The legendary rock band, The Who, has been entertaining audiences for decades with their iconic music and electrifying live performances. But who is currently touring as The Who? This is a question that has been on the minds of many fans, and in this comprehensive guide, we will provide an in-depth answer. We will explore the current lineup of the band, their tour schedule, and what fans can expect from their live shows. So, get ready to rock with The Who as we delve into the world of one of the greatest bands of all time.
The Evolution of the WHO
The Early Years: 1960s-1970s
The WHO, originally known as the Who, was formed in 1964 in Shepherd’s Bush, London. The band consisted of Roger Daltrey on lead vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar and vocals, John Entwistle on bass and vocals, and Keith Moon on drums. The WHO quickly rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with their energetic live performances and innovative rock music.
Some of the key albums during this time period include “My Generation” (1965), “The Who Sell Out” (1967), and “Tommy” (1969). These albums, along with their iconic singles such as “I Can’t Explain,” “Pinball Wizard,” and “Baba O’Riley,” cemented the WHO’s status as one of the most influential rock bands of their era.
The WHO’s live performances during this time were equally legendary. Their concerts were known for their explosive energy, with Daltrey’s powerful vocals, Townshend’s groundbreaking guitar work, Entwistle’s innovative bass playing, and Moon’s dynamic drumming all contributing to a dynamic and unforgettable experience.
The impact of the WHO’s music on the rock and roll scene cannot be overstated. Their influences can be heard in the music of countless artists who followed in their footsteps, and their pioneering use of rock operas and concept albums continues to inspire musicians to this day.
In summary, the WHO’s early years in the 1960s and 1970s were a time of immense creativity and innovation, during which they established themselves as one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time.
The Solo Years: 1980s-2000s
The WHO, one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century, underwent a significant transformation during the solo years of its members. Following the band’s hiatus in 1982, its members pursued individual projects, exploring various musical styles and genres. This period marked a critical juncture in the WHO’s evolution, as its members sought to reinvent themselves and adapt to the changing musical landscape.
During the 1980s, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend released solo albums, experimenting with new sounds and collaborating with other musicians. Daltrey’s “Parting Should Be Painless” (1984) and “Can’t Wait to See the Movie” (1987) showcased his versatility as a vocalist, delving into blues, folk, and pop music. Townshend, on the other hand, continued to explore his signature style, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and even electronic music into his solo work, such as “Empty Glass” (1984) and “White City: A Novel” (1985).
Key concerts during this time included Daltrey’s performance at the Prince’s Trust Rock Gala in 1982 and Townshend’s “Deep End” concert series in 1986, which featured collaborations with various artists and showcased his experimental approach to music.
The impact of the WHO’s music during this period was significant, as their individual pursuits influenced the rock and roll scene. Members of the band inspired a new generation of musicians, and their music continued to resonate with fans worldwide. Although the WHO was not actively touring or recording together during this time, their solo work and collaborations ensured that their legacy remained relevant and enduring.
The Reunion Years: 2000s-Present
The reunion years for The Who began in 2000 when the band decided to come together again after a 16-year hiatus. The decision to reunite was primarily driven by the death of bassist John Entwistle in 2002 and the desire of the remaining members, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, to continue performing their music for their fans.
The band’s reunion tours were highly anticipated and marked a significant moment in the history of rock and roll. Their first tour together in 2000 was called “The Who’s Tommy Orchestral Tour,” and they continued to tour sporadically throughout the 2000s, performing at various music festivals and concert venues around the world.
Some of the key albums and concerts during this time period include their 2006 album, “Endless Wire,” which was their first studio album in 24 years, and their 2019 performance at the Desert Trip Music Festival in California, which was their final performance with the late Keith Moon’s drumming son, Zak Starkey, as their touring drummer.
The impact of The Who’s music on the rock and roll scene during the reunion years cannot be overstated. Their influence on generations of musicians and fans alike has been significant, and their live performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. Despite the challenges and changes the band has faced over the years, their music remains timeless and continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
The Current Lineup of the WHO
The Key Members
Roger Daltrey
Roger Daltrey, born on March 1, 1944, in London, England, is the lead vocalist and guitarist of the WHO. He is known for his powerful voice and energetic stage presence. Throughout the band’s history, Daltrey has been a key figure in their live performances, bringing a sense of dynamism and passion to their shows.
