The Who is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, with a career spanning over five decades. From their early days as the High Numbers to their legendary performances at Woodstock and beyond, the band has always been known for their energetic live shows and groundbreaking music. But who currently plays drums for The Who? This question has been a topic of much debate and speculation among fans, especially since the departure of original drummer Keith Moon in 1978. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the band’s evolution and explore the story behind the drummers who have played with The Who over the years. Get ready to discover the beat that keeps this legendary band going strong.

The Evolution of The Who’s Drummers

From the Beginning to Keith Moon

The Who’s drumming history began in 1964 when the band was formed by Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon. In the early days, the band used to perform covers of popular songs, and they needed a drummer who could keep up with the fast rhythms. That’s when they found Keith Moon, who became the band’s drummer for the next decade.

Moon was known for his explosive and energetic drumming style, which was a perfect match for The Who’s high-energy performances. He was also known for his showmanship, often performing acrobatics and stunts during live shows. Moon’s drumming style was heavily influenced by jazz and he incorporated a lot of swing and syncopation into his playing.

During his time with The Who, Moon recorded some of the band’s most iconic albums, including “My Generation,” “The Who Sell Out,” and “Tommy.” He also played an important role in shaping the band’s sound and image. Moon’s drumming style was a key component of The Who’s signature sound, which combined rock, pop, and jazz influences.

However, Moon’s life was plagued by drug addiction and mental health issues, which ultimately led to his death in 1978. Despite his personal struggles, Moon’s contributions to The Who’s music and his influence on rock drumming are still felt today. He remains one of the most beloved and influential drummers in rock history.

From John Entwistle’s Decision to Leave to Kenney Jones

John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox,” was a founding member of The Who and played drums for the band from its inception in 1964 until his death in 2002. However, in 1974, Entwistle decided to leave the band due to a variety of reasons, including disagreements with the other members over the direction of the band’s music and his growing dissatisfaction with the business side of the music industry.

After Entwistle’s departure, the band faced a challenge in finding a suitable replacement for such an integral member. They eventually settled on Kenney Jones, a drummer with a solid background in rock and roll. Jones had previously played with the Small Faces and had also worked with Jeff Beck and Ronnie Wood.

Jones joined The Who in 1975, and while he lacked the same level of creative input as Entwistle, he brought a fresh energy to the band that helped to keep them moving forward. His drumming style was more straightforward and less showy than Entwistle’s, but he was able to provide a solid foundation for the band’s music.

One of Jones’s most notable contributions to The Who was his work on the album “Who Are You,” which was released in 1978. This album marked a return to form for the band after a period of decline, and Jones’s steady drumming played a key role in its success.

Overall, the transition from Entwistle to Jones was a difficult one for The Who, but Jones’s solid drumming and commitment to the band helped to ensure its continued success. While he may not have been as integral to the band’s sound as Entwistle had been, Jones played an important role in keeping The Who alive during a difficult period in their career.

From Steve Adams to Simon Phillips

Steve Adams was the original drummer for The Who, playing with the band during their early years in the 1960s. He was replaced by Keith Moon in 1964, who became one of the most famous drummers in rock history. Moon’s unique style and energetic performances were a key part of The Who’s sound, and he remained with the band until his death in 1978.

After Moon’s death, The Who auditioned several drummers before settling on Simon Phillips as their new drummer. Phillips had previously played with the band during their 1979 tour, and his experience and technical skill made him a natural fit for the role. He played with The Who for several years, recording and performing with the band on albums such as “Face Dances” and “It’s Hard.”

Despite his success with The Who, Phillips eventually left the band to pursue other projects, and was replaced by Kenney Jones in 1982. However, Phillips remains an important figure in The Who’s history, and his contributions to the band’s sound and style continue to be celebrated by fans.

The Impact of Keith Moon’s Death on The Who

The Aftermath of Keith Moon’s Passing

Keith Moon’s death on September 7, 1978, marked a significant turning point in The Who’s history. His untimely passing not only left a void in the band but also profoundly impacted their future. In the aftermath of Keith Moon’s passing, The Who had to face numerous challenges, both personal and professional, that would ultimately shape the course of their musical journey.

