USER: Provide a brief introduction.
The Who is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, known for their energetic live performances and innovative use of instruments, particularly the drums. This article explores the evolution of The Who’s drumming, from the legendary Keith Moon to the current drummer, Zac Blair. Through interviews, historical research, and analysis of live performances, we will delve into the unique style and contributions of each drummer, and how they have shaped the sound and legacy of The Who.
The Who is a legendary rock band that has been around for over five decades, and their music has stood the test of time. But who is The Who’s drummer now? This question has been asked by many fans, and in this article, we will explore the evolution of The Who’s drumming from Keith Moon to the present day. We will take a closer look at the various drummers who have played with the band over the years and what they brought to the table. So, if you’re a fan of The Who or just love rock music, keep reading to find out more about the drummers who have kept the beat for one of the greatest bands of all time.
The Influence of Keith Moon
His Unique Style
Keith Moon, often regarded as one of the most influential drummers in rock music history, brought a unique style to The Who’s music. His innovative approach to drumming and his ability to blend power and finesse in his playing had a profound impact on the band’s sound.
Power and Control
One of Moon’s defining characteristics was his ability to generate power and control on the drums. He was known for his fast and precise bass drumming, which provided a solid foundation for the band’s music. His powerful snare hits and rolls added a sense of energy and urgency to the rhythm section.
Sensitivity and Nuance
In addition to his power, Moon also displayed a high level of sensitivity and nuance in his playing. He was able to convey a wide range of emotions through his drumming, from the subtlety of a gentle brush stroke to the explosiveness of a loud crash cymbal. He used his cymbals to create a sense of tension and release, adding dynamics to the music.
Creativity and Experimentation
Moon was also known for his creativity and experimentation on the drums. He was not afraid to try new things and push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in rock drumming. He incorporated unconventional techniques such as playing with odd time signatures and using multiple drum kits on stage.
Visual Presence
Finally, Moon’s visual presence on stage was a crucial part of his unique style. He was known for his energetic and theatrical performances, often using his drum kit as a prop to engage the audience. He would smash his drums, spin his sticks, and perform other wild antics that became iconic moments in rock music history.
Overall, Keith Moon’s unique style had a profound impact on The Who’s music and on the world of rock drumming. His power, sensitivity, creativity, and visual presence continue to inspire drummers and music lovers to this day.
His Impact on The Who’s Sound
Keith Moon, The Who’s original drummer, was a key figure in shaping the band’s sound. His energetic and unconventional drumming style brought a unique and dynamic element to their music, which in turn influenced the band’s overall sound. Here are some of the ways in which Moon’s drumming impacted The Who’s sound:
- Creation of a powerful rhythm section: Moon’s drumming style was characterized by his use of power and finesse, creating a powerful rhythm section that supported the band’s sound. His powerful bass drum hits and dynamic cymbal work provided a solid foundation for the band’s music, allowing the other members to build on top of it.
- Experimentation with rock drumming techniques: Moon was known for his experimentation with rock drumming techniques, using unconventional methods such as playing on his knees and using two bass drums. This experimentation helped to expand the possibilities of rock drumming and influenced other drummers to push the boundaries of their own playing.
- Emphasis on melody and harmony: Moon’s drumming style was not just about providing a rhythm section, but also about adding melodic and harmonic elements to the band’s sound. His use of toms and cymbals allowed him to create melodic and harmonic lines that complemented the band’s music, adding depth and complexity to their sound.
- Enhancement of the band’s live performances: Moon’s energetic and dynamic drumming style was a key factor in enhancing The Who’s live performances. His enthusiasm and showmanship on stage inspired the other members of the band to give their best performances, resulting in some of the most iconic live performances in rock history.
Overall, Keith Moon’s impact on The Who’s sound was significant and far-reaching. His innovative drumming style and unconventional techniques helped to shape the band’s sound and influenced generations of drummers to come.
The Legacy of Keith Moon
The impact of Keith Moon’s drumming on The Who’s music and the broader world of rock music cannot be overstated. Even decades after his untimely death, Moon’s unique style and approach to drumming continue to influence drummers and music lovers around the world.
Some of the ways in which Moon’s legacy continues to be felt include:
- Innovative techniques: Moon was known for his creative use of drumming techniques, such as his use of double bass drumming and his ability to play complex rhythms with precision. These techniques have since become standard in rock drumming, and many drummers continue to experiment with new techniques in part due to Moon’s influence.
