From a Joke to a Rock Classic: Why The Who’s “Boris The Spider” Still Captivates Audiences Decades Later
Few songs in classic rock have such an unusual origin story as “Boris The Spider.” Performed by The Who and written by bassist John Entwistle, the track transformed a humorous idea into one of the band’s most memorable live moments and helped establish Entwistle as more than just the quiet figure standing behind the front line.
According to Entwistle’s own recollections, the song was composed in roughly six minutes after a lighthearted conversation with Bill Wyman about amusing animal names. What began as a spontaneous joke quickly became a fan favorite and eventually found a permanent place in The Who’s concert repertoire.
The live performance remains especially significant because it places Entwistle at the center of attention. While Pete Townshend was responsible for much of the group’s songwriting, “Boris The Spider” gave the bassist an opportunity to step into the spotlight as both songwriter and lead vocalist. Audiences often anticipated the moment when his unmistakably deep voice entered the song, creating a dramatic contrast with the band’s explosive instrumental style.
Another reason the performance continues to attract discussion is Entwistle’s famous vocal delivery. His low growling voice during key moments of the song has led many listeners to describe it as an early example of a technique that would later become associated with hard rock and heavy metal. Although music historians debate the comparison, fans frequently point to “Boris The Spider” when discussing the evolution of aggressive vocal styles.
The song’s subject matter is surprisingly simple. It tells the story of spotting a spider crawling across a wall before ending with the insect being crushed beneath a book. Yet that simplicity proved to be part of its appeal. Repeated phrases and playful theatricality made it highly effective in concert, allowing audiences to enjoy both the humor and the musicianship.
The performance also highlights the chemistry within The Who. Viewers often notice moments of friendly banter between the band members, reflecting the personality and wit that existed alongside their reputation for high energy rock shows. These interactions add an extra layer of entertainment that extends beyond the music itself.
Perhaps the greatest legacy of “Boris The Spider” is that it elevated John Entwistle’s profile while demonstrating his creativity as a songwriter and performer. Pete Townshend has even remarked that the track was among Jimi Hendrix’s favorite songs by The Who, an endorsement that continues to intrigue music fans.
Nearly six decades after its release in 1966, “Boris The Spider” remains a remarkable example of how an offhand joke can evolve into a lasting piece of rock history. Its combination of humor, originality, memorable live presentation, and Entwistle’s unmistakable performance ensures that it continues to fascinate longtime fans and new listeners alike.