Getting in Tune

By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter

The Who wrote a song for an album they released called Who’s Next called “Getting in Tune.”

Although the song, like many songs of that era, was about picking up a girl, the lyrics have some other meaning to them as well.

“I’m sending this note ’cause it fits in well

With the chords I’m playing

I can’t pretend there’s any meaning here

Or the things I’m saying

But I’m in tune.”

He’s singing about being into with the music within him.

In a flow state.

Music has no meaning per se but is in harmony with life.

Contrast that with later lyrics in the song.

I’ve got it all here in my head
There’s nothing more needs to be said
I’m just bangin’ on my old piano
I’m getting in tune to the straight and narrow

Banging on my old piano.

Getting in tune to the straight and narrow

Dissonant music is what comes to mind.

Not in flow.

Harsh.