Zak Starkey, the son of legendary drummer Keith Moon and a highly skilled musician in his own right, has been a member of The Who for over three decades. But is he still with the band? This question has been on the minds of many fans, and in this article, we’ll explore the current status of Zak Starkey’s involvement with The Who.
Zak Starkey’s Background with The Who
The Who’s history and Zak’s connection
The Who is a British rock band that formed in 1964, consisting of lead vocalist Roger Daltrey, guitarist Pete Townshend, bassist John Entwistle, and drummer Keith Moon. The band is known for their influential music and energetic live performances, which helped to define the punk rock and post-punk movements of the 1970s.
Zak Starkey, the son of The Who’s drummer Keith Moon, has had a long-standing connection with the band. He first started playing drums with The Who in 1986, when he was just 16 years old, filling in for an injured Moon. Over the years, he has played with the band on various occasions, both in the studio and during live performances.
Despite his familial connection to the band, Starkey has earned his place in The Who’s history through his talent and dedication to music. He has become a respected member of the band, and his contributions have been recognized by both fans and critics alike.
How Zak became a part of The Who
Zak Starkey, the son of legendary drummer Keith Moon, first joined The Who as a touring member in 1994. However, his involvement with the band dates back to the early 1980s when he was first introduced to Pete Townshend by his father.
Townshend, who was impressed by Zak’s drumming skills, offered him a spot as a backing drummer for The Who’s 1982 tour. Although Zak was only 21 years old at the time, he was eager to learn from the experienced musicians in the band.
Despite his enthusiasm, Zak declined the offer, opting instead to focus on his own music career. However, Townshend remained impressed by Zak’s talent and kept him in mind for future opportunities.
Fast forward to 1994, when The Who was in need of a new drummer after the departure of Kenney Jones. Townshend reached out to Zak once again, and this time, he accepted the offer to join the band as a touring member.
Zak’s unique style and energetic performances quickly made him a fan favorite, and he became an integral part of The Who’s live shows. Despite being a relatively new member of the band, Zak’s connection to The Who’s history through his father’s legacy made him a natural fit.
In 1996, when founding member John Entwistle passed away, Zak became a permanent member of The Who, cementing his role as the band’s drummer. Over the years, he has continued to tour and record with the band, carrying on their legacy while adding his own unique style to their music.
Recent Developments and Speculations
Reports of Zak’s departure from The Who
Reports of Zak Starkey’s departure from The Who have been circulating in recent months, sparking speculation about the future of the band. While no official statement has been made by either Zak or the other members of The Who, sources close to the band suggest that tensions have been running high, particularly over issues related to the direction of the band’s music and the demands of touring.
According to some reports, Zak has expressed frustration with the limitations imposed by touring and the demands of performing as a member of a legendary rock band. He has reportedly expressed a desire to pursue other musical projects and to explore new creative avenues, leading some to speculate that he may be leaving the band.
However, other sources suggest that Zak may be negotiating a new contract with The Who that would allow him more creative control and flexibility. Some insiders believe that Zak may be looking to redefine his role within the band, seeking to shift the focus from touring and performing to more experimental and collaborative projects.
Regardless of the specifics, the reports of Zak’s potential departure have sent shockwaves through the music industry and left fans of The Who wondering about the future of the band. Only time will tell whether Zak will remain with The Who or whether he will strike out on his own, but one thing is certain: the music world will be watching closely to see what happens next.
Unconfirmed rumors of new projects
- Zak Starkey, the current drummer for The Who, has been at the center of unconfirmed rumors about new projects.
- Some sources suggest that Starkey may be working on new material with the band, although this has not been officially confirmed.
- Fans of The Who have been eagerly anticipating new music from the band, and Starkey’s involvement has only added to the excitement.
- While there is no concrete evidence to support these rumors, they continue to circulate among fans and music industry insiders alike.
- Only time will tell whether these unconfirmed rumors prove to be true, but one thing is certain: Zak Starkey’s involvement with The Who remains a subject of fascination and speculation for many.
The future of Zak Starkey with The Who
With the recent developments and speculations surrounding the future of The Who, fans and critics alike have been eager to know whether Zak Starkey will continue to be a part of the band. While there has been no official announcement regarding his status, here are some possible scenarios that could play out:
- Continuation of his role as drummer: Zak Starkey has been a part of The Who’s touring band since 1994, and he has become an integral part of the band’s sound and identity. Given his experience and expertise, it is likely that he will continue to play a key role in the band’s future performances.