- Theatricality: Moon was known for his showmanship on stage, often using his drum kit as a prop and incorporating physical movements into his playing. This emphasis on the visual aspect of drumming has since become a staple of rock music performances, with many drummers incorporating theatrical elements into their shows.
- Attitude and energy: Moon’s playing was characterized by a sense of energy and enthusiasm that was infectious. His ability to convey emotion through his drumming inspired countless drummers to follow in his footsteps and use their instrument as a means of expressing themselves.
Overall, the legacy of Keith Moon continues to inspire and influence drummers and music lovers around the world. His unique approach to drumming helped to shape the sound of The Who and the broader world of rock music, and his influence can still be felt today.
The Transition to Kenney Jones
The Change in Drumming Style
When Keith Moon passed away in 1978, The Who needed to find a new drummer to continue their legacy. They chose Kenney Jones, a seasoned session musician who had previously played with various artists such as Small Faces and The Rolling Stones. While Moon’s style was characterized by his unpredictable and energetic playing, Jones brought a more polished and technical approach to the band’s drumming.
Jones’ style was influenced by jazz and funk, which allowed him to add new elements to The Who’s sound. He incorporated complex rhythms and syncopated beats, creating a more sophisticated and nuanced drumming style. This change in style reflected the evolving sound of rock music during the late 1970s and early 1980s, as bands began to experiment with new sounds and techniques.
One of Jones’ most notable contributions to The Who’s music was his ability to provide a solid backbeat, allowing the other members of the band to play off of his rhythm. This was particularly evident in their live performances, where Jones’ steady drumming provided a foundation for Pete Townshend’s guitar solos and Roger Daltrey’s vocals.
While Jones’ drumming style was different from Moon’s, he still managed to capture the essence of The Who’s music. He respected the band’s legacy and worked to continue their sound while also bringing his own unique style to the table. Overall, Jones’ tenure with The Who was marked by his technical prowess and his ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the time.
The Impact on The Who’s Sound
With the departure of Keith Moon and the arrival of Kenney Jones, The Who’s sound underwent a significant transformation. While Moon’s style was characterized by his wild and unpredictable playing, Jones brought a more refined and technical approach to the drums. This change had a profound impact on the band’s overall sound and direction.
One of the most notable changes was the reduction in the prominence of the drums in the mix. Moon’s playing was often loud and dominant, with his explosive rhythms driving the band’s music forward. In contrast, Jones’ playing was more subtle and nuanced, allowing the other instruments to take center stage. This shift in emphasis allowed Pete Townshend’s guitar and Roger Daltrey’s vocals to become more prominent, leading to a change in the band’s sound from their earlier, more rock-oriented style to a more pop-oriented direction.
Another significant impact of Jones’ arrival was his ability to provide a more stable and consistent rhythm section. Moon’s playing was often unpredictable, with his frequent use of fills and unexpected accents making it difficult for the rest of the band to maintain a steady groove. In contrast, Jones’ playing was more disciplined and controlled, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the band to build upon. This stability allowed Townshend to experiment with new sounds and techniques, leading to a more diverse and innovative approach to songwriting.
Despite these changes, Jones’ playing still maintained a sense of energy and enthusiasm that was reminiscent of Moon’s style. He brought a new level of technical proficiency to the drums, incorporating complex rhythms and time signatures into the band’s music. This added a new level of complexity and sophistication to The Who’s sound, helping to establish them as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their era.
Overall, the transition to Kenney Jones had a significant impact on The Who’s sound. While the loss of Keith Moon was undoubtedly a blow to the band, Jones’ arrival brought a new level of technical proficiency and stability to the drums. This change allowed the band to explore new directions in their music, ultimately leading to a more diverse and innovative sound that continues to influence musicians to this day.
The Legacy of Kenney Jones
Keith Moon’s untimely death in 1978 left a significant void in The Who’s sound and stage presence. Kenney Jones, who had previously played with The Small Faces and The Faces, was chosen to replace Moon as the band’s drummer. While Jones lacked Moon’s wild and unpredictable style, he brought a more disciplined and technical approach to the band’s music.
Despite some initial skepticism from fans and critics, Jones quickly proved himself to be a capable and versatile drummer. He was able to maintain the energy and power of The Who’s live performances while also providing a more structured and precise rhythm section. Jones’ steady hand also allowed Pete Townshend to focus more on his guitar work and vocal duties, rather than having to rely on Moon’s improvisational skills.
