The Who's Dramatic Drummer Change: Starkey Back In The Fold

Henrik Larsen

5 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Kenney Jones: A Necessary but Ultimately Unsuitable Replacement

Following the tragic loss of Keith Moon in 1978, finding a replacement drummer for The Who was an almost impossible task. Moon's chaotic yet brilliant style was unparalleled. Enter Kenney Jones, a highly skilled drummer from Faces, a band with its own legendary status. His recruitment, while seemingly logical, highlighted the immense challenge of filling Moon's shoes. Keywords: Kenney Jones, drumming style, Keith Moon's legacy, The Who's sound, band dynamics.

• Jones’s more restrained style contrasted sharply with Moon’s wild energy. While technically proficient, Jones lacked Moon's unpredictable, explosive flair.
• The band's creative direction shifted somewhat with Jones behind the kit. The Who's music took on a more polished, less raw edge.
• Fan reception to Jones was mixed. Many appreciated his skill, but many others felt he couldn't capture the essence of Moon's contribution. The band itself acknowledged the change in dynamic.

The Search for a New Drummer: A Long and Winding Road

The years following Kenney Jones's departure in 1985 saw The Who largely inactive as a touring and recording entity. The search for a drummer who could even remotely approach the iconic status of Keith Moon proved fruitless. While various session musicians filled in for live performances and recordings, none held the role permanently. The challenge wasn't just finding technical skill; it was about finding a drummer who could embody the spirit and energy of The Who's unique sound. Keywords: The Who drummers, replacement drummer, Keith Moon replacement, finding a drummer.

• The difficulties in replicating Moon's unique style. Moon's drumming was more than just technical ability; it was about attitude, showmanship, and an almost reckless abandon.
• The impact of the search on the band's creative output. The absence of a permanent drummer significantly impacted their creative output and live performances.
• The pressure on potential replacements. Stepping into Moon's shoes was a daunting proposition, with inevitable comparisons weighing heavily on potential candidates.

Zak Starkey's Return: A Full Circle Moment

The announcement of Zak Starkey's return to The Who was met with excitement and intrigue. The son of Ringo Starr, a drumming legend in his own right, Starkey has a history with The Who. He’s previously filled in for the band and was a highly respected session musician. His return is not merely about replacing a drummer; it represents a comfortable familiarity, a continuity, and a musical synergy that transcends mere technical ability. Keywords: Zak Starkey, Ringo Starr, session musician, The Who reunion, band dynamics.

• Starkey’s familiarity with the band's catalog. His prior experience playing with The Who provided a seamless transition.
• The seamless integration of his drumming style. Starkey’s drumming style complements the other members without attempting to mimic Moon or Jones.
• The positive reception from fans and critics. His performances have generally been lauded for their skill and respect for The Who's legacy.

The Musical and Cultural Impact of Starkey’s Return

Starkey's presence has undeniably affected The Who's sound. It’s less about replicating past glories and more about evolving the band's music within their established framework. While the raw energy of Moon's era might be absent, Starkey provides a solid, powerful rhythmic foundation. The critical response has largely been positive, acknowledging Starkey's skill and his contribution to the band's ongoing relevance. Keywords: The Who's music, musical legacy, critical reception, fan reaction, cultural impact.

• Examples of specific songs or albums featuring Starkey’s drumming. Analyzing specific tracks showcases the impact of his drumming style on the band's recent output.
• Quotes from critics or reviews. Positive critical reviews can highlight the impact of Starkey's performance on the band's overall sound and critical standing.
• Fan feedback and opinions from forums or social media. Exploring fan reactions to Starkey's return provides a valuable insight into the cultural impact of the drummer change.

Conclusion: Starkey's Return: A New Chapter for The Who

The Who's journey, marked by significant drummer changes, reflects the band's enduring resilience and creative evolution. From the untamable force of Keith Moon to the solid professionalism of Kenney Jones, and now the comfortable familiarity of Zak Starkey, each drummer has contributed to shaping the band's unique identity. Starkey's return signifies not just a continuation but a new chapter, one that respects the past while forging a path into the future. Keywords: The Who drummer change, Zak Starkey, musical legacy, rock band history.

What are your thoughts on The Who's dramatic drummer changes? Share your opinions in the comments below! Let's discuss the impact of Starkey's return on the legendary band's future.