- Potential retirement: With Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend both in their 70s, there has been speculation that they may retire from touring in the near future. If this were to happen, it is possible that Zak Starkey may choose to retire from The Who as well, particularly if he feels that the band’s sound and identity are no longer viable without its founding members.
- New projects and collaborations: Even if Zak Starkey were to retire from The Who, he is still a highly sought-after drummer with a long history of collaborations and side projects. It is possible that he may choose to pursue new musical endeavors or collaborate with other artists in the future.
Ultimately, the future of Zak Starkey with The Who remains uncertain, and it is up to the band’s members to decide what direction they will take. Regardless of what happens, however, Zak Starkey’s contributions to The Who’s sound and legacy will always be remembered and appreciated by fans around the world.
The Who’s Recent Activities
Recent tours and performances
Since Zak Starkey joined The Who as their touring drummer in 1996, the band has continued to perform regularly around the world. In recent years, The Who has embarked on several extensive tours, showcasing their classic hits and new material.
One notable tour was the “The Who Hits 50!” tour in 2014, which celebrated the band’s 50th anniversary. This tour spanned across North America, Europe, and the UK, and featured a setlist that highlighted some of The Who’s most popular songs from throughout their career.
In addition to their traditional concerts, The Who has also performed at several high-profile events, including the Glastonbury Festival in 2015 and the Desert Trip festival in 2016. These performances have allowed the band to reach new audiences and showcase their timeless music to fans of all ages.
More recently, The Who embarked on a tour in 2019 to celebrate their album “Who,” which was released in 2019. This tour featured performances of songs from the new album, as well as classic hits like “My Generation” and “Pinball Wizard.”
Overall, The Who’s recent tours and performances have been met with critical acclaim and have continued to cement their status as one of the most influential and enduring bands in rock music history.
The Who’s current lineup
Since the passing of original drummer Keith Moon in 1978 and bassist John Entwistle in 2002, The Who has continued to perform and record with a revolving cast of musicians. However, there have been a few key members who have consistently played with the band over the years. Here is a look at The Who’s current lineup:
- Roger Daltrey: As one of the two remaining original members, Roger Daltrey has been the band’s lead vocalist since its inception in 1964. Despite some health issues in recent years, he continues to tour and perform with The Who.
- Pete Townshend: Also an original member, Pete Townshend is the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter. He has been instrumental in keeping The Who alive and continues to write new music for the band.
- Simon Townshend: Pete’s younger brother, Simon, has been a touring member of The Who since 1994. He plays guitar and contributes backing vocals, as well as occasionally taking on lead vocals for a few songs.
- Zak Starkey: The son of the late Keith Moon, Zak has been The Who’s drummer since 1996. He has been praised by both Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend for his ability to capture the spirit of Keith Moon’s playing while also bringing his own style to the band.
Overall, The Who’s current lineup is a mix of original members and talented musicians who have been with the band for many years. While they may not be able to tour as extensively as they once did, they continue to put on dynamic and memorable performances whenever they take the stage.
How Zak’s absence (if any) could impact the band’s future
The absence of Zak Starkey from The Who’s recent activities has sparked speculation about the potential impact on the band’s future. As one of the most prominent drummers in rock music, Zak’s contribution to The Who’s sound and energy is undeniable. His absence could potentially lead to a decline in the band’s performance and overall appeal to audiences.
Without Zak, The Who may struggle to replicate the dynamic energy that he brings to their live shows. His powerful drumming style and creative flair have been an integral part of the band’s sound for many years. Without this vital element, the band’s performance may suffer, and they may struggle to engage their audience in the same way.
Additionally, Zak’s absence could also impact the band’s creative process. As a key member of the band, he has contributed to the development of their music over the years. Without his input, The Who may struggle to create new and innovative material that resonates with their fans.
However, it’s worth noting that The Who has a long history of adapting to changes in their lineup. They have continued to perform and create music despite the loss of key members in the past, and they may be able to do so again in the future. It’s also possible that they may find a new drummer to fill the void left by Zak, should he choose to leave the band.
In conclusion, Zak’s absence from The Who’s recent activities could have a significant impact on the band’s future. Without his dynamic drumming and creative input, the band may struggle to maintain their performance and creative prowess. However, The Who has a history of adapting to changes, and they may be able to continue on without Zak if necessary.