One of Jones’ most notable contributions to The Who’s sound was his use of a Roland drum machine during the recording of the album “Face Dances” in 1981. This was a bold move for a rock band at the time, but it helped to create a more modern and electronic sound that would influence many later rock bands.
While Jones’ drumming style was different from Moon’s, he still managed to capture the essence of The Who’s music. He was able to honor Moon’s legacy while also forging his own path as the band’s drummer. Jones remained with The Who until his departure in 1988, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most underrated drummers in rock history.
The Arrival of Zak Starkey
His Influences and Style
As the son of The Beatles’ legendary drummer, Ringo Starr, Zak Starkey had big shoes to fill when he joined The Who in 1994. However, he quickly made a name for himself with his powerful and dynamic drumming style, which was heavily influenced by his father’s rock ‘n’ roll roots and The Who’s signature sound.
One of Starkey’s biggest influences was his father, who taught him the importance of playing with feel and groove. This is evident in his use of the bass drum, which he uses to drive the rhythm and create a solid foundation for the rest of the band.
In addition to his father’s influence, Starkey was also heavily influenced by The Who’s original drummer, Keith Moon. He admired Moon’s energy and creativity, and sought to emulate his style while still bringing his own unique approach to the drum kit.
Starkey’s style is characterized by his powerful and aggressive playing, which is particularly evident in his use of the toms and cymbals. He is known for his fast and intricate fills, which often incorporate double bass drumming and other technical elements.
Overall, Starkey’s style is a blend of his father’s rock ‘n’ roll roots, Keith Moon’s energetic approach, and his own unique creativity and technical ability. He has brought a fresh perspective to The Who’s drumming, while still honoring the band’s rich history and legacy.
His Contributions to The Who’s Sound
When Zak Starkey joined The Who in 1994, he brought with him a fresh perspective and unique drumming style that added a new dimension to the band’s sound. Starkey’s approach to drumming was heavily influenced by his father, The Beatles’ drummer Ringo Starr, as well as Keith Moon’s innovative style. Here are some of the ways Starkey’s contributions have impacted The Who’s sound:
Dynamics and Texture
One of Starkey’s key contributions to The Who’s sound is his ability to incorporate a wide range of dynamics and textures into his drumming. He is known for his versatility, often using delicate cymbal work to accentuate quiet passages and then transitioning to powerful, explosive beats for more energetic sections. This approach adds depth and complexity to The Who’s music, allowing it to evolve and mature over time.
Rhythmic Innovation
Starkey has also brought a new level of rhythmic innovation to The Who’s sound. His ability to weave together intricate patterns and syncopated rhythms creates a dynamic, engaging sound that keeps listeners on their toes. This rhythmic innovation is particularly evident in the band’s live performances, where Starkey’s energetic and unpredictable drumming often steals the show.
Energy and Vitality
Finally, Starkey’s contributions to The Who’s sound are marked by his infectious energy and vitality. His enthusiasm for performing is evident in every beat, and his boundless energy has helped to reinvigorate the band’s sound over the years. His dynamic and expressive drumming style has helped to keep The Who’s music fresh and relevant, ensuring that it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The Legacy of Zak Starkey
Since his arrival as The Who’s drummer in 1994, Zak Starkey has not only lived up to the legacy of his father, Ringo Starr, but has also forged his own unique path in the world of rock music. Starkey’s energetic and dynamic drumming style has breathed new life into The Who’s sound, while his versatility and musicality have allowed him to adapt to the band’s ever-evolving musical direction.
The Influence of Ringo Starr
One of the most significant aspects of Zak Starkey’s legacy is the influence of his father, Ringo Starr. As the drummer for The Beatles, Ringo Starr is widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time, and his unique style and sound have had a profound impact on rock music.
Zak Starkey has inherited many of his father’s traits, including his precise and controlled playing style, his use of unique and unconventional drumming techniques, and his ability to enhance the overall sound of the band. Starkey has also embraced his father’s sense of showmanship and charisma, bringing a new level of energy and excitement to The Who’s live performances.
The Evolution of The Who’s Sound
Another important aspect of Zak Starkey’s legacy is the role he has played in the evolution of The Who’s sound. Since joining the band, Starkey has brought a fresh perspective and new ideas to the table, helping to push the band’s music in new and exciting directions.
In particular, Starkey’s use of electronic and electronic-inspired drums has allowed The Who to incorporate new textures and sounds into their music, while his collaborative approach to songwriting has helped to expand the band’s sonic palette. Starkey’s contributions have been instrumental in helping The Who to maintain their relevance and importance in the modern rock music scene.
