The Who rehire Zak Starkey after bitter split
Sometimes, the soundtrack of a life involves dramatic exits and surprising comebacks. In the world of rock royalty, the ties between musicians can be as complex as the songs they play, and the recent interaction between The Who and one of their most beloved figures, Zak Starkey, offers a fascinating glimpse into that enduring relationship.
Just over a year after an acrimonious split, the legendary frontman Roger Daltrey shared news that The Who had recently rehearsed with their former drummer, Zak Starkey. This seemingly simple update sparked a renewed sense of camaraderie, suggesting that even after turbulent times, the musical connection remains incredibly potent.
Starkey, who played with the band for nearly three decades, later shared that the afternoon rehearsal left the band “absolutely on fire.” He expressed genuine joy, stating, “I’m so happy to be back playing the music I love with people I love. It’s good to be home.”
This reunion follows a complex history marked by tension. Starkey had been the touring drummer for the band for most of his career, but his position was thrown into doubt following recent disputes, including a difficult performance at the Royal Albert Hall. While Starkey maintained that he was “surprised and saddened” by the decision, the fallout was significant, even drawing in family members, with Ringo Starr reportedly voicing his displeasure over the situation.
The path back to collaboration wasn’t immediate or seamless. While subsequent announcements suggested Starkey was still part of the fold, a later farewell tour by The Who led Pete Townshend to confirm that the time had come for a change. This shift eventually saw Starkey stepping away from the band, allowing him to pursue other musical avenues, such as his work with Mantra Of The Cosmos.
Despite the professional changes, the bond remained. Starkey emphasized that he stayed in regular contact with the surviving members, continuing to speak with Roger weekly and texting Pete constantly. When asked about returning, he simply stated, “It’s The Who.”
The narrative of Zak Starkey’s tenure with The Who is a testament to the fact that while professional life can involve dramatic shifts, the deep connection forged through music often endures, proving that some harmonies are simply too beautiful to break.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
