Letting Go: The Story of The Who's 'Dogs' and the Art of Moving On
Releasing a beloved creative project can be a challenging decision for any artist, especially when it comes to letting go of something that doesn't quite hit the mark. The Who, a renowned rock 'n' roll band, faced this dilemma in June 1968 with their track "Dogs," which marked a significant low point in their career. Vocalist Roger Daltrey candidly expressed his thoughts on the song, revealing that it was Pete Townshend's tribute to Ronnie Lane of Small Faces, a band known for hits like "Itchycoo Park" and "Lazy Sunday."
Despite Townshend's intentions to make "Dogs" more radio-friendly for the BBC, the single only reached No. 25 on the charts in the UK, a disappointing outcome for The Who. Daltrey suggested that Townshend should have given the song to Small Faces instead, as their similar track, "Lazy Sunday," had achieved greater success. Despite the initial reception, "Dogs" eventually garnered retrospective acclaim, showcasing the band's willingness to experiment with their sound.
Reflecting on the experience, Daltrey fondly remembered Ronnie Lane and the members of Small Faces, acknowledging their talent and camaraderie. The creative process can be a tumultuous journey, but sometimes letting go of a darling project can lead to unexpected outcomes and new opportunities for growth.