Zak Starkey, the renowned drummer and son of Beatles legend Sir Ringo Starr, has officially parted ways with The Who after nearly three decades. The legendary rock band has announced that Starkey is out. Their farewell tour was announced in the same spirit and signals the closing of a cherished chapter that first started on their bride’s 1996 Quadrophenia tour.
Starkey’s exit comes on the heels of what’s been reported as a “standard rock’n’roll falling out.” A spokesperson for Starkey told The Independent that the divide was due to in-band conflict. Reports suggest dissatisfaction from lead singer Roger Daltrey regarding Starkey’s performance at a recent concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
Starkey came dangerously close to dying last fall, suffering a blood clot in his leg. This potentially dangerous condition led him to cancel an upcoming performance with his indie rock band, Mantra of the Cosmos. Medical advice has ruled out further blood-thinner treatment for two weeks and rest is his best defense against more serious complications.
Regardless of how it all went down, Starkey was thankful for his experience with The Who. He shared, “Dedicating the time, after releasing ‘Domino Bones’ with Mantra Of The Cosmos feat Noel Gallagher in May, to take some much-needed family time, and to finish my autobiography, which I’m writing myself. 29 years in any job is a hell of a run, and I congratulate them on that and wish them the best.
Starkey’s trajectory with The Who has arguably made him one of the most desired and admired drummers in the world, adored by fans and musicians alike. As a result, many view him as one of the all-time UK drumming greats. It’s legit, too— he perfected his craft in the crucible of the late Keith Moon. Sadly for all of us, his departure has created a gaping chasm in the band’s lineup.
Shortly after Starkey’s departure was announced, news began spreading of a coup brewing behind the scenes in The Who. It was implied by sources that Daltrey’s dissatisfaction centered around concerns about Starkey’s drumming style during live performances.
“All I’ve got is drums going boom, boom, boom. I can’t sing to that. I’m sorry guys.” – Roger Daltrey
Taken further, this poignant line reveals the impact it had on Starkey’s battle to keep balance in the band’s ecosystem. The Who’s long-time manager teased at a possible new direction for the band’s live performance.
Starkey’s years with The Who cemented his reputation as one of rock’s greatest drummers. He had a deep reverence for the band’s history. His departure is a bittersweet one for him and for fans who’ve followed his career as closely as he has the sport.
Whatever the future holds, right now Starkey is focusing on his health and family. He is looking forward to having ‘Domino Bones’ released on Mantra of the Cosmos, and finishing his long overdue autobiography. All together, these capital projects around Starkey are cause for excitement. He is leaving behind a life on the road with The Who.