Complete List Of The Who Band Members looks at one of the greatest bands in classic rock history. The Who was founded in London in 1964 and has become one of the most influential and enduring acts in the history of rock music. The original lineup consisted of Roger Daltrey on vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar, John Entwistle on bass, and Keith Moon on drums. Each member was a powerhouse in their own right, and together they created a unique blend of rock, pop, and mod influences that would come to define a generation.
The band initially gained fame in the United Kingdom before breaking through to international stardom. Their early hits, including “I Can’t Explain,” “My Generation,” and “Substitute,” captured the rebellious spirit of the ’60s youth culture. They quickly rose through the ranks of British rock bands, distinguishing themselves with Townshend’s windmill guitar strums, Daltrey’s powerful vocals, Entwistle’s intricate bass lines, and Moon’s wild drumming.
In the late ’60s and ’70s, The Who continued to evolve, both musically and conceptually. Townshend, the primary songwriter, became interested in creating “rock operas”—albums that told a coherent story throughout. This led to the release of one of their most famous albums, “Tommy,” in 1969. The album was a critical and commercial success, spawning hits like “Pinball Wizard.” Following “Tommy,” The Who released “Who’s Next” in 1971, which featured classic tracks like “Baba O’Riley” and “Behind Blue Eyes.”
Tragedy struck the band in 1978 when Keith Moon died from a drug overdose. He was replaced by Kenney Jones, formerly of the Small Faces. The band released two more albums, “Face Dances” and “It’s Hard,” but neither managed to capture the explosive energy of their previous work. The Who disbanded in 1983, although they would reunite several times for tours and special events.
John Entwistle passed away in 2002, right before the start of another reunion tour, leaving Daltrey and Townshend as the only surviving original members. Despite the losses, The Who continued to perform and even released new music, including the album “Endless Wire” in 2006. In 2019, the band released another album, “Who,” proving their enduring appeal and relevance in the music world.
THE WHO CURRENT AND FORMER BAND MEMBERS
Roger Daltrey
Roger Daltrey, born in London, England, is the iconic lead vocalist for The Who. He was a founding member of the band when it formed in 1964. Daltrey has been a constant in the band’s ever-changing lineup, providing vocals on all of The Who’s major studio albums, including iconic releases like “Tommy” (1969), “Who’s Next” (1971), and “Quadrophenia” (1973). Known for his powerful, emotive voice, Daltrey is also famous for his energetic stage presence, including his iconic microphone swinging. Although he didn’t compose many of The Who’s songs, his interpretations of Pete Townshend’s compositions helped shape them into classics. Besides his work with The Who, Daltrey has had a successful solo career and has also acted in a variety of films and television shows. He was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to music.
Pete Townshend
Pete Townshend, also born in London, is the primary songwriter and guitarist for The Who. Like Daltrey, he was a founding member of the band. Townshend is the creative force behind many of The Who’s most famous songs and concept albums. He played on all of the band’s major albums, from their debut “My Generation” (1965) to more recent works like “Endless Wire” (2006). His compositions like “Baba O’Riley,” “Pinball Wizard,” and “My Generation” have become anthems for generations of rock fans. Townshend is known for his windmill guitar strumming technique and for literally bringing theatrics into rock music—he was one of the first to regularly smash his guitar onstage. Outside of The Who, Townshend has also had a successful solo career and has been involved in various charitable activities. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Kennedy Center Honors in 2008, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Who in 1990.
John Entwistle
John Entwistle, born in Chiswick, London, was the bass guitarist for The Who and another founding member of the band. He was part of the original lineup and played on all the major albums until his untimely death in 2002, just a day before the band’s U.S. tour. Known for his virtuoso technique and dexterity, Entwistle was often referred to as “Thunderfingers” and played a significant role in creating the band’s distinctive sound. He also wrote some of the band’s songs, including “Boris the Spider” and “My Wife.” Outside of The Who, Entwistle had a solo career and participated in other musical projects. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Who in 1990.
Keith Moon
Keith Moon, originally from Wembley, London, was The Who’s iconic drummer until his death in 1978. Joining the band in 1964, Moon was an integral part of the band’s original lineup and played on all their major albums up to “Who Are You” (1978). Known for his wild, chaotic drumming style, Moon was the heartbeat of the band’s sound. His unpredictable behavior and antics, both on and off stage, made him a legendary figure in rock history. Despite his untamed lifestyle, his contributions to The Who and to drumming as an art form are immeasurable. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Who in 1990.
