John Entwistle

Date of Birth: October 9, 1944

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: June 27, 2002

Biography

John Alec Entwistle, born on October 9, 1944, in Chiswick, London, England, was a renowned English musician, songwriter, and bassist best known as the bass guitarist for the rock band The Who. Entwistle’s musical journey began at a young age, and he quickly demonstrated a prodigious talent for the bass guitar, which would later earn him the nickname “The Ox” due to his solid and unmovable presence on stage. Entwistle co-founded The Who in 1964 alongside Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, and Keith Moon. His innovative bass playing and distinctive sound were instrumental in shaping the band’s unique style. Known for his “lead bass” playing, Entwistle was a pioneer in using the bass guitar as a solo instrument in rock music, influencing countless musicians who followed. In addition to his work with The Who, Entwistle had a successful solo career, releasing several albums and showcasing his skills as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. He was also an avid collector of musical instruments and memorabilia. John Entwistle’s life came to a tragic end on June 27, 2002, in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he passed away from a heart attack at the age of 57. His legacy continues to live on through his contributions to music and his influence on bass players worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about John Entwistle

1. John Entwistle was known for his pioneering use of the treble and bass controls on his bass guitar, creating a distinctive and powerful sound.

2. He was one of the first rock musicians to use a full-stack amplification system, contributing to The Who’s reputation for having one of the loudest live shows.

3. Entwistle was also an accomplished artist, creating cartoon-like drawings and illustrations, many of which were related to The Who and their music.

4. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Who in 1990.

5. Entwistle’s “Boris the Spider,” written for The Who’s 1966 album “A Quick One,” became a cult favorite and remains one of the band’s most memorable songs.