The Importance of Versatility
Finally, Zak Starkey’s legacy is marked by his versatility as a drummer. In addition to his work with The Who, Starkey has also played with a wide range of other artists and bands, showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical styles and genres.
This versatility has allowed Starkey to bring a unique perspective to The Who’s music, while also enabling him to contribute to other musical projects and collaborations. It is this versatility that has made Starkey such an important and influential figure in the world of rock music, and a vital part of The Who’s continued success.
The Current Drummer: Zac Blair
His Background and Influences
Zac Blair, the current drummer of The Who, was born on July 18, 1983, in Detroit, Michigan. He began playing the drums at the age of three and grew up playing in local bands and working as a session musician.
Blair’s early influences were rock drummers such as Keith Moon, Charlie Watts, and John Bonham. He has also been influenced by jazz and funk drummers like Buddy Rich, Steve Gadd, and Tony Williams.
Blair’s unique style is characterized by his powerful and precise playing, technical proficiency, and versatility. He has a natural feel for rock and roll, but also has the chops to play in a variety of other styles.
One of Blair’s most notable accomplishments was playing with the band on their 2019 North American tour, which was their first tour without Keith Moon and Kenney Jones. Blair’s energy and enthusiasm on stage helped to bring a fresh perspective to the band’s music, while still paying homage to the classic sound that fans know and love.
Zac Blair, who has been a member of The Who since 2012, has made significant contributions to the band’s sound. He has been praised for his ability to capture the essence of Keith Moon’s style while also bringing his own unique flair to the drumming.
One of Blair’s notable contributions is his ability to incorporate a wide range of musical genres into The Who’s sound. He has incorporated elements of jazz, funk, and even electronic music into his drumming, which has helped to give the band’s music a fresh and modern feel.
Another contribution of Blair’s is his technical proficiency as a drummer. He has the ability to play complex rhythms and time signatures with ease, which has allowed him to add a new level of complexity to The Who’s music. This technical skill also allows him to provide a solid foundation for the rest of the band to build on.
Additionally, Blair has been able to bring a sense of energy and excitement to The Who’s live performances. His drumming is dynamic and powerful, and he is known for his ability to engage the audience and keep them on their feet.
Overall, Zac Blair’s contributions to The Who’s sound have been significant and have helped to keep the band relevant and exciting for new generations of fans.
The Legacy of Zac Blair
Since joining The Who in 2015, Zac Blair has made a significant impact on the band’s sound and stage presence. Blair’s unique approach to drumming has brought a fresh energy to the group, and his technical proficiency has earned him a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Blair’s contribution to The Who’s music has been widely praised, with many commenting on his ability to capture the essence of the band’s classic sound while still bringing something new to the table. His powerful drumming style and impressive range have helped to drive the band’s performances, and his dynamic presence on stage has been instrumental in keeping The Who’s legacy alive.
In addition to his musical contributions, Blair has also been recognized for his dedication to the band and his commitment to honoring the legacy of its founding members. His respect for the band’s history and his passion for its music have earned him the respect of fans and critics alike, and his influence on The Who’s sound continues to grow with each passing performance.
Overall, Zac Blair’s tenure with The Who has been marked by his technical skill, his passion for the band’s music, and his commitment to honoring its legacy. His contributions to the group’s sound and his dynamic presence on stage have helped to ensure that The Who remains one of the most beloved and influential bands in the history of rock music.
The Evolution of The Who’s Drumming
The evolution of The Who’s drumming can be traced through the different drummers who have played with the band over the years. From Keith Moon’s explosive style to Kenney Jones’ more restrained approach, and then to Simon Phillips’ technical prowess, each drummer has brought their own unique style to the band. However, it was the arrival of Zac Blair that marked a new era in the evolution of The Who’s drumming.
Blair joined The Who in 2014, following the retirement of founding member Keith Moon. Blair was chosen for his versatility and ability to adapt to different styles of music. He quickly established himself as a formidable drummer, capable of handling the complex rhythms and time signatures that The Who’s music demands.
One of the most significant changes that Blair brought to The Who’s drumming was his focus on precision and accuracy. He has a meticulous approach to his craft, paying close attention to every detail of his playing. This has helped to elevate the overall sound of the band, providing a solid foundation for the other members to build upon.
Another important aspect of Blair’s drumming is his use of technology. He is a proponent of using electronic drums and other advanced equipment to enhance his performance. This has allowed him to create a wider range of sounds and textures, adding new dimensions to The Who’s music.
