Pete Townshend is unhappy over a snub by the UK classical music charts for The Who’s newly-released package, “Classic Quadrophenia.”
The project sees the guitarist create a new orchestral version of the band’s 1973 concept album based around lead character Jimmy’s search for an identity amongst the mods and rockers in Brighton in the mid-1960s.
"Classic Quadrophenia is not allowed in the UK Classical Charts?!,” says Townshend. “Musical snobbery in the classical elite still alive & kicking then.
"There's a huge team behind this, rooted in the practical world of recorded classical music, who deserve better than this petty slap-down. I know I'm a rock dinosaur and I'm happy to be one, but the team behind Classic Quadrophenia are all young, creative and brilliant."
"Classic Quadrophenia will be treated like any other album of contemporary music recorded in a classical style,” said a spokesperson for the Official Charts Company. "The industry-agreed Official Chart rules stipulate clearly that to qualify for the Official Classical Chart, each album will be judged on the works performed on the album - and that these works must be composed by recognized classical composers and/or in a publicly-recognized classical idiom or form.
"The album will qualify for the Official Albums Chart, however - we wish it all the best."
Orchestrated by Rachel Fuller, “Classic Quadrophenia” features Townshend and guest vocalists Alfie Boe, Billy Idol and Phil Daniels joined by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Robert Zeigler.
“Classic Quadrophenia” will be launched with a world premiere concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall on July 5, with Townshend and Boe performing alongside the orchestra and the London Oriana Choir.
The Who recently wrapped up a spring North American leg of their 50th anniversary farewell tour, “The Who Hits 50!”
See also:
The Who: Live At Leeds 45th anniversary featured on In The Studio
VIDEO: Bruce Springsteen jams with The Who
VIDEO: Roger Daltrey threatens to end Who show due to pot smoke
The Who: Pete Townshend previews new solo collection Truancy
Search The Who at hennemusic
