Royal Mail has unveiled a special set of 12 stamps to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the legendary rock band The Who. The stamps feature images of some of the band’s most iconic album covers as well as group shots from their live performances.
The collection includes album covers from several of The Who’s classic records, such as “My Generation” (1965), “Tommy” (1969), “Who’s Next” (1971), “Quadrophenia” (1973), “Who Are You” (1978), “Face Dances” (1981), “Endless Wire” (2006), and “Who” (2019). Additionally, a miniatures sheet highlights two group publicity shots alongside two live performance images—one from the Marquee Club in London in 1967 and another from King’s Hall in Belle Vue, Manchester, in 1973.
The Who, formed in 1964 by Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon, are widely regarded as one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Known for their electrifying performances and powerful sound, some of the band’s greatest hits include “I Can See for Miles,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “I Can’t Explain.” Within just five years, they went from playing small club shows to headlining the iconic Woodstock festival and becoming one of the biggest box-office draws in the world.
Reflecting on the new stamp collection, lead vocalist Roger Daltrey said, “The artwork on the album sleeves was almost as important to the success of the record as the music. It’s great to be reminded of them.”
Bandmate Pete Townshend added, “Stamp! Stamp! Stamp! It’s what I’ve done on stage all my life, sometimes in the air. At last, my stamping, and that of my buddy Roger, has been honoured properly, and will help letters, parcels, and birthday cards travel through time and space, just as we have.
David Gold, Royal Mail’s Director of External Affairs and Policy, spoke about the band’s impact: “With their truly original sound and effortless ability to mix musical styles, The Who are rock royalty. These stamps celebrate one of the UK’s much-loved and revered musical bands who have achieved global popularity for six decades.
The new collection of stamps commemorates the enduring influence of The Who and their contribution to the music world over the past 60 years. For fans and collectors, it offers a nostalgic tribute to one of the greatest rock bands in history, capturing their music and legacy in a unique and lasting form.
