By Todd Russell
The Who have a bunch of great rock songs and their iconic guitarist, Pete Townshend has penned many. The website Singersroom rated the top 10 Townshend songs, rating “Pinball Wizard” as #3.
With its infectious melody, driving rhythm, and memorable lyrics, “Pinball Wizard” quickly became one of The Who’s most beloved and enduring hits. Townshend’s intricate guitar playing, highlighted by the song’s distinctive riff, adds to its irresistible appeal and showcases his virtuosity as a musician. “Pinball Wizard” not only serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of “Tommy” but also stands on its own as a timeless rock classic.
10 Best Pete Townshend Songs of All Time – Singersroom.com
There have been many covers of “Pinball Wizard” and among the most popular is Elton John’s take for the 1975 film Tommy (where to watch Tommy via JustWatch). Of course, pinball fans can choose “Pinball Wizard” as a background song while playing the Jersey Jack Pinball Elton John.
Playlist created by Colin / Kineticist via their extensive Elton John Pinball coverage
In the Pinball Wizard segment of Tommy, Wikipedia has the details about which pins were being played (bolding by PGM):
The Pinball Wizard sequence was shot at the Kings Theatre in Southsea and the two pinball machines used were a 1965 Kings & Queens by Gottlieb—used by Roger Daltrey—and a Gottlieb Buckaroo also from 1965, used by Elton John. The machines’ scoring displays were modified from their originals for the scene, to accommodate for large scores. Other locations on Portsdown Hill, which overlooks Portsmouth and local churches were used. All Saints in Commercial Road was used for the Sally Simpson wedding scene, whilst the meeting in the same sequence was filmed at the Wesley Hall in Fratton Road. The Eyesight to the Blind sequence was filmed at St Andrews Church in Henderson Road in Southsea. The other church featured was Warblington Church near Havant in Hampshire.
Tommy (1975 film) – Wikipedia
If you haven’t seen the musical psychological odessey known as Tommy, I hadn’t either, but did prior to writing this article. Do not expect dialogue, instead a ton of music and a (very!) bizarre narrative with some really catch rock guitar riffs from The Who. And yes, they are featured in the movie, too.
Want to play virtual pinball versions of the two Gottlieb machines? Here: Kings and Queens (Gottlieb 1965 VPX) and Buckaroo (Gottlieb 1965 VPX)
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