Written and sung by Pete Townshend, the song has since become a fan favorite.
Pete Townshend said of the song's lyrical inspiration: When I was a nipper I felt that the guitar was all I had.
[3]The song features an acoustic opening followed by the rest of the band (excluding singer Roger Daltrey) joining in.
It made sporadic appearances in the 1981 (only once), 1982 (only the first verse; as an intro to "The Punk and the Godfather") and 1989 tours as well.
The following Who albums and DVDs feature "I'm One": The song is featured in the Freaks and Geeks episode "Dead Dogs and Gym Teachers", in a montage where Bill Haverchuck eats and watches TV after school.