It's Hard
The Who · 1982
70 min · 16 tracks · hard rock · progressive rock · R&B
A blend of polished rock anthems and introspective ballads that reflect the band's evolving artistry.
Why this album works
- Best for
- reflective late-night listening dynamic emotional journeys gradual builds and payoffs
- Context
- Released on September 4, 1982, 'It's Hard' was The Who's first studio album in over three years, marking a transition for the band after the death of drummer Keith Moon. With diminished commercial success compared to their earlier work, this album showcased the surviving members' struggle to adapt to a changing music landscape while still trying to maintain their distinctive sound.
- If you like
- hard rock, progressive rock, R&B
It's Hard is an album by The Who, released in 1982. A blend of polished rock anthems and introspective ballads that reflect the band's evolving artistry. 'It's Hard' peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured singles like 'Athena' that received considerable radio play. The album is notable for its exploration of themes like loss and disillusionment, reflecting the band's maturity during a tumultuous period in rock history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does It's Hard sound like?
A blend of polished rock anthems and introspective ballads that reflect the band's evolving artistry. Rooted in hard rock and progressive rock.
What makes It's Hard by The Who notable?
'It's Hard' peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured singles like 'Athena' that received considerable radio play. The album is notable for its exploration of themes like loss and disillusionment, reflecting the band's maturity during a tumultuous period in rock history. Released on September 4, 1982, 'It's Hard' was The Who's first studio album in over three years, marking a transition for the band after the death of drummer Keith Moon. With diminished commercial success compared to their earlier work, this album showcased the surviving members' struggle to adapt to a changing music landscape while still trying to maintain their distinctive sound.
Who is It's Hard for?
It's Hard works well if you're into reflective late-night listening, dynamic emotional journeys and gradual builds and payoffs.
How many songs are on It's Hard?
It's Hard has 16 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Athena Standout 3:47
- 2 It’s Your Turn 3:40
- 3 Cooks County 3:52
- 4 It’s Hard 3:50
- 5 Dangerous 3:34
- 6 Eminence Front Standout 5:39
- 7 I’ve Known No War 5:56
- 8 One Life’s Enough 2:21
- 9 One at a Time 3:18
- 10 Why Did I Fall for That 3:56
- 11 A Man Is a Man 3:55
- 12 Cry If You Want 5:23
- 13 It’s Hard (live) 4:56
- 14 Eminence Front (live) 5:43
- 15 Dangerous (live) 3:48
- 16 Cry If You Want (live) 7:12
Release Date
September 4, 1982
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
70 min 56 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
