Townshend wants a Who avatar Daltrey rejects
The future of rock legacy might not be found on a stage, but in a pixel. Guitar legend Pete Townshend is intrigued by the possibility of an avatar-based live show for The Who, seeing immersive technology as a potential new lease of life for bands whose touring days are long behind them.
This vision echoes the trend set by other acts, such as ABBA’s Voyage, which proved that digital immersion can revitalize the experience for retired touring groups. For Townshend, the idea is brilliant, yet he acknowledges that achieving this futuristic vision requires navigating some considerable hurdles.
When asked about the feasibility of an avatar performance, Townshend admitted that while the concept would be wonderful, he is not entirely holding out hope that it will materialize. The primary obstacle, he suggests, lies with the band itself. “I think Roger (Daltrey) and I have to be a little teeny bit older first,” he noted, suggesting that the necessary foundation for such a project involves maturation and stability.
Currently, Roger Daltrey is enjoying a solo tour, a time when he is actively engaging with music by collaborating with musicians like Grant Watkins, a violinist, and a pipes player. Townshend admires Daltrey’s willingness to reinvent classic Who songs, celebrating how he has taken the material and injected it with joy and fun.
Despite the fascination with the past, the focus remains on the present. Townshend suggests that Daltrey is currently focused on his own creative path and may not be interested in a gig at massive venues like the Sphere in Las Vegas. This contrast highlights the tension between the nostalgic desire for a grand performance and the current reality of individual artistic pursuits.
The discussion also touched on the sheer scope of modern spectacle. Townshend was highly impressed by venues like the Sphere, calling them “mind fucking” spaces that provoke the question, “What can happen next?” This appreciation underscores a belief that technology opens up limitless creative potential.
Amidst these reflections, the ongoing evolution of The Who remains a vibrant force. Despite the upcoming retirement from touring in 2025, the core members continue to strive for something special. As Townshend reflects on the legacy, he remains hopeful that the spirit of the band will continue to astonish audiences in ways reminiscent of their classic era.
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