Pete Townshend
Pete Townshend, born on May 19, 1945, in London, England, is the lead guitarist and primary songwriter of the WHO. He is known for his distinctive style, incorporating windmilling and smashing guitars during live performances. Townshend’s contributions to the band’s sound and stage presence have been instrumental in shaping their identity as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.
John Entwistle
John Entwistle, born on October 9, 1945, in London, England, was the band’s original bass guitarist and a key member of their live performances. Known as “The Ox,” Entwistle was a versatile musician who often incorporated classical and jazz elements into the band’s music. His stage presence was characterized by his imposing stature and masterful bass playing, which helped to create the band’s powerful sound.
Keith Moon
Keith Moon, born on August 23, 1946, in London, England, was the band’s original drummer and a key member of their live performances. Known for his explosive energy and creative drumming style, Moon brought a sense of excitement and unpredictability to the band’s shows. His stage presence was legendary, and he remains one of the most iconic drummers in rock history.
The Supporting Members
Simon Townshend, Zak Starkey, Pino Palladino, and John Corey are the current supporting members of the WHO. They have been touring with the band for several years and have become an integral part of the band’s live performances.
Simon Townshend, the younger brother of the late WHO guitarist, Pete Townshend, has been touring with the band since 2012. He has been playing guitar and providing backing vocals, and has been a great asset to the band. His ability to replicate his brother’s guitar work has been impressive, and he has been well received by the fans.
Zak Starkey, the son of the late WHO drummer, Keith Moon, has been touring with the band since 1996. He has been playing drums and providing backing vocals, and has been a great addition to the band. His ability to replicate his father’s drum work has been impressive, and he has been well received by the fans.
Pino Palladino has been touring with the band since 2012, playing bass guitar. He has been a great addition to the band, providing a solid foundation for the band’s music. His ability to play the bass guitar with such precision and skill has been impressive, and he has been well received by the fans.
John Corey has been touring with the band since 2014, playing keyboards and providing backing vocals. He has been a great addition to the band, providing a wide range of sounds and textures to the band’s music. His ability to play the keyboards with such skill and creativity has been impressive, and he has been well received by the fans.
Overall, the current supporting members of the WHO have been touring with the band for several years and have become an integral part of the band’s live performances. They have been well received by the fans, and their contributions to the band’s music have been invaluable.
The WHO’s Tour Schedule
Upcoming Concerts
The Who is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, and their live performances are not to be missed. Here is a comprehensive guide to the band’s upcoming concerts, including dates, locations, ticket prices, and availability, as well as information on opening acts and special guests.
Dates and Locations of Upcoming Concerts
The Who’s upcoming concert schedule is as follows:
- May 7, 2023 – Madrid, Spain – Wizink Center
- May 10, 2023 – Paris, France – AccorHotels Arena
- May 12, 2023 – Hamburg, Germany – Barclays Arena
- May 14, 2023 – Cologne, Germany – Lanxess Arena
- May 16, 2023 – Vienna, Austria – Wiener Stadthalle
- May 18, 2023 – Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion
- May 20, 2023 – Milan, Italy – Mediolanum Forum
- May 22, 2023 – Berlin, Germany – Mercedes-Benz Arena
- May 24, 2023 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
- May 26, 2023 – Antwerp, Belgium – Sportpaleis
- May 28, 2023 – Manchester, UK – AO Arena
- May 30, 2023 – London, UK – The O2 Arena
Ticket Prices and Availability
Ticket prices for The Who’s upcoming concerts vary depending on the location and seating arrangement. Tickets can be purchased through the band’s official website or through ticketing agencies such as Ticketmaster or StubHub. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance as they may sell out quickly.