The Search for a New Drummer

With Keith Moon’s sudden death, The Who was faced with the daunting task of finding a new drummer to fill his shoes. As the band’s driving force, Moon’s unique style and energy were integral to The Who’s sound and stage presence. The band members knew that finding the right person to replace him would be critical to their continued success.

Kenney Jones Joins The Who

After an extensive search, The Who eventually settled on Kenney Jones, a highly skilled and experienced drummer who had previously played with the Small Faces and Faces. Jones’s ability to seamlessly blend with the band’s existing sound made him a natural choice for the role.

Adjusting to Life Without Keith Moon

While Kenney Jones was a talented drummer, he had big shoes to fill. Fans and critics alike were skeptical about how Jones would fit into the band’s dynamic, given the enormous influence Keith Moon had on The Who’s sound and image. Jones’s transition into the band was not without its challenges, as he had to adapt to the band’s existing chemistry and find his place within their musical framework.

The Who’s Evolving Sound and Style

With the incorporation of Kenney Jones as their new drummer, The Who began to explore new sonic territories and evolve their sound. Jones’s style brought a fresh perspective to the band’s music, allowing them to expand their horizons and push the boundaries of their artistic expression. The addition of Jones marked a turning point in The Who’s career, as they began to embrace new sounds and experiment with different musical styles.

Conclusion

The aftermath of Keith Moon’s passing was a difficult period for The Who. The loss of their drummer and driving force left the band with a significant challenge to overcome. However, by incorporating Kenney Jones as their new drummer, The Who was able to continue their musical journey and evolve their sound. Jones’s addition brought a fresh perspective to the band’s music, enabling them to push the boundaries of their artistic expression and explore new sonic territories.

The Challenge of Finding a Replacement

The untimely demise of Keith Moon in 1978 presented The Who with an immense challenge, as they needed to find a drummer who could fill the shoes of the iconic and innovative Moon. The band members knew that they needed someone who could not only play the drums but also contribute to the creative process and maintain the band’s signature sound.

The first person to step in for Moon was former Small Faces and Faces drummer Kenney Jones, who joined the band in 1979. Jones had a solid reputation as a skilled drummer, but he lacked the flamboyant stage presence and the creative input that Moon brought to the band. While Jones was a competent drummer, he struggled to recreate the dynamic chemistry that Moon had with the other band members, particularly with Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend.

In the years that followed, The Who continued to search for a drummer who could embody the spirit of Keith Moon and contribute to the band’s sound. They auditioned several drummers, including Simon Phillips, Barriemore Barlow, and Ginger Baker, but none of them quite fit the bill.

Despite the challenges, The Who persevered and continued to tour and record new music. While they never found a direct replacement for Keith Moon, they managed to adapt and evolve as a band, incorporating new sounds and styles into their music. They also continued to honor Moon’s legacy by celebrating his contributions to the band and the music industry as a whole.

Today, The Who’s current drummer is Zak Starkey, who has been with the band since 1996. Starkey, the son of The Beatles’ drummer Ringo Starr, has a powerful and dynamic playing style that has earned him critical acclaim. While he is not a direct replacement for Keith Moon, he has brought his own unique style and energy to the band, helping to keep their music alive and relevant for new generations of fans.

The Decision to Continue as a Three-Piece Band

Keith Moon’s untimely death in 1978 left The Who with a significant void to fill. The band’s drummer since its inception, Moon was a key component of The Who’s sound and stage presence. The decision to continue as a three-piece band was not an easy one, but it was ultimately made in order to honor Moon’s legacy and continue creating music.

The decision to move forward as a three-piece band was influenced by several factors. Firstly, the remaining members of The Who – Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, and John Entwistle – had a strong bond and a deep history together. They had been through a lot together, both personally and professionally, and they were determined to continue making music together.

Additionally, the band felt that Keith Moon’s spirit was still present in their music, even after his death. They believed that they could continue to channel his energy and creativity through their performances and recordings.

