Zak Starkey, the renowned drummer, was recently in the spotlight after revealing that he was asked to tour with the iconic band Oasis before his departure from The Who. The saga began earlier this year, with Starkey allegedly getting fired from touring with The Who, a band he had been a part of for 29 years. In a candid interview with The Telegraph, Starkey shared his side of the story, shedding light on the events that led to his exit from the band.
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The 59-year-old drummer disclosed that he had the opportunity to join Oasis on tour but ultimately turned down the offer. This revelation came amidst the turbulence surrounding his status with The Who. Initially, Starkey announced his departure from the band in April, only to have that decision reversed shortly after due to what was described as “communication issues” within the group.
However, the drama didn’t end there, as The Who once again announced Starkey’s departure the following month. Starkey claimed that not only was he fired, but he was also asked to fabricate the reasons for his exit. Reflecting on a specific performance of “The Song Is Over” at London’s Royal Albert Hall in April, Starkey expressed his frustration at the band’s handling of the situation. He stated, “What happened was I got it right and Roger [Daltrey] got it wrong.”
According to Starkey, the band members had differing views on the performance, with tensions running high. Despite the rollercoaster of events, Starkey still holds The Who dear to his heart, referring to them as his “family.” He expressed his willingness to rejoin the group if the opportunity presented itself in the future. Starkey’s loyalty and dedication to the band were evident, despite the challenges they faced.
In the interview, Starkey highlighted the unpredictability and intensity of The Who’s dynamic, stating that they can be “aggressive and f—— insane.” Nevertheless, he made it clear that he harbors no ill will towards the band members. His openness about the challenges he faced underscores the deep bond he shares with the group, despite the recent turn of events.
Looking ahead, Starkey revealed that he remains open to rejoining The Who if the chance arises. In a conversation with Roger Daltrey, he was subtly reassured that his drums should stay at The Who’s warehouse, hinting at a potential reunion down the line. Starkey’s resilience and optimism in the face of adversity reflect his enduring passion for music and his commitment to his craft.
In conclusion, Zak Starkey’s journey with The Who has been marked by highs and lows, revealing the complexities of relationships within a legendary band. His unwavering dedication to music and his willingness to navigate challenges with grace and integrity serve as a testament to his resilience as a musician. As the music industry continues to evolve, Starkey’s story stands as a reminder of the enduring power of artistic expression and the bonds forged through shared creative endeavors.