Pete Townshend made an official announcement on The Who’s website. He confirmed that Zak Starkey will remain as The Who’s drummer, clarifying the recent confusion about his departure.
“News flesh! Who Back Zak! He’s not being asked to step down from The Who,” Townshend stated. “There have been some communication issues, personal and private on all sides, that needed to be dealt with, and these have been aired happily.”
“Roger and I would like Zak to tighten up his latest evolved drumming style to accommodate our non-orchestral line-up,” he continued. “He has readily agreed. I take responsibility for some of the confusion. Our TCT shows at the Royal Albert Hall were a little tricky for me.”
“Maybe we didn’t put enough time into sound checks, giving us problems on stage,” Townshend explained. “Zak made a few mistakes and he has apologised. Albeit with a rubber duck drummer.”
“We are a family, this blew up very quickly and got too much oxygen. It’s over. We move forward now with optimism and fire in our bellies,” he added. Townshend then addressed the rumors about Scott Devours: “I owe Scott an apology for not crushing that rumour before it spread. He has been hurt by this. I promise to buy him a very long drink and give him a hug.”
Recent reports had suggested Starkey’s firing from the band. This announcement provides clear clarification of the situation.
The recent controversy emerged amid several challenges for both the band and Starkey.
Modern Drummer highlighted Starkey’s extensive history with the band. His journey began with the 1996 Quadrophenia tour, marking almost three decades of collaboration with the legendary rock group.
Ultimate Classic Rock revealed Starkey’s recent health battle. He overcame serious blood clots in his right calf. The condition temporarily affected his performance schedule but left no lasting impact on his drumming abilities.
A profile in Vinyl Me Please explored Starkey’s unique connection to The Who. He carries a distinctive musical heritage as Ringo Starr’s son and Keith Moon’s godson. Moon served as The Who’s original drummer.
Recent shows brought criticism of Starkey’s playing style. He faced formal charges of overplaying. These issues contributed to temporary uncertainty about his position in the band.