Opening Acts and Special Guests
The Who’s upcoming concerts will feature a variety of opening acts and special guests, including:
- May 7, 2023 – Madrid, Spain – The Temperance Movement
- May 10, 2023 – Paris, France – Richard Ashcroft
- May 12, 2023 – Hamburg, Germany – The Struts
- May 14, 2023 – Cologne, Germany – The Dead Daisies
- May 16, 2023 – Vienna, Austria – The Hives
- May 18, 2023 – Zurich, Switzerland – The Gaslight Anthem
- May 20, 2023 – Milan, Italy – Peter Wolf
- May 22, 2023 – Berlin, Germany – The Pretenders
- May 24, 2023 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – The Kinks
- May 26, 2023 – Antwerp, Belgium – The Who cover band, The Quads
- May 28, 2023 – Manchester, UK – Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds
- May 30, 2023 – London, UK – Eddie Vedder
This is a comprehensive guide to The Who’s upcoming concerts, including dates, locations, ticket prices, and availability, as well as information on opening acts and special guests. With such an exciting lineup, fans of the band are sure to be thrilled with what’s in store for them on this tour.
Past Concerts
The Who has been one of the most influential and iconic rock bands of all time, and their live performances have been legendary. The band has played countless concerts throughout their career, leaving a lasting impact on fans and music lovers alike. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the past concerts that the Who has played, including the dates and locations, setlists, fan reviews, and notable moments.
Dates and Locations of Past Concerts
The Who has played thousands of concerts throughout their career, spanning over five decades. Some of their most memorable concerts include their performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, where they became a household name, and their historic performance at Woodstock in 1969. The band has also played countless concerts in iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, Wembley Stadium, and the Hollywood Bowl.
Setlists and Fan Reviews
The Who’s setlists have always been highly anticipated by fans, as the band is known for their high-energy and dynamic live performances. Some of their most famous songs include “My Generation,” “Pinball Wizard,” and “Baba O’Riley.” The band has also been known to mix up their setlists, often playing deep cuts and rarities alongside their most popular songs. Fan reviews of the Who’s concerts are always glowing, with many fans citing their energetic performances and stage presence as some of the best they’ve ever seen.
Notable Moments and Memorable Performances
The Who’s live performances are often remembered for their iconic moments and memorable performances. One of the most famous moments came during their performance at the Isle of Wight Festival in 1970, where a massive audience of over 600,000 people attended, making it one of the largest concerts in history. Another notable moment came during their performance at Shea Stadium in 1982, where they became the first rock band to play a concert at the historic venue. Throughout their career, the Who has consistently delivered powerful and unforgettable live performances, solidifying their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
The WHO’s Live Performances
What to Expect from a WHO Concert
If you’re planning to attend a WHO concert, you might be wondering what to expect from the experience. Here are some key aspects of a typical WHO concert that you should keep in mind:
The Band’s Stage Presence and Energy
The WHO is known for their high-energy performances, and their stage presence is a key aspect of their live shows. You can expect the band to put on a dynamic and engaging show, with each member bringing their own unique style and energy to the performance. The band’s frontman, Roger Daltrey, is particularly known for his dynamic stage presence and powerful vocals, which have helped to make the WHO one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history.
The Sound and Lighting Production
Another key aspect of a WHO concert is the band’s sound and lighting production. The WHO has always been known for their innovative use of sound and lighting, and their live shows are no exception. You can expect a state-of-the-art sound and lighting production that enhances the overall experience of the concert. From powerful guitar riffs to soaring vocals, the sound quality at a WHO concert is always top-notch. And the lighting production is designed to create a dynamic and immersive atmosphere, with colorful lights and special effects that add to the overall energy of the show.
The Band’s Interaction with the Audience
Finally, a WHO concert is not just about the music – it’s also about the band’s interaction with the audience. The WHO is known for their engaging and interactive performances, and they always make an effort to connect with their fans. You can expect the band to talk to the audience, tell stories, and engage in banter with the crowd. This helps to create a sense of community and connection between the band and their fans, and it adds to the overall energy and excitement of the concert.
Overall, a WHO concert is a dynamic and immersive experience that combines powerful music, innovative sound and lighting production, and engaging stage presence. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the band’s music, a WHO concert is sure to be an unforgettable experience that leaves you feeling energized and inspired.
Tips for Attending a WHO Concert
Attending a WHO concert is an exciting experience for any rock music fan. To make the most of your concert experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:
When to arrive and where to sit
It’s important to arrive at the concert venue early to secure a good seat. Arrive at least an hour before the show starts to give yourself enough time to find your seat and get settled in. If you have a reserved seat, make sure to check the seat number and location before heading to your seat. If you have general admission tickets, arrive early to get a good spot near the stage.
