Happy Birthday, Roger Daltrey!

The Who frontman Roger Daltrey turned 68 today.  He may be nearing 70, but he still sounds and looks magnificent.  It may be Justin Bieber's "big 18th" today, but I find myself much more inclined to commemorate a man 50 years older.  Roger Daltrey will forever remain an inspiration to me for his outstanding talent.

Unfortunately, I am far too young too have lived through Roger Daltrey and The Who's prime.  That does not mean, however, that I can't fangirl and fawn over the man - both then and now!  Young Roger Daltrey had the hearts of a slew of women and he has mine too.  With a voice that epitomized pure rock, that boyish  grin, and that mane of curly hair, Daltrey drew in the fans.

If you somehow have never heard a song by the Who, do yourself a favor and listen to as much of their music as you can.  Here is an example of this man's insane vocal ability, not to mention a brilliant song. 

The great thing about Roger Daltrey is that he did not fade away over the decades.  Despite necessary throat surgeries in 1978 and 20120, the man's voice will still send shivers down your spine. 

Here's Roger rocking it to the fullest with the Who at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in 2010.  I remember watching this in awe.  Almost 50 years after the band's inception, Daltrey (and Townshend!) have still got it.

The Tommy star may be all grown up, but he is certainly far from washed up.  The musician, actor, and charity supporter  is currently touring Europe taking on the Who's famous rock opera.  He may also tour with Pete Townshend later this year and take on the band's second rock album, Quadrophenia.

Daltrey continues to work hard and I continue to be inspired.  What does he have in store for the future?  His mixture of sheer talent and diligence propel him toward further success as he nears his eighth decade.

So to Roger Daltrey I say rock on, and happy birthday.  Time's got nothing on you.  I will wait in anticipation for you to roll on through New York and hope I can afford to witness your genius live.  Thank you for the music.

Check out Rolling Stone's "WHO is Roger Daltrey?" gallery (see what the did there?) for a look through the musician's long career.  The magazine also included Daltrey in their list of the "100 Greatest Singers Of All Time."