Zak Starkey’s Other Projects and Collaborations
Other bands and projects Zak has been involved in
In addition to his work with The Who, Zak Starkey has been involved in a variety of other musical projects and collaborations. Here are some examples:
The Who tribute band: “Who’s Next”
Zak Starkey was a member of the tribute band “Who’s Next,” which was formed in 2002. The band was made up of various musicians who paid tribute to The Who by performing their songs live. Although the band was not an official The Who project, it provided a platform for Zak to showcase his skills as a drummer and perform some of his favorite songs from the band’s catalog.
Collaboration with Johnny Marr
Zak Starkey has also collaborated with former Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr on several projects. In 2011, the two musicians formed a band called “The Heavy Knights,” which performed a mix of rock and electronic music. The band released an album in 2012 titled “Playland,” which received positive reviews from critics.
Session work for other artists
Zak Starkey has also worked as a session musician for other artists, providing drumming for various recordings and live performances. Some of the artists he has worked with include Oasis, Paul Weller, and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Overall, Zak Starkey’s involvement in these other projects and collaborations demonstrates his versatility as a musician and his dedication to the art of drumming. While his work with The Who remains his most high-profile project, these other ventures have allowed him to explore new musical territories and collaborate with other talented musicians.
Potential conflicts with The Who’s schedule
One of the key factors that could potentially impact Zak Starkey’s involvement with The Who is the scheduling of other projects and collaborations. As a highly sought-after drummer, Starkey has had a number of opportunities to work with other artists and bands over the years, which can sometimes conflict with The Who’s touring schedule.
For example, in 2018, Starkey was set to join forces with the band Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds for a tour of the UK and Europe. However, this tour was scheduled to overlap with The Who’s own tour, which meant that Starkey had to choose between the two commitments. Ultimately, he decided to prioritize his work with The Who and cancelled his appearance with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Similarly, in 2019, Starkey was reportedly in talks to join the reformed supergroup The Who Hits 50, which would have included surviving members of The Who, as well as other notable musicians. However, scheduling conflicts once again arose, and the project was ultimately scrapped.
These kinds of conflicts can be a challenge for any member of a band, but they can be particularly tricky for a drummer like Starkey, who is in high demand and has a number of commitments outside of The Who. It remains to be seen how these kinds of conflicts will impact his future involvement with the band.
How these projects may affect Zak’s involvement with The Who
As Zak Starkey continues to explore various musical projects and collaborations, his involvement with The Who may be affected in several ways. One potential impact is a reduction in the number of shows and tours he participates in with the band. This could be due to conflicting schedules or priorities, as Zak may choose to focus on his other endeavors over his commitment to The Who. Additionally, the time and energy required for these projects could limit his availability for band activities, leading to a more limited role within the group. Furthermore, if Zak’s other projects become particularly successful or demanding, it could create tension within the band, potentially leading to a shift in his role or even his departure from The Who. However, it is also possible that these additional experiences may enhance Zak’s contributions to The Who, as he could bring new ideas and influences to the band. Overall, the impact of Zak’s other projects on his involvement with The Who remains to be seen, but it is clear that they will play a significant role in shaping his future with the band.
Fans’ Reactions and Expectations
Social media buzz and fan opinions
With the recent announcement of The Who’s upcoming tour, fans have taken to social media to express their excitement and speculate about the potential involvement of Zak Starkey. While some fans are hopeful that Starkey will join the band on stage, others remain skeptical about his participation.
- Positive reactions: Many fans have expressed their enthusiasm for the possibility of Starkey performing with The Who. Some have shared their memories of past performances where Starkey has impressed them with his drumming skills. Fans have also commented on the chemistry between Starkey and the band members, stating that he seamlessly fits in with their style.
- Speculation and doubts: Despite the positive reactions, some fans remain unsure about Starkey’s involvement in the upcoming tour. Some have pointed out that he has not been featured in any of the promotional materials or announcements. Others have speculated that he may only perform at select shows or have a limited role in the tour.
- Memories of Keith Moon: It’s worth noting that some fans express their disappointment when comparing Starkey’s drumming to that of the late Keith Moon, who was also Starkey’s father. While some appreciate Starkey’s unique style, others feel that he doesn’t quite live up to the legacy of his father.
- Anxiety about the future: With the ongoing pandemic and its impact on live events, some fans have expressed concern about the upcoming tour. Some have wondered if the band will be able to perform without any disruptions, while others have expressed hope that they will be able to adapt to changing circumstances.
Overall, while fans remain hopeful that Zak Starkey will be involved in The Who’s upcoming tour, there is still some uncertainty and speculation surrounding his role.
