A custom-built bass guitar crafted at home during his teenage years set the trajectory for a career that redefined the role of the instrument in rock music. Moving away from the subtle rhythm sections common in the mid-twentieth century, the Chiswick-born musician developed a treble-rich, aggressive sound that cut through the noise of his band, The Who.
Early Musical Development
Born in 1944, Entwistle was raised in Chiswick and educated at Ark Acton Academy. His formal musical training began at age seven with piano lessons, eventually transitioning to the trumpet and then the French horn while participating in the Middlesex Schools Orchestra. During his time at school, he formed a jazz band called the Confederates with Pete Townshend. Finding the trumpet insufficient for rock and roll, he shifted to guitar before settling on the bass guitar due to his large hands and an interest in the low-frequency tones favored by Duane Eddy.
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Upon joining Roger Daltrey in the Detours, Entwistle played a vital role in integrating Townshend into the lineup. As the band evolved into The Who, Entwistle became known for a high-volume approach using Marshall Stacks. This configuration was necessary to compete with the rapid-fire drumming of Keith Moon and Townshend's own amplification. This pursuit of volume helped The Who establish a reputation as the loudest band on the planet, eventually reaching 126 decibels at a 1976 London concert.
Solo Endeavors and Later Years
Seeking creative autonomy, Entwistle became the first member of The Who to launch a solo career with his 1971 album, Smash Your Head Against the Wall. He recorded seven solo studio albums throughout his career, with the 1981 release Too Late the Hero standing as his best-selling work. His influence as a composer and multi-instrumentalist was recognized globally, culminating in his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the receipt of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Fast facts
- Born: 1944, Chiswick
- Died: 2002, Las Vegas
- Member of: The Who, John Entwistle Band
- Nicknames: The Ox, Thunderfingers
- Instrumental innovation: Treble-rich bass lines
- Education: Ark Acton Academy
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
- Occupation: Bassist, composer, record producer
Questions readers ask
Why was John Entwistle nicknamed The Ox?
The nickname stemmed from his strong constitution and his perceived ability to consume more food and drink than his bandmates.
Did Entwistle perform on every The Who studio album?
He contributed songs to every studio album except for the 1973 release Quadrophenia.
Achievements
- Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
- Worked as singer-songwriter, bassist and guitarist