Doug Sandom
Doug Sandom, a London native, was The Who’s drummer before Keith Moon. He was part of the band when they were known as “The Detours” and left in early 1964 before they changed their name to The Who. Sandom didn’t appear on any of the major studio albums but did participate in early live performances and demos.
Colin Dawson
Colin Dawson was the original lead singer for The Detours, the precursor to The Who. He left the band in 1962, and Roger Daltrey, who was originally the band’s lead guitarist, took over on vocals. Dawson didn’t record any major albums with the band.
Gabby Connolly
Gabby Connolly was a harmonica player who briefly played with The Detours. He left the band before they became The Who, and did not participate in any major recordings.
Kenney Jones
Kenney Jones, from London’s East End, became The Who’s drummer after the death of Keith Moon in 1978. He participated in two studio albums, “Face Dances” (1981) and “It’s Hard” (1982), before the band initially disbanded in 1983. While he was technically proficient, he had a more restrained style compared to Keith Moon, which divided some fans. Jones has also been a member of other successful bands, most notably the Small Faces and the Faces. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Small Faces/Faces in 2012.
The Who Touring Musicians
Zak Starkey
Zak Starkey, the son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, joined The Who in 1996. He was initially hired for the Quadrophenia tour and proved to be a fitting successor to Keith Moon, capturing the original drummer’s frenetic energy. Starkey has played on several Who albums, including “Endless Wire” (2006) and “Who” (2019). Apart from The Who, Zak Starkey has had a notable career, drumming for other artists like Oasis and Johnny Marr.
Simon Townshend
Simon Townshend, Pete Townshend’s younger brother, has been a touring member of The Who since the ’90s. While not an official member, he has contributed significantly to the band’s live performances, playing rhythm guitar and providing backup vocals. Simon has a solo career as well, having released several albums and EPs.
John “Rabbit” Bundrick
John “Rabbit” Bundrick was a significant addition to The Who, primarily serving as a keyboardist from 1979 until 2011. He was a session musician on many of the band’s later albums and contributed to the richness of their live sound. Outside of The Who, Bundrick has also worked with artists like Free and Bob Marley.
Loren Gold
Loren Gold joined The Who in 2012 as a keyboardist, succeeding John “Rabbit” Bundrick. Gold has been part of the band’s recent world tours and contributed to their 2019 album, “Who.” He has also performed with various other artists, like Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato.
Jon Button
Jon Button stepped in as the touring bassist for The Who in 2017. He has participated in the band’s recent tours, providing the bass lines that are so integral to The Who’s sound. Button has also been an active session musician, working with artists like Sheryl Crow and Robben Ford.
Billy Nicholls
Billy Nicholls has been a backing vocalist for The Who since the 1989 reunion tour. Although not an official member, his contributions in live performances have been vital. Nicholls is also known for his solo work, particularly his cult classic album “Would You Believe.”
Keith Levenson
Keith Levenson has served as the musical director for some of The Who’s tours. His role involves conducting orchestras when the band performs live, particularly during renditions of “Tommy” and “Quadrophenia.”
Katie Jacoby
Violinist Katie Jacoby has been a touring member of The Who since 2019, lending her skills to the band’s orchestral performances. She has also collaborated with other artists like Ed Palermo and The Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Audrey Q.
Audrey Q. has contributed saxophone to The Who’s live performances. She has been part of the touring ensemble, particularly for performances involving orchestral arrangements.
Emily Marshall
Emily Marshall serves as a keyboardist and has been part of The Who’s touring ensemble. She contributes to the band’s expansive live sound, particularly during orchestral performances.
Randy Landau
Randy Landau has been a touring bassist with The Who, particularly when the band performs with orchestral accompaniment. His experience in both rock and classical settings makes him a versatile addition to the band’s live setup.
Howie Casey
Howie Casey was a saxophonist who contributed to The Who’s live sound. He was a session musician for some of their live performances, enhancing their horn sections. Apart from The Who, Casey has also worked extensively with Paul McCartney and Wings, among other artists.
Dick Parry
Dick Parry is best known for his saxophone work with Pink Floyd, but he has also contributed his saxophone talents to The Who. He has played in live settings with the band, adding a different texture to their sound.
David Caswell
David Caswell is a trumpet player who has been part of The Who’s live horn section. He has been involved in enriching the band’s live performances, particularly in tours where a fuller, orchestral sound was desired. Caswell has a wide range of musical experience, having worked with many other artists as well.