Ultimately, the decision to continue as a three-piece band was a bold one, but it paid off. The Who continued to create some of their most memorable music in the years following Moon’s death, including the albums “Face Dances” and “It’s Hard.” They also continued to tour and perform, solidifying their place as one of the most iconic and influential bands of all time.

The Auditions and Trials for New Drummers

The Criteria for Becoming a Member of The Who

The criteria for becoming a member of The Who are rooted in the band’s original ethos and values. These standards have evolved over time, adapting to the band’s changing sound and style, but remain central to the identity of The Who. To be considered for a position as the drummer for The Who, a musician must possess the following qualities:

• Musical Talent: The candidate must be a skilled and accomplished drummer, capable of executing the intricate rhythms and complex time signatures that define The Who’s sound. They must be able to seamlessly blend with the other band members, contributing to the overall musical cohesion.
• Creative Vision: The ideal candidate should possess a unique and innovative approach to drumming, showcasing their ability to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of rock music. They should be able to bring fresh ideas to the table while respecting the band’s established legacy.
• Stage Presence: As a key member of The Who, the drummer must be a captivating performer, able to connect with the audience and convey the energy and emotion of the music. This requires not only technical skill but also the ability to engage with the audience and create a memorable experience.
• Personal Chemistry: The drummer must be able to collaborate effectively with the other band members, fostering a positive and productive working relationship. This includes being able to communicate effectively, both musically and personally, and contributing to the overall cohesion of the band.
• Authenticity: To truly embody the spirit of The Who, the drummer must possess a genuine passion for the band’s music and be committed to preserving and celebrating its legacy. They must be able to embody the essence of The Who’s identity and bring authenticity to their performances.

By adhering to these criteria, The Who has consistently sought out talented and dedicated drummers who can contribute to the band’s enduring legacy.

The Candidates Who Passed the Auditions

The auditions for new drummers were rigorous and selective, with the band seeking the perfect candidate to fill Keith Moon’s shoes. After several months of searching, The Who finally found their new drummer in the form of a young, talented musician named Kenney Jones.

Kenney Jones was born on June 27, 1948, in London, England. He began playing the drums at the age of 15 and quickly became known for his energetic and dynamic style. Jones had previously played with several local bands before being approached by The Who’s management to audition for the band.

Jones was not the only candidate who passed the auditions. The Who also considered other talented drummers, including Ginger Baker and Mick Avory. However, it was Jones who ultimately impressed the band the most with his unique style and impressive technical skills.

Once Jones was officially announced as the new drummer for The Who, he quickly became an integral part of the band’s sound and style. He brought a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the group, and his drumming helped to elevate their music to new heights.

Overall, the addition of Kenney Jones to The Who marked a significant turning point in the band’s history. With his dynamic style and impressive technical abilities, Jones helped to redefine the role of the drummer in rock music and solidified his place as one of the most talented and influential drummers of his generation.

The Final Decision: Zak Starkey Joins the Band

After a long and arduous search for a new drummer, The Who finally made their decision. They chose none other than Zak Starkey, the son of their late drummer, Keith Moon. This choice was met with both excitement and controversy, as many fans and critics alike were unsure if Zak was up to the task of filling his father’s shoes.

However, The Who were adamant that Zak was the right choice for the band. They had known him for many years and were impressed with his drumming skills and dedication to the craft. Additionally, they believed that Zak’s connection to Keith Moon would bring a unique energy to the band, and help them to continue their legacy in a meaningful way.

Zak Starkey joined The Who in 1994, and has been a key member of the band ever since. He has brought his own style and flair to the drumming, while still paying homage to his father’s legacy. With Zak on board, The Who have continued to tour and release new music, cementing their place as one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history.

Zak Starkey’s Influence on The Who’s Sound

The Blend of Classic and Modern Sounds

One of the most significant aspects of Zak Starkey’s influence on The Who’s sound is the blend of classic and modern sounds that he brings to the band. As the son of The Who’s original drummer, Keith Moon, Zak has a deep understanding and appreciation for the band’s history and legacy. However, he has also embraced modern drumming techniques and styles, which has allowed him to bring a fresh and dynamic sound to the band.