Anticipation for new music or performances
Since Zak Starkey joined The Who as the drummer, fans have been eagerly anticipating new music or performances from the band. There is a growing expectation that Starkey’s involvement will bring a fresh energy and creativity to the band’s sound, while still maintaining the classic elements that have made The Who one of the most beloved rock bands of all time.
Many fans have expressed their excitement about the potential for new music from The Who, with some even speculating that Starkey’s influence may lead to a new album or tour. There is a sense of anticipation and excitement surrounding the band’s future, as fans look forward to seeing what the new lineup will bring.
Some fans have also commented on the unique chemistry between Starkey and the other members of the band, particularly Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey. They have noted that Starkey’s style and energy seem to complement the other members’ playing, which has raised expectations for what the band will accomplish in the future.
Overall, there is a sense of optimism and excitement among fans about the current status of Zak Starkey’s involvement with The Who. Many are hopeful that the band will continue to create new music and perform live, and that Starkey’s presence will help to reinvigorate their sound for a new generation of fans.
The impact of Zak’s presence or absence on the band’s fanbase
Zak Starkey’s role as The Who’s touring drummer has a significant impact on the band’s fanbase. The following points illustrate the ways in which his presence or absence affects the fans:
- Increased Anticipation: The fans are eagerly waiting for Zak’s return to the band. They anticipate the energy and enthusiasm he brings to the stage, and his drumming style is considered a vital element of The Who’s sound. The fans feel that Zak’s presence elevates the overall performance and makes it more engaging.
- Disappointment and Disappointment: When Zak is not part of the tour, the fans feel a sense of disappointment. His absence is often perceived as a loss to the band’s energy and creativity. Fans who have grown accustomed to Zak’s style and presence may feel that the band’s performances lack something without him.
- Appreciation for Zak’s Talent: Many fans appreciate Zak’s talent and acknowledge his contribution to The Who’s sound. They consider him a valuable asset to the band and believe that his skills add depth and dimension to the group’s music. Fans have expressed their admiration for Zak’s versatility and his ability to play a wide range of musical styles.
- Expectations for Future Involvement: The fans have high expectations for Zak’s future involvement with The Who. They believe that he will continue to be an integral part of the band and that his presence will enhance the group’s sound and performance. The fans are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Zak and The Who.
In conclusion, Zak Starkey’s presence or absence has a significant impact on The Who’s fanbase. His unique style and energy are highly appreciated by the fans, and they have high expectations for his future involvement with the band.
The Who’s Plans for the Future
Official statements and announcements
In recent years, The Who has made several official statements and announcements regarding their plans for the future. These statements have provided insight into the band’s intentions and have been a source of excitement for fans worldwide.
One of the most significant announcements made by The Who was their decision to embark on a new tour, which began in 2019. This tour, known as the “Moving On!” tour, was billed as the band’s farewell tour, and it was intended to be their last major tour. However, despite this announcement, there has been no official confirmation that Zak Starkey will be joining the band on this tour.
In addition to the “Moving On!” tour, The Who has also announced plans to release new music in the near future. While no official release date has been set, the band has confirmed that they are working on new material and are excited to share it with their fans. Again, there has been no official confirmation regarding Zak Starkey’s involvement in these upcoming releases.
Despite the lack of official confirmation regarding Zak Starkey’s involvement in The Who’s future plans, fans remain hopeful that he will continue to play a significant role in the band’s legacy. Only time will tell what the future holds for The Who and their drummer, Zak Starkey.
Possible new albums or tours
It is not yet clear what the future holds for The Who in terms of new albums or tours. However, in a recent interview, Pete Townshend expressed his desire to continue making music with Roger Daltrey and even mentioned the possibility of a new album. He stated that he has been working on new material and that the process has been “very rewarding.”
Additionally, The Who has announced a few upcoming concerts, including a performance at the Desert Trip festival in California in October 2019. While it is not yet known whether Zak Starkey will be involved in these upcoming performances, it is clear that The Who is still an active and influential band in the music industry.
It is also worth noting that the band has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career. They continue to be celebrated for their contributions to rock music and their impact on popular culture.
The potential for new members or collaborations
The Who, led by the iconic duo Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey, have continued to perform and produce new music despite the passing of original drummer Keith Moon and the departure of bassist John Entwistle. The band has embraced change in their lineup, inviting various musicians to join them on stage and in the studio. With Zak Starkey, the son of late drummer Keith Moon, taking over as the band’s drummer in 1996, The Who has continued to evolve while staying true to their signature sound.