Reg Brooks
Reg Brooks is a trombonist who has worked with The Who in a live setting. He was a part of the band’s horn section, contributing to the richness of their live performances. He has a diverse musical background and has performed with various other artists and ensembles.
Tim Gorman
Tim Gorman served as a keyboardist for The Who, particularly during the ’80s. He was involved in both studio recordings and live performances. Outside of The Who, Gorman has been an in-demand session musician.
Chyna Gordon
Chyna Gordon provided backing vocals for The Who during some of their live performances. She has been part of the band’s touring ensemble and has contributed to the vocal harmonies in live shows.
Cleveland Watkiss
Cleveland Watkiss has also provided backing vocals for The Who in their live performances. Known for his versatile voice, he has a broad musical background, having worked in genres ranging from jazz to opera.
Simon Clarke
Simon Clarke has contributed as a saxophonist for The Who. He has been part of the band’s horn section, primarily during live performances that required a fuller sound.
Tim Sanders
Tim Sanders is another saxophonist who has been part of The Who’s horn section. Like Simon Clarke, he has played primarily during live performances, adding depth and variety to the band’s sound.
Roddy Lorimer
Roddy Lorimer is a trumpet player who has contributed to The Who’s live performances. His playing has been part of the band’s horn section, enhancing the richness and diversity of their live sound. Lorimer has also had a prolific career outside of The Who, working with various artists across different genres.
Simon Philips
Simon Philips is a renowned drummer who has occasionally collaborated with The Who. Known for his technical proficiency and versatility, he’s been a part of both their studio and live setups. Outside of The Who, he has worked with an array of artists across different genres, most notably with Toto.
Steve Bolton
Steve Bolton is a guitarist who contributed to The Who’s sound, particularly in live settings. He played during certain tours and provided additional guitar work to complement Pete Townshend. Bolton has also enjoyed a successful career outside The Who, collaborating with a variety of artists.
Jody Linscott
Jody Linscott is a percussionist who has been involved in The Who’s live performances. Known for her skill on the congas and other percussion instruments, she has added a rhythmic layer to the band’s live sound. She has also worked extensively in the studio and on stage with other notable acts.
Simon Gardner
Simon Gardner is a trumpet player who has contributed to The Who’s horn section, primarily during live performances. His work has added an orchestral layer to the band’s robust sound. Apart from The Who, Gardner has been an active session musician.
Neil Sidwell
Neil Sidwell is a trombonist who has been a part of The Who’s horn section, mainly in live performances. Like Simon Gardner, his contributions have enriched the band’s live sound. He has also worked with a wide variety of other artists.
Jon Carin
Jon Carin has contributed as a keyboardist for The Who, enhancing both their studio recordings and live performances. Besides The Who, he has also been a frequent collaborator with Pink Floyd and has a broad resume in the music industry.
Dennis Farias
Dennis Farias is a trumpet player who has been part of The Who’s live horn section. He’s contributed to the live sound of the band, particularly in tours featuring a fuller sound. Farias has been a versatile musician, also working with other artists and groups.
Roy Wiegand
Roy Wiegand is a trombonist who has performed with The Who in a live setting, contributing to their horn section. His work has helped to add a rich, orchestral quality to the band’s performances. Outside of The Who, Wiegand has performed with various other artists.
Nick Lane
Nick Lane has contributed as a trombonist for The Who, adding depth to their horn section during live performances. He has also been an active session and live musician, working with multiple artists in different genres.
Pino Palladino
Pino Palladino is a bassist who joined The Who after the death of John Entwistle in 2002. He has played on studio recordings and been a consistent part of their live setup. Palladino is also highly respected for his work outside The Who, including collaborations with artists like John Mayer and Nine Inch Nails.
Frank Simes
Frank Simes has served as a musical director and multi-instrumentalist for The Who, involved in both their studio and live work. He has been an integral part of their more recent performances, and has a long history in the music industry with other acts as well.
John Corey
John Corey is a multi-instrumentalist who has contributed to The Who’s live performances, adding both keyboards and additional guitar work. He has also had a long and varied career outside of the band, working with other high-profile musicians.
J. Greg Miller
J. Greg Miller has been part of The Who’s horn section, contributing as a trumpet player during live performances. His work has added another layer to the band’s expansive live sound.
Reggie Grisham
Reggie Grisham is a horn player who has been part of The Who’s live setup. Like many of the other horn section members, his contributions have enriched the band’s live performances. Grisham has also worked with a variety of other artists, contributing to both live shows and studio recordings.
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