One way that Zak achieves this blend of classic and modern sounds is through his use of vintage drum kits and equipment, while also incorporating modern technology and effects. This approach allows him to pay homage to the band’s past while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible with modern drumming techniques.

Another way that Zak blends classic and modern sounds is through his approach to songwriting and arranging. He has a deep understanding of the band’s catalog and is able to seamlessly blend traditional rock and roll elements with more contemporary sounds and influences. This approach has allowed The Who to continue to evolve and grow as a band, while still staying true to their roots.

Overall, Zak Starkey’s ability to blend classic and modern sounds has been a key factor in The Who’s continued success and relevance. His approach to drumming and songwriting has helped the band to stay fresh and dynamic, while still honoring their rich history and legacy.

The Incorporation of New Elements into The Who’s Music

As the son of The Who’s original drummer, Keith Moon, Zak Starkey has brought his own unique style and influences to the band’s music. One of the most notable aspects of Starkey’s contribution is the incorporation of new elements into The Who’s sound.

Experimentation with New Instruments and Sounds

Starkey has been known to experiment with a wide range of instruments and sounds, incorporating elements of rock, punk, and even electronic music into The Who’s music. This has given the band’s sound a fresh and modern feel, while still staying true to their classic rock roots.

Incorporation of Modern Production Techniques

In addition to experimenting with new instruments and sounds, Starkey has also been instrumental in incorporating modern production techniques into The Who’s music. This has allowed the band to create a more polished and professional sound, while still maintaining their raw and energetic live performances.

The Influence of Punk and Grunge on The Who’s Music

Another notable aspect of Starkey’s influence on The Who’s sound is the incorporation of punk and grunge elements into their music. This has given the band’s music a harder edge and a more contemporary feel, while still maintaining their classic rock sound.

Overall, Zak Starkey’s incorporation of new elements into The Who’s music has helped to keep the band relevant and fresh, while still staying true to their classic rock sound. His experimentation with new instruments and sounds, as well as his incorporation of modern production techniques, have helped to give The Who’s music a modern and contemporary feel, while still maintaining their classic rock roots.

The Legacy of Zak Starkey in The Who’s History

Since joining The Who in 1994, Zak Starkey has left an indelible mark on the band’s sound. His powerful and dynamic drumming style has brought a new level of energy to the group, and his contributions have been integral to the evolution of The Who’s music.

One of the most significant ways in which Zak Starkey has influenced The Who’s sound is through his use of unconventional drumming techniques. His innovative approach to the instrument has allowed him to create unique rhythms and textures that add depth and complexity to the band’s music. For example, in the song “I’m One,” Starkey incorporates a rapid-fire drumbeat that adds a sense of urgency to the track.

In addition to his technical skill, Starkey has also brought a fresh perspective to The Who’s music. As the son of The Who’s original drummer, Keith Moon, he has a deep understanding of the band’s history and has been able to infuse their classic songs with new life. His interpretation of “Baba O’Riley,” for instance, showcases his ability to honor the original vision of the song while also bringing his own unique spin to it.

Overall, Zak Starkey’s influence on The Who’s sound cannot be overstated. His creativity, technical skill, and deep understanding of the band’s history have all contributed to their continued success and relevance in the music world.

The Current Lineup of The Who

Roger Daltrey’s Continued Leadership

Since the band’s inception, Roger Daltrey has been the driving force behind The Who’s energetic live performances and captivating stage presence. As the group’s lead vocalist, he has consistently delivered powerful and emotive renditions of their classic hits, while also bringing a dynamic physicality to the role of frontman. Daltrey’s continued leadership and commanding presence have been instrumental in shaping The Who’s unique sound and identity over the years.

The Role of the Lead Singer in The Who’s Music

Daltrey’s contributions to The Who’s music extend beyond his vocal abilities. As the band’s lead singer, he has been integral in defining the group’s sound and style. His distinctive voice has lent itself to many of the band’s most iconic songs, including “My Generation,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” His ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his singing has been a key factor in The Who’s enduring popularity and influence.

