graduated from high school and it was an epic concert in Los Angeles.
Finale of one of the greatest all time classic rock albums.
One of my favorite songs of all time and my favorite Who song of one of my top five albums of all time. The songs works best in context of ending the album and story on it, but it's an amazing song with Roger's most amazing vocal performance.
Judges score - 🔟 🔟🔟
😂
My friend used this as her wedding song. What an insanely unique, badass choice! I can only imagine the reaction from the folks at the reception, hearing Daltrey scream.
Greatest Rock Band Ever
I didn't realize you two hadn't already reacted to this. I've seen the Who 14 times...the first when they were first touring this album in 1973...and they really are this good!
I was only able to see them twice, but the first time was a certain concert in Leeds, England. The second time was 1985 in San Diego, very different experiences. Unbelievable live band. ✌️
Live at Leeds is the greatest live album ever!
Townshend’s genius writing, rock’s most powerful singer, it’s greatest rhythm section - just the mighty, glorious Who!🎸
Hearing this song in concert is mind-blowing 🔥
Yes, especially when backed by a full orchestra, or at least a string section
I'm grateful to have been able to see them in concert a few times and to see them do this song live is memorably
‘Quadrophenia’ is an epic concept album. I would like to see more reactions from it. There is also a movie!
co-starring a young Sting!
Toyah Wilcox, Phil Daniels,Ray Winston, Leslie Ash, and half of the Bill and Casualty
BELLBOY !?!?
@@Chris-kw3pv I didn't realize Toyah was in the movie too. Now they have to watch it!
@kevinsacks3185 yeah she is monkey and very young. (Monkey is her character name)
Jay and Amber Thank you for bringing this to us all. This song is top notch.
Every time I hear this song in the car, I blast it over my speakers, and speed down the highway. This is one of the greatest Who songs ever, and Keith Moon’s drumming at the end is insanely amazing!!!!
So powerful, you cant listen and not get emotional w this song, best song the band has ever done, Quadrophenia is a must listen or react to the movie of the same name, this song is one of the best rock anthems of all time.
The ULTIMATE Who tune is ‘WONT GET FOOLED AGAIN’ it will blow your mind!!! Live at Shepperton Studios is amazing!
As someone who grew up with The Who, being their favorite band, I I just love it when younger people discover their music. This is my favorite band, my favorite album and my favorite song of all time. So happy you guys love it!
From an era when rock was king, rockstars were demigods, and every week some new song dropped and blew your mind.
So so good ❤just the bigness of their music is legendary! Right after 9/11 they joined others in the concert for NYC and when they took the stage they blew the roof off of MSG! Truly classic 👏🏻
I just rewatched that last week. Absolutely stunning!
The album Quadrophenia. MASTERPIECE !
At last! 3 years of suggesting arguably the greatest rock experience there is.
Thank you lovely people.
Yes... Me toooooo!
I finally got to see The Who for the first time in concert in 2022. They absolutely KILLED this song. The crowd erupted when Roger sang that final "LOVE"! He freakin' nailed it!
My all time favourite song from the Who, saw this done live three times and what an experience it was each time. It took weeks for my ears to begin working normally again.
Good wife, but more importantly, good husband! Good for you, sir!
Tommy and Quad. Two of the top rock albums of all time and certainly tops of the concept albums of all times brought to us from the genius of Townshend. No modern day band can even come close.
Quadrophenia is by far my favorite Who album. The music is powerful and the songs are brilliant, not to mention that the musicianship is excellent!
So glad your journey finally led here, been waiting for this one for quite a while. Just an amazing song, Daltrey's vocals are exceptional, and the arrangement Pete puts together is just perfect. Keith with the killer solo.
Pearl Jam did a version at a show honoring the who with an orchestra that was beautiful
Last song off the album "Quadrophenia" - legendary rock anthem hardly covers it...
In a time of soooo much wrong, I come here to you folks to find solace and strength to face my fears and doubts. Please you two, stay well, stay excellent! Keep doing for the world what you two are doing!
one of the best songs ever! the passion behind his voice is insane!
One of the greatest songs ever. There are few perfect songs in the world. This is definitely one.
I think "Drive Home" by Steven Wilson is by the way. Stay to the very end.
Everybody knows how much I love music. I am asked a lot of what bands is the best ever. The Who is always.
The Who could be the most talented band, instrumentally, that there has ever been. And their singer is pretty good too.
Oh boy. Left-handed compliment?
My favorite Who song. Love the introduction.
That song will never not give me goosebumps.
Such a masterpiece ❤
Heard Daltry admit recently that this song was his favorite to sing, but then said it was like trying to to pick a favorite child.
He has always been so loyal to Pete's songs.
Sitting here in my The Who T-shirt listening to this Epic song. Pete was a genius!
You just can't beat the 70's with a stick. I was a concert goer and to see these bands live was like heaven.
Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Pink Floyd and so many more. 😁
One of The Who's greatest tracks....and that says a lot. Elite track from one of Rock's greatest bands.
Quadrophenia. My favorite album ever, by any band. I wish I could hear it for the first time again.
One of the greatest bands of all time really pouring their intelligence and extreme talents into a song. And if you listen to all of Quadrophenia, you know the story, have heard the Love Reign O’er Me riff threaded throughout and realise the intensity of a true rock opera. These days The Who doesn’t get the attention they richly deserve. Thanks for listening.
My favorite Band of all time = The WHO...Great reaction 🙂So glad you appreciate the many layers of this great rock n roll band...So many great tunes---The FOUR members were/are excellent musicians...No other band is like The Who. "LONG LIVE ROCK N' ROLL, Be it dead or alive...." Pete Townshend one of the best writers and underappreciated guitarists of all time...The Music of The Who will be listened to for thousands of years to come. Peace to all.
Aside from praising a good song, I want to praise you two for investing in this reaction platform so wholeheartedly. Music has been such asignificant, integral and therepuetic element in my life and your transparent engagement is priceless to me. Thank you, and I'll shamelessly suggest that you venture down the Cheap Trick rabbit hole (one of my all time favorite live bands) starting perhaps with 'Hold On' (live at the Budukon) and maybe some B-tracks of Heart, such as 'Love Alive'. As a homeless person ,sadly, I can't participate with your patreon channel. You two are awesome! Keep up the magic--music is the universal thread that connects us all. God bless you!
One of my all time favorite The Who songs. The vocals are another level and the instruments...divine!
Finally! Now do The Real Me or 5:15 from the same album
or both and Had Enough
"The Real Me" by WASP. Once you hear their version and see the video, you can never return to the Who's version.
Yeah man, let’s get out of our brains on the train!
Yesss!! My favorite who album and real me and 5::15 my favorite tracks .. got to see them perform this in 1978/79 as a 12 year old in Boston … amazing
Yesssssssss or better yet.... cover and react to the entire album!!!!
Pete Townshend....GENIUS!
Nobody mentioned Keith. He's drumming was beyond great!
I’ve seen them live a number of times, they have so many truly top 100 songs and this is definitely one in the upper tier
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I suggested this over a year ago and I’m so glad you two have finally listened to it. One of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll songs of all time. Love you guys!!
LOVE the Who! Seen them twice. They did a great version of this one in 2016. He still had the voice he had as a younger man.
I wore this album out!
So did I!!
So glad I was young in this era when quality music exploded
Great pick,play behind blue eyes
Excellent reaction of my favorite band...and one of my favorite songs of all time!
This song is the climax (last song) of their rock opera album, Quadrophenia, one of the best albums of the rock era.
I saw Heart do this song in concert. It was amazing.
This song always gives me chills. One of my favs from this epic band.
Jay & Amber, you'll love their song "5:15" !!! Thanks for getting to this one!!!
Oh I love 5:15. Out of my brain on the train. 🚂
Makes my hair stand on ends every time.
Don't forget The Real Me!
…. And Cut My Hair
P.S.- I saw The Who LIVE. I also saw Roger Daltrey LIVE. Yes. It was really this good!
Best stuff ever!! It’s the Who what else! Epic!❤
Rock and roll masterpiece! This song literally gives me goosebumps every single time I listen to it. You guys are the best, thank you for sharing this song.
My absolute favorite Who song 🎵 🤘🎸
The Who at their most dramatic and majestic. Brilliant!
Super 🔥 song and reaction more who and any beatles that you haven't heard ty yall😊
NOBODY does an impassioned howl, like Roger Daltrey!!
You might want to check out some solo Roger Daltrey - without your love, walking in my sleep, after the fire, under a raging moon, let me down easy, leon. And also some solo Pete townsend - rough boys, face dances, face the face, give blood, secondhand love
Under a raging moon is epic in many ways
Without Your Love is my favorite tune! Good suggestion, sir!
It has been truly unique to watch both of you grow in your musical knowledge and deepen your understanding of how artists' instruments are being played, bringing so much more to their stories. The way you both capture the nuances of the music and weave it seamlessly with the artist's lyrics is nothing short of inspiring. Your ability to understand the sounds that helps' with their storytelling is remarkable, and seeing how far you've come is exciting! Your passion for music shines through every elevation of the songs and your emotions behind them. You have a gift, and I can't wait to see how the rest unfolds for you two, touching hearts and inspiring others along the way.
Daltrey in his prime. Pretty sure Roger says it both ways during the course of the song. It's the close of Quadrophenia when Jimmy decides to live
The whole band were at their prime on this album.
As for the ending, the movie is more optimistic but the original album is more bittersweet. The album doesn’t say if Jimmy lives or not, but it doesn’t look like he has much of a chance.