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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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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
