The Who - I'm Free - Tommy (1975)

"I'm Free" is a song written by Pete Townshend and performed by The Who on the album Tommy. Within the plot of the album, "I'm Free" tells of Tommy's vision to spiritually enlighten others due to his sudden and immense popularity. The Pinball Wizard riff (earlier on the album) appears at the end of the song during the "How can we follow?" part. This song was used in the 1969-1970 concert classic set list. It is often switched with Sensation on setlists, including in the movie and in the Broadway musical as Tommy rejoices at regaining his sight, voice and hearing after the shock provided by his mother..

In 1975-1976, the song was reintegrated into The Who's set list. The version played at these shows featured more raucous vocals and a reworked guitar riff.

It was later released as a single, reaching number 37 in the U.S. on the Billboard Hot 100.[1] It also reached #20 in the Netherlands.[2]

In 1997, the Christian rock band Geoff Moore and the Distance covered this song, on the album Threads.

In 2002, The Who played this for a stretch on their 2002 UK Tour, with a similar arrangement to the versions played on the 1975-1976 tour. However, it was dropped again by the time bassist Entwistle died.

In 2004/2006, a cover version was recorded by Neal Morse with the participation of Randy George and Mike Portnoy, released 2006 on the album Cover to Cover.

In 2009, The Smithereens included the song on their tribute album, The Smithereens Play Tommy.

The song has been used in a Saab commercial.[3]

[tonyjagger]

I saw Tommy when i was 12.The Who and their music change my life.

[carlolf]

This guy is not also a fantastic singer, but also knows who to swim like a water animal. Great song. Postet it on the day I left my days as a working guy.

[robertgormley]

I felt like this when I was a teenager, I want that feeling again.

[tjtinsurvivaltin]

Roger Daltrey swimming like a BOSS!! He OWNED that pool!! And he’s FREE!

[mustangmikep]

a truly "peak" moment!!!! He's are you ready to follow him down the "rabbit hole"?

[michivarese]

I'll shout it out when I can finally retire!!!!

[kurtiserikson]

I love the redemptive splash in the ocean followed by a blinding sun . Powerful symbolism of someone breaking free from the bonds that caged their spirits. When watching this scene, you feel like you share in the moment of euphoria.

[martynwhitworth]

MOST UPLIFTING SONG AND VERSION OF MY YOUNG AND OLD LIFE .... Makes me realise I am actually FREE ... Song come into my head so many times when I could see thru hardships ..

[jeancucchi]

I just found the courage to leave an abusive relationship. I’m free 🎉

[nina]

I used to sing this every year on the last day of school.

[Jazna]

I retired today after 48 years. This is the song I have in my head all day.

[toddleslie]

This version is definitely one of the few uplifting moments in "Tommy". A slight bit faster than the original album version.
Roger Daltry's energy adds life and vitality to the segment.

[bellestarr]

Saw the movie at least ten times...shaped so much of my life. Where is my time machine when I need it.

[rustyshackleford]

Man, I wish I could still run like that.

[trocouc]

Awesome! I grew up with these dudes. The world suck today in comparison. If I had a Time Machine I would go back in a heartbeat and leave this shit behind. You had to be there to understand.

[rainelind]

I always listen to this song as I go on variation.
Never falls too make me happy.😃

[bluebassett]

Now that's how a electric guitar should sound! Pure Rock 'n' Roll.

[rjnuzzi]

Townsend's great reworking of an already classic Who song. Finally & logically the song follows 'Smash The Mirror'. Daltrey is at the apex of his vocal might. He's great here in an O.K. Ken Russell film. This vocal is different than the Soundtrack release.

[belindahutchings]

Wow, I think I was in grade school when I saw this movie, and fell so in love with Roger Daltry! Those eyes...and white pants....those flips...LOL!

[paraguard]

This song will be played at my funeral!!!