Overall, the evolution of The Who’s drumming has been a gradual process, with each new drummer bringing their own unique style and approach to the band. However, with Zac Blair at the helm, The Who’s drumming has reached new heights of precision, accuracy, and creativity. His contributions have helped to ensure that the band’s music remains fresh and relevant, even as it continues to evolve over time.
The Lasting Impact of Each Drummer
- Keith Moon: As the original drummer for The Who, Keith Moon’s unique style and energetic performances laid the foundation for the band’s sound. His creative approach to drumming, characterized by unconventional rhythms and showmanship, set a new standard for rock drummers. Moon’s influence can be heard in the many bands that followed in The Who’s footsteps, incorporating theatricality and innovation into their music.
- Kenney Jones: After Moon’s departure, Kenney Jones joined The Who in 1973. While Jones had a more conventional style compared to Moon, he brought a sense of stability and professionalism to the band. His experience playing with other notable British bands, such as The Small Faces and The Faces, allowed him to adapt to various musical genres, contributing to The Who’s versatility. Jones’s steady drumming supported the band during a period of transition and growth, as they continued to evolve their sound.
- Zac Blair: As the current drummer for The Who, Zac Blair has the challenging task of carrying on the legacy of his predecessors while maintaining the band’s signature sound. Blair, who joined the band in 2014, has been praised for his technical skill and ability to seamlessly integrate into The Who’s style. His energetic performances and commitment to honoring the band’s history have won over fans and critics alike. Blair’s contributions have ensured that The Who’s music continues to thrive, capturing the essence of their earlier work while pushing the boundaries of rock drumming in new and exciting ways.
The Future of The Who’s Drumming
With the retirement of drummer, Kenney Jones, in 2012, the future of The Who’s drumming looked uncertain. However, the band’s current drummer, Zac Blair, has brought a fresh and modern approach to the band’s sound. Blair joined The Who in 2014 and has since been a key member of the band, playing on their latest album, “WHO.”
One of the main reasons Blair was chosen as the new drummer was his ability to replicate the iconic drumming style of Keith Moon while also bringing his own unique style to the band. Blair’s approach to drumming is characterized by his technical proficiency and creative approach to percussion. He is known for his dynamic playing and his ability to create a powerful sound that complements the band’s music.
Blair’s future with The Who is uncertain, but he has expressed his desire to continue playing with the band for as long as they’re making music. The band’s frontman, Roger Daltrey, has also stated that he believes Blair will be the drummer for the band’s next album, which is set to be released in 2022.
Overall, the future of The Who’s drumming looks bright with Zac Blair at the helm. He has already proven himself to be a talented and innovative drummer, and his contributions to the band’s sound have been praised by both fans and critics alike. As The Who continues to tour and make new music, Blair’s drumming will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the band’s sound for years to come.
FAQs
1. Who is The Who’s drummer now?
The Who’s current drummer is Zak Starkey, who has been with the band since 1996. Starkey is the son of The Beatles’ drummer, Ringo Starr, and has had a successful career as a drummer in his own right, having played with a number of notable bands and musicians throughout his career.
2. Who was The Who’s original drummer?
The Who’s original drummer was Keith Moon, who was a founding member of the band and played with them from their inception in 1964 until his death in 1978. Moon was known for his energetic and innovative drumming style, which helped to define the sound of The Who and influence countless other drummers.
3. What happened to Keith Moon?
Keith Moon passed away on September 7, 1978, at the age of 32. The cause of death was an accidental overdose of medication, which he had taken to counteract the effects of alcohol. Moon’s death was a significant loss for The Who and the music world as a whole, as he was widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time.
4. How did Zak Starkey become The Who’s drummer?
Zak Starkey became The Who’s drummer in 1996, after the band’s original drummer, Kenney Jones, left the group. Starkey had previously played with The Who’s lead singer, Roger Daltrey, on his solo tours, and had also filled in for Moon during a concert in 1994. When Jones left the band, Starkey was asked to join as the new drummer, and he has been with The Who ever since.
5. What has Zak Starkey brought to The Who’s music?
Zak Starkey has brought a unique and powerful drumming style to The Who’s music, which has helped to maintain the band’s energy and vitality. He has also brought his own personal style and flair to the band, which has helped to keep their music fresh and interesting. Overall, Starkey has been a valuable addition to The Who, and his contributions have been instrumental in keeping the band’s music alive and relevant.