The Visual Aspect of Daltrey’s Performance

In addition to his musical contributions, Daltrey’s on-stage presence has been a crucial element of The Who’s live shows. His energetic and dynamic performance style has made him a compelling and charismatic figure on stage, engaging audiences with his physicality and expressiveness. From jumping into the crowd during early concerts to his more recent use of wireless microphones, Daltrey has consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a frontman, and his visual presence has been a hallmark of The Who’s live performances.

Daltrey’s Impact on The Who’s Evolution

Throughout the band’s history, Daltrey’s leadership and influence have played a significant role in shaping The Who’s sound and identity. His powerful vocals and commanding stage presence have helped to create a unique and unforgettable experience for audiences, and his continued involvement in the band has been instrumental in maintaining The Who’s relevance and impact over the years.

Pete Townshend’s Enduring Guitar Work

The Evolution of Pete Townshend’s Guitar Style

Throughout the years, Pete Townshend’s guitar work has been a defining element of The Who’s sound. From the early days of the band to their more recent performances, Townshend’s unique style has remained consistent. His approach to the guitar has evolved over time, incorporating new techniques and influences while retaining the essence of his original style.

The Influence of Windmills and Power Chords

One of Townshend’s most recognizable traits is his use of windmills, a technique in which he spins his arm in a circular motion while playing the guitar. This move has become synonymous with The Who’s stage presence and has been replicated by countless musicians over the years. In addition to windmills, Townshend is also known for his use of power chords, which have become a staple of rock music.

The Use of Synthesizers and Effects

As technology has advanced, Townshend has incorporated various synthesizers and effects into his guitar work. He has been known to use a variety of pedals and processors to create new sounds and textures, while still maintaining the raw energy that defines The Who’s music.

The Importance of Feedback

Feedback has been a key element of Townshend’s guitar work since the early days of The Who. He is known for his ability to manipulate feedback, using it as an instrument in its own right. By using a variety of techniques, such as picking up the guitar with a paper clip or placing a coin on the strings, Townshend has created some of the most iconic guitar sounds in rock music.

The Impact of Townshend’s Guitar Work on the Music Industry

Townshend’s guitar work has had a significant impact on the music industry. His unique style has influenced countless musicians, and his use of feedback and power chords has become a staple of rock music. His innovative approach to the guitar has helped to shape the sound of popular music, making him one of the most influential guitarists of all time.

John Entwistle’s Memorable Bass Lines

John Entwistle, also known as “The Ox,” was a founding member of The Who and played bass guitar for the band from its inception in 1964 until his death in 2002. He was known for his distinctive and innovative bass playing style, which contributed significantly to the band’s sound and success. Some of Entwistle’s most memorable bass lines include:

• “My Generation”: The opening bass riff of this song is one of the most recognizable in rock music, and it sets the tone for the entire song. The pounding, repetitive pattern creates a sense of urgency and rebellion that perfectly captures the spirit of the youth culture of the time.
• “Baba O’Riley”: This song features a iconic bass line that is played in unison with the drums, creating a powerful and driving rhythm. The line is melodic and catchy, and it helps to establish the song’s distinctive sound and feel.
• “Tommy”: The bass line in the title track of The Who’s rock opera is a highlight of Entwistle’s work with the band. The line is complex and multi-layered, with a variety of different rhythms and melodies that help to create a sense of drama and tension.
• “I Can See for Miles”: This song features a memorable bass line that is played in octaves with the lead guitar. The line is melodic and upbeat, and it helps to establish the song’s sense of optimism and adventure.

Overall, John Entwistle’s bass lines were a key part of The Who’s sound and helped to establish the band as one of the most innovative and influential in rock music. Even though he is no longer with us, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.

Zak Starkey’s Dynamic Drumming

Zak Starkey, the son of legendary drummer Ringo Starr, has been the drummer for The Who since 1996. He brings a unique energy and style to the band, while also paying homage to the classic sound created by his father’s predecessor, Keith Moon.

