A long-standing musical partnership within one of rock’s most iconic bands appears to have fractured beyond repair. Roger Daltrey, lead vocalist of The Who, has publicly addressed what he describes as “a character assassination” following recent remarks by drummer Zak Starkey: a falling-out that has stunned fans and cast a shadow over the band’s final tour.
The breakdown stems from a performance at the Royal Albert Hall earlier this year, where a severe sound issue disrupted the show. Daltrey claims he was unable to hear himself over what he described as overpowering low-end frequencies from Starkey’s drum mix. He lost his cue, a rare occurrence for the veteran frontman. Starkey has denied responsibility, but the damage appears to have already been done.
In the aftermath, statements were issued, walked back, and contradicted. Starkey was reportedly out of the band, then back in, then out again. Guitarist Pete Townshend tried to quell speculation by calling it merely a “change,” but insiders suggest deeper tensions beneath the surface.
Zak Starkey later alleged he had been asked to sign a resignation letter he did not write: a claim that sparked outrage among some longtime followers. Adding to the drama, Starkey’s father, Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, entered the fray, referring to Daltrey as “that little man.” Daltrey, now 81, said he found the remark disappointing and unnecessary.
In a recent interview, Roger Daltrey clarified his position, noting that The Who has always consisted of just two members: himself and Townshend. “Everyone else is a session player,” he said, referring to Starkey’s three-decade run. “That’s the structure. It’s not personal.” But the tone of his comments suggested otherwise.
The split has divided fans, many of whom credit Starkey’s powerful drumming as integral to The Who’s modern sound. Others sympathise with Daltrey, who continues to tour despite declining hearing and vision. The strain of carrying The Who’s legacy, particularly into what is now billed as its final tour, has clearly taken its toll.
As the band moves forward, the prospect of reconciliation appears slim. No official comment has been issued regarding Starkey’s future involvement, and sources close to the group indicate the door may now be closed.
Rock history is littered with such rifts: some mended, others permanent. For The Who, it seems the latter may be true. But as Daltrey himself remarked, perhaps fittingly: “The Who has always been about pushing forward. We don’t stop.”