The Who

Lyrics

[Instrumental Intro]

[Verse 1]
You talk about your woman
I wish you could see mine
Yeah, you talk about your woman
I wish you could see mine
Every time she starts to lovin'
She brings eyesight to the blind

[Verse 2]
You know her daddy gave her magic
I can tell by the way she walks
Her daddy gave her magic
I can tell by the way she walks
Every time she starts to shakin'
The dumb begin to talk

[Instrumental Bridge]

[Verse 3]
She's got the power to heal you, never fear
Oh, she's got the power to heal you, never fear
Just a word from her lips
And the deaf begin to hearSee The Who LiveGet tickets as low as $54

“Eyesight to the Blind” is a powerful and poignant song written by the British rock band The Who. It is the only cover song present in their iconic 1969 rock opera album, Tommy. The song tells the story of Tommy, a young boy who becomes deaf, dumb and blind following a traumatic event. In an effort to cure him, his parents give him to a pimp known as “The Hawker”, who gives him to a prostitute and attempts to restore his senses with drugs. The song is a moving commentary on the desperation of parental love and the corrupt nature of those who prey upon the weak and vulnerable.

About Eyesight to the Blind (The Hawker)

The original version of “Eyesight to the Blind (The Hawker)” was recorded by Sonny Boy Williamson II, as a 12-bar blues in 1951. The Who version, however, is more closely based on Mose Allison’s cover from 1959, which was discovered and brought to the attention of Pete Townshend, the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter. This rendition features heavily distorted guitars and energetic drumming, which create a sense of urgency and unease that mirror the chaotic subject matter of the song.

The track opens with a driving guitar riff and the haunting wail of harmonica, which creates an ominous atmosphere that sets the tone for the song. The vocals are delivered in a theatrical style, alternating between a menacing growl and a plaintive plea for help. The lyrics describe the depraved actions of The Hawker, who hopes to make money from Tommy’s disability. They paint a vivid picture of the cruel and sordid underbelly of society, where innocence and vulnerability are exploited and abused without mercy or remorse.

The chorus of the song, which is repeated several times throughout, is a plea for salvation and a desperate call for help. It speaks to the universal human desire for hope and healing, in the face of overwhelming despair and darkness. The lyrics are a powerful commentary on the human condition, highlighting the fragility of life and the capacity for evil that resides within us all.

Despite the dark subject matter of “Eyesight to the Blind”, the song is an undeniable masterpiece of rock and roll music. The Who’s version is a high-energy tour de force, showcasing the band’s signature sound and musical virtuosity. From John Entwistle’s thundering basslines to Roger Daltrey’s soulful vocals, every aspect of the song is crafted with precision and care. It is a testament to the enduring power of music, and an affirmation of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In the years since it was first released, “Eyesight to the Blind (The Hawker)” has become a beloved classic of rock and roll music. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Eric Clapton and B.B. King, and has been featured in a variety of films and television shows. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal appeal of its message, and its ability to touch the hearts and souls of millions of listeners around the world.

The Bottom Line

In short, “Eyesight to the Blind (The Hawker)” is a powerful and deeply moving song that speaks to the human experience in all its complexity and fragility. From its haunting opening notes to its frantic and urgent chorus, the song is a masterpiece of rock and roll music that continues to inspire and resonate with listeners today. If you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing this incredible track, be sure to give it a listen - you won’t be disappointed.

• Release Date: May 23, 1969
• Artist: The Who