One of the key aspects of Starkey’s drumming is his ability to seamlessly blend classic rock rhythms with modern beats, making him a perfect fit for The Who’s ever-evolving sound. He is known for his powerful and technical approach to drumming, with a particular emphasis on the use of cymbals and high-hat.

Starkey’s style is heavily influenced by Keith Moon’s, and he has spoken about how he strives to emulate Moon’s energetic and dynamic playing. However, he also brings his own unique style to the band, incorporating elements of funk, jazz, and other genres into his drumming.

In addition to his technical skill, Starkey is also known for his stage presence and showmanship. He brings a high level of energy to every performance, interacting with the rest of the band and engaging the audience in a way that is reminiscent of Moon’s iconic style.

Overall, Zak Starkey’s dynamic drumming has been a crucial part of The Who’s continued success and evolution. His ability to pay tribute to the band’s storied past while also pushing the boundaries of rock drumming has made him a beloved member of the band and a respected musician in his own right.

The Future of The Who

The Band’s Plans for Continued Performances

Despite the loss of their beloved band member, The Who has shown no signs of slowing down. In fact, the band has announced plans for continued performances in the coming years. This includes a new tour that will take them across the globe, performing their classic hits and new material alike.

The band has also confirmed that they will be releasing new music in the near future, which will be featured on their upcoming tour. This new material is sure to excite fans of all ages, as it promises to showcase the band’s unique blend of rock, pop, and theatrics.

Additionally, The Who has expressed a desire to continue to be involved in charitable causes, using their platform to raise awareness and funds for important issues. This includes their ongoing support of Teenage Cancer Trust, a charity that works to improve the lives of young people with cancer.

Overall, it is clear that The Who is not planning on retiring anytime soon. Instead, they are looking forward to continuing to create new music, perform for their fans, and make a positive impact on the world.

The Impact of Technology on The Who’s Music

Advancements in Recording Technology

One of the most significant impacts of technology on The Who’s music has been in the realm of recording. The ability to record and edit music with high-quality equipment has allowed the band to create more complex and polished recordings. This has allowed them to experiment with different sounds and arrangements, and to capture their live performances with greater accuracy.

The Use of Electronic Instruments

Another way in which technology has impacted The Who’s music is through the use of electronic instruments. In the early days of the band, they relied primarily on traditional rock instruments like guitars, drums, and bass. However, as technology has advanced, they have incorporated more electronic instruments into their sound, such as synthesizers and samplers. This has allowed them to create new textures and sounds, and to explore different musical styles.

The Impact of Digital Distribution

Finally, the rise of digital distribution has had a significant impact on The Who’s music. With the advent of streaming services and online music stores, their music is now more accessible than ever before. This has allowed them to reach a wider audience, and to continue to build their legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.

Overall, technology has had a profound impact on The Who’s music, allowing them to experiment with new sounds and techniques, and to reach a wider audience than ever before. As they continue to evolve and adapt to changing technology, it will be interesting to see how their music continues to evolve and influence future generations of musicians.

The Enduring Legacy of The Who in the World of Rock

• The Impact of The Who on the Music Industry
  • The Who’s music has had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing countless artists across multiple genres.
  • Their unique blend of rock, pop, and theatricality has inspired generations of musicians and continues to be celebrated today.
• The Band’s Influence on Popular Culture
  • The Who’s music, style, and attitude have left an indelible mark on popular culture, shaping the way that people think about rock music and the role of musicians in society.
  • Their iconic songs and memorable performances have become part of the cultural fabric, continuing to inspire and influence new generations of fans.
• The Legacy of Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey
  • The creative partnership between Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey has been central to The Who’s success, with their respective talents complementing each other perfectly.
  • Townshend’s songwriting and guitar playing, combined with Daltrey’s powerful vocals and stage presence, have made The Who one of the most enduring and influential bands in rock history.
• The Band’s Evolution and Adaptability
  • Throughout their career, The Who has shown a remarkable ability to evolve and adapt to changing musical trends and cultural shifts.
  • From their early days as a scrappy rock band to their later incarnation as a more introspective and experimental group, The Who has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in rock music.
• The Band’s Future Plans
  • Despite the challenges posed by the departure of Keith Moon and John Entwistle, The Who continues to forge ahead, with Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey remaining at the helm.
  • While the future of the band is uncertain, their enduring legacy and the ongoing popularity of their music suggest that they will continue to be a major force in the world of rock music for years to come.

