I'm One


"I'm One" is a song by The Who. It was released on the group's 1973 rock opera album Quadrophenia. Written and sung by Pete Townshend, the song has since become a fan favorite.

Background

"I'm One" is one of the main moments of introspection spread throughout the narrative and also a sign that Jimmy may not be as Mod as he appears, given the way he asks a fellow Mod where he got his clothes. Pete Townshend said of the song's lyrical inspiration:
The song features an acoustic opening followed by the rest of the band joining in.
"I'm One" was one of the ten original Quadrophenia tracks to appear in remixed form on the soundtrack to the Who's 1979 film Quadrophenia, which was based on the original rock opera. This version of the song also saw single release as the B-side to the 1979 remixed single release of "5.15."
The song is featured on the soundtrack for Freaks and Geeks in the episode "Dead Dogs and Gym Teachers", which featured many of the Who's songs.

Live performances

This song was performed first on the band's original 1973-1974 Quadrophenia Tour, but it was never performed with Moon again afterwards. It made sporadic appearances in the 1981, 1982 and 1989 tours as well. It was then brought back for every concert on the 1996-1997 Quadrophenia Tour. Performances after that, from 2000 onward, were often performed by Pete Townshend alone on stage.

Appearances

The following Who albums and DVDs feature "I'm One":