The Relay

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin "The Relay" by The Who, a track that’s got some wild vibes and a fascinating backstory! Originally released in 1972 as the B-side to the single "Join Together," "The Relay" was also known as "Relay" in some markets, causing a bit of confusion among fans. Pete Townshend, the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, wrote this high-energy rocker, which was intended as part of his ambitious but unfinished Lifehouse project—a sci-fi rock opera that was shelved but later mined for tracks on Who’s Next. In a 1972 interview with Rolling Stone, Townshend described "The Relay" as a song about communication and rebellion in a dystopian world, with its driving rhythm meant to evoke urgency and connection. Fun fact: the song’s distinctive synth arpeggios were played on an ARP 2600 synthesizer, a cutting-edge instrument at the time that gave it that futuristic edge perfect for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic spins.

Another cool tidbit comes from a 2019 post on The Who’s official X account, where they shared a throwback photo of the band performing "The Relay" live during their 1972 tour, noting it was a rare treat since the song wasn’t a regular in their setlists. Fans on The Who’s Facebook page chimed in, with one recalling how the song’s pulsating beat got the crowd “absolutely mental” at a London show. The Who Are You - The Who Fan Group on Facebook is a great spot for Zoo Freaks to dive deeper, as members often share bootleg recordings and debate the song’s place in the band’s catalog. Over on The Who’s Instagram, a 2021 post celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Lifehouse sessions, hinting that "The Relay" was a “hidden gem” that captured the band’s experimental spirit. If you’re digging for more, check out The Who Forum, a fan-run website where diehards swap stories and trivia about tracks like this one.

Now, let’s rewind to how The Who got their start, because these legends didn’t just stumble into rock stardom. Formed in London in 1964, the band—originally called The Detours—came together when Roger Daltrey (vocals) recruited Pete Townshend (guitar) and John Entwistle (bass), with Keith Moon joining later as their explosive drummer. According to their official bio on thewho.com, the group was born out of the gritty West London mod scene, where they played covers of R&B and rock ‘n’ roll before Townshend started penning original songs. Their big break came with the 1965 single “I Can’t Explain,” which hit the UK charts and showcased their raw energy and Townshend’s knack for writing anthems about youthful angst. The band’s early days were marked by chaotic live shows, with Townshend smashing guitars and Moon trashing drum kits, earning them a reputation as rock’s wildest act. By the time they released their groundbreaking rock opera Tommy in 1969, The Who were global icons, blending raw power with ambitious storytelling.

For Zoo Freaks wanting to connect with the band’s legacy, The Who’s official website is your go-to for tour dates, merch, and archival goodies. Follow them on Facebook for fan discussions and live stream announcements, or check Instagram for behind-the-scenes snaps and vintage photos. Their X account is active with updates and witty banter, often engaging directly with fans. For community vibes, the Who Are You - The Who Fan Group on Facebook is buzzing with devotees sharing everything from concert memories to rare vinyl finds. Fan-run sites like The Who Forum and TheWho.net offer forums, discographies, and deep dives into the band’s history. So, crank up "The Relay," join the Zoo Crew’s vibe, and let The Who’s rebel spirit take you for a ride!