What to wear and what to bring
The dress code for a WHO concert is casual, so wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can withstand standing for long periods of time. It’s also a good idea to bring a small bag or purse to hold your essentials, such as your phone, wallet, and any medications you may need. If you plan on dancing or moshing, consider wearing protective gear such as a mouthguard or earplugs.
How to meet the band and get autographs
Meeting the band and getting autographs can be a memorable experience, but it requires some planning and patience. Before the concert, check the venue’s policy on meeting the band and getting autographs. Some venues may have designated areas for meet and greets or autograph sessions. If there isn’t a designated area, try to arrive early and wait by the stage door or merchandise booth to catch the band as they come and go. Be respectful and polite to the band and their crew, and don’t be afraid to ask for an autograph or photo.
The Legacy of the WHO
Their Impact on Rock and Roll
The Who, formed in 1964, has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll. Their innovative and energetic live performances, combined with their influential songwriting and instrumentation, have cemented their status as one of the most iconic bands in the history of rock music.
- Influence on Subsequent Generations of Musicians
- The Who’s impact on subsequent generations of musicians is evident in the countless bands and artists who have been influenced by their music and style. Many notable musicians have cited The Who as an influence, including Pete Townshend’s use of his trademark windmill guitar technique, which has been replicated by countless guitarists.
- The band’s raw energy and powerful performances have inspired countless musicians to push the boundaries of live performance, creating a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of artists.
- Influence on the Rock and Roll Genre as a Whole
- The Who’s impact on the rock and roll genre as a whole is significant. Their early use of synthesizers and electronic instruments in rock music helped to shape the sound of the genre, paving the way for future bands to incorporate these elements into their music.
- The band’s innovative use of songwriting techniques, such as the concept album, has also had a lasting impact on the genre, inspiring countless bands to tackle complex themes and narratives in their music.
- Influence on Popular Culture
- The Who’s impact on popular culture is significant, with their music and style becoming a defining element of the 1960s and 1970s. Their influence can be seen in everything from fashion and film to literature and art, cementing their status as one of the most iconic bands of their era.
- The band’s impact on popular culture is a testament to their enduring legacy, as their music continues to inspire and influence new generations of fans and artists.
The WHO’s Place in Music History
- The band’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- The WHO was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, cementing their place in music history as one of the most influential and enduring bands of all time.
- The band’s numerous awards and accolades
- The WHO has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, multiple BRIT Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- The band’s place in music history and their enduring legacy
- The WHO’s impact on music history cannot be overstated. Their innovative approach to rock music and their powerful live performances have inspired countless artists and continue to influence new generations of musicians. The band’s enduring legacy is a testament to their creativity, passion, and resilience, and their music will continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world for many years to come.
FAQs
1. Who is currently touring as the WHO?
The WHO is currently touring with a new lineup that includes Roger Daltrey on lead vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar and vocals, and a backing band consisting of musicians who have played with the band in the past or have been handpicked by Townshend.
2. Is Roger Daltrey still the lead singer of the WHO?
Yes, Roger Daltrey is still the lead singer of the WHO. He has been a member of the band since its inception in 1964 and has been the lead vocalist on many of the band’s classic hits.
3. Is Pete Townshend still involved with the WHO’s live performances?
Yes, Pete Townshend is still involved with the WHO’s live performances. He is the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, and he has been a key figure in the band’s sound and direction since its early days.
4. Are there any other original members of the WHO currently touring?
No, there are no other original members of the WHO currently touring. The band’s current lineup consists of Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, and a backing band of musicians who have played with the band in the past or have been handpicked by Townshend.
5. What kind of songs can I expect to hear at a WHO concert?
At a WHO concert, you can expect to hear many of the band’s classic hits, such as “My Generation,” “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “Who’s Next.” The band also plays a mix of newer and older material, so you may hear some lesser-known songs as well.
6. How long is a typical WHO concert?
A typical WHO concert can last anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the venue and the tour. The band typically plays a mix of classic hits and newer material, and they often incorporate unique stage designs and special effects into their performances.
7. Are there any upcoming WHO concerts that I can attend?
The WHO has a busy touring schedule, and they often announce new concert dates and venues throughout the year. You can check the band’s official website or social media pages for the latest information on upcoming concerts and tour dates.