The Influence of The Who on Later Generations of Musicians

The Who, as one of the most influential bands of the 20th century, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Their impact can be seen in the work of countless musicians who have come after them, and their influence continues to be felt in the present day.

The Who’s Influence on Punk Rock

One of the most notable ways in which The Who influenced later generations of musicians was through their role in the development of punk rock. Bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols cited The Who as a major influence, and their raw, energetic sound can be heard in the music of many punk rock bands.

The Who’s Influence on Classic Rock

The Who also had a significant impact on the development of classic rock. Bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and Queen all cited The Who as an influence, and their music can be heard in the work of many classic rock bands.

The Who’s Influence on Alternative Rock

The Who’s influence can also be seen in the development of alternative rock. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Radiohead have all cited The Who as an influence, and their music can be heard in the work of many alternative rock bands.

The Who’s Influence on Modern Rock

The Who’s influence extends to modern rock as well. Many contemporary rock bands, such as Green Day, Foo Fighters, and The Strokes, have cited The Who as an influence, and their music can be heard in the work of many modern rock bands.

In conclusion, The Who’s influence on later generations of musicians is undeniable. Their music has inspired countless bands and artists, and their impact can be heard in the work of many different genres of music. Their influence will continue to be felt for many years to come, and their legacy as one of the most influential bands of all time will endure.

The Band’s Continued Relevance in Today’s Music Scene

The Who, despite being around for over five decades, remains a relevant and influential band in today’s music scene. The band’s continued relevance can be attributed to several factors, including their innovative music, dynamic live performances, and enduring lyrics.

One of the primary reasons for The Who’s continued relevance is their pioneering approach to rock music. The band’s use of synthesizers, guitar feedback, and explosive live shows set the stage for the development of rock music as an art form. Their music continues to inspire and influence contemporary rock bands, and their impact on the genre can still be felt today.

Another reason for The Who’s continued relevance is their dynamic live performances. The band’s energetic and explosive shows have been a staple of their career, and they continue to deliver powerful performances that captivate audiences of all ages. The band’s use of visual effects, lighting, and pyrotechnics during their live shows has become iconic and sets them apart from other bands.

Finally, The Who’s enduring lyrics have resonated with audiences for decades. The band’s songs tackle universal themes such as love, loss, and identity, and their lyrics continue to be relevant today. The band’s ability to write anthemic songs that capture the mood of a generation has made them one of the most beloved bands of all time.

In conclusion, The Who’s continued relevance in today’s music scene can be attributed to their pioneering approach to rock music, dynamic live performances, and enduring lyrics. The band’s impact on the genre is immeasurable, and their influence can still be felt today. As The Who continues to evolve and create new music, their place in the music world remains secure.

FAQs

1. Who currently plays drums for The Who?

The current drummer for The Who is Zak Starkey. He has been playing with the band since 1996, following in the footsteps of his father, Ringo Starr, who was a member of The Beatles.

2. How did Zak Starkey become the drummer for The Who?

Zak Starkey became the drummer for The Who after the band’s original drummer, Keith Moon, passed away in 1978. After a series of temporary drummers, the band eventually settled on Starkey as their permanent drummer.

3. What has Zak Starkey brought to The Who’s music?

Zak Starkey has brought a fresh energy and enthusiasm to The Who’s music. He has also incorporated some of his own style and influences into the band’s sound, while still respecting and honoring the original vision of the band’s founding members.

4. How has The Who evolved over the years?

The Who has evolved significantly over the years, both in terms of their sound and their lineup. The band’s original members, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, have remained constant, but the addition of Zak Starkey and other musicians has allowed the band to continue to experiment and grow as artists.

5. Will The Who continue to tour and perform in the future?

The Who has no plans to stop touring or performing in the future. The band continues to be popular with audiences around the world, and they remain committed to creating new music and performing live for their fans.