One of the key factors in The Who’s enduring success has been their willingness to collaborate with other artists. In recent years, they have teamed up with some of the most talented musicians in the industry, creating new and exciting sounds that have kept their music fresh and relevant. For example, in 2019, The Who released a new album called “WHO,” which featured collaborations with artists such as Brendan Benson, Billy Squier, and Carla Azar.
Moreover, The Who has shown a keen interest in working with younger musicians, passing on their knowledge and experience to the next generation. They have been involved in mentoring programs and have performed with various young bands, providing them with invaluable exposure and guidance. This commitment to nurturing new talent is a testament to The Who’s dedication to the music industry and their desire to keep the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll alive.
As The Who continues to move forward, the potential for new members or collaborations remains an exciting prospect. The band has shown that they are open to embracing new talent and incorporating different musical styles into their work. With Zak Starkey at the helm, The Who’s future looks bright, and fans can expect more innovative and collaborative projects in the years to come.
Recap of the current status of Zak Starkey’s involvement with The Who
At present, Zak Starkey remains an integral part of The Who’s live performances. He has been the band’s drummer since 1996, following the retirement of their original drummer, Keith Moon. Starkey’s contribution to the band’s sound has been widely praised, and he has helped to keep the spirit of The Who alive, performing some of their most iconic songs such as “My Generation,” “Pinball Wizard,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”
In addition to his work with The Who, Starkey has also maintained a successful career as a session musician and has collaborated with a range of other artists, including Oasis, Paul McCartney, and The Rolling Stones. However, he remains most famous for his work with The Who, and his contributions to the band’s sound and legacy continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, The Who have remained active and have continued to tour, with Starkey at the helm. In recent years, the band has also announced plans for a new album, which would mark their first studio release in over a decade. While details about the album remain scarce, The Who have confirmed that they are working on new material and have hinted that it may be released in the near future.
Overall, it is clear that Zak Starkey remains a vital part of The Who’s continued success, and his contributions to the band’s sound and legacy continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. With the band’s plans for the future uncertain but promising, it seems likely that Starkey will remain an important part of The Who’s ongoing story for years to come.
Final thoughts and expectations for the band’s future
The Who, despite their age, continue to be a prominent force in the music industry. They have a loyal fan base that has stayed with them through thick and thin. With Zak Starkey’s involvement, the band has a renewed energy and a fresh perspective. The future of The Who looks bright, and here are some final thoughts and expectations for the band’s future.
Continued Touring
The Who have announced that they will be touring in the coming years, and this has got fans excited. The band has not released the full schedule yet, but they have hinted that they will be playing in Europe and North America. Fans can expect a mix of old and new songs, as well as some surprises.
New Music
The Who have also hinted that they may release new music in the future. While they have not confirmed this, Roger Daltrey has stated that they have some new songs that they have been working on. If this is true, it will be the first new music from the band in over a decade.
Celebrating 50 Years of Tommy
2021 marks the 50th anniversary of The Who’s iconic album, Tommy. The band has already announced plans to celebrate this milestone, and fans can expect a series of events and concerts throughout the year. It is unclear whether Zak Starkey will be involved in these celebrations, but it is likely that he will be a part of the band’s performances.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
The Who’s legacy is secure, thanks to the band’s continued involvement in the music industry. With Zak Starkey on drums, the band has a fresh perspective and renewed energy. The future of The Who looks bright, and fans can expect to see them performing for years to come.
FAQs
1. Who is Zak Starkey?
Zak Starkey is a British musician and the son of the legendary drummer of The Who, Keith Moon. He has been the drummer for the band since 1994, following in his father’s footsteps.
2. What is The Who?
The Who is a British rock band that was formed in 1964. They are known for their influential music and iconic songs such as “My Generation” and “Pinball Wizard”. The band has had a long and successful career, and Zak Starkey has been a key member since he joined in 1994.
3. Is Zak Starkey still with The Who?
Yes, Zak Starkey is still the drummer for The Who. He has been a member of the band since 1994 and has played on numerous albums and tours. He is considered a key member of the band and continues to tour and perform with them.
4. How has Zak Starkey contributed to The Who’s music?
Zak Starkey has made significant contributions to The Who’s music since he joined the band in 1994. He has brought his own style and energy to the band, and his drumming has been a key element of their sound. He has also helped to keep the band’s legacy alive by performing classic songs and new material.
5. What is the future of The Who with Zak Starkey as the drummer?
The future of The Who with Zak Starkey as the drummer looks bright. The band continues to tour and perform, and they have announced plans to release new music in the near future. Zak Starkey is a key member of the band, and his contributions will likely continue to be an important part of The Who’s sound and legacy.
