Roger Daltrey, the lead vocalist of The Who, has publicly addressed the recent dismissal of longtime drummer Zak Starkey, declaring that the decision is not influenced by Starkey’s nearly 30 years with the band. In an interview with The Times, Daltrey emphasized that he and guitarist Pete Townshend remain the core of The Who, labeling other members as “session players.” He expressed that while Starkey’s contributions are valued, the essence of The Who cannot be replicated, especially in light of the late Keith Moon’s legacy.
The tension surrounding Starkey’s departure stems from perceptions of blame related to technical issues during performances. Starkey previously suggested that his dismissal was due to overexerting himself in concerts, which he felt led to Daltrey’s vindictive response. Daltrey countered this by stating that the situation arose from misunderstandings regarding a sound issue and described Starkey’s portrayal of events as distressing and damaging.
In the wake of Starkey’s exit, The Who has brought in drummer Scott Devours, who has worked with Daltrey in his solo efforts. Devours has expressed mixed emotions about stepping into this pivotal role, stating it brings him professional joy while also being overshadowed by the loss of Starkey.
As The Who continues their farewell tour, they reinforce their commitment to honoring their musical heritage, while also adapting to the changes in their lineup. This challenging transition showcases the resilience of the band as they navigate complex emotional dynamics while still captivating their audience.
The evolving story of The Who highlights the complexities involved in long-standing musical partnerships and serves as a reminder of the emotional weight that comes with change in the music industry. Supporters of the band can take heart in their determination to carry on, embracing both new beginnings and the memories of those who have been part of their journey.