The group is saying goodbye to audiences in North America
The Who played for the final time in Newark, NJ on Tuesday (Aug 19th). The legendary group consisting of musical icons Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend is on their final tour, aptly labeled The Song is Over.
Despite alluding to health issues in the run-up to this last North American run, Daltrey’s voice has its recognizable tone. Haunting yet melodic, rich yet restrained, he delivered the 20-plus numbers with strength and forcefulness. And yes, he still plays helicopter with that Shure SM58 on its cord. The poor, abused microphone had the cord duct-taped tightly around it. Anything for the theatrics, right?
That’s what The Who’s music is: theatrical rock. Townshend demonstrated as much on the sweeping solos embedded in “Who Are You.” At an even 80 years old, Townshend’s velvet fingers still play guitar like nobody else. It’s like he was born with a six-string in his hand.
And while Daltrey may be the frontman, Townshend has a killer set of pipes, too. He sang lead on a growling “Eminence Front” that got the crowd the loudest they’d been to that point all night.
Photos from the group’s storied history flashed on the massive screen overlooking the stage. Stylized with their recognizable arrow and the British mod-subculture blue/white/red target logo, images of all original members, British landmarks, and live shots encompassing 60 years were shown. The message was clear: the career has been long, and this is truly it.
The Boxmasters opened the night. They delivered a set of their unique throwback ’50s rock-meets-modern-alt-rock sound. Fronted by JD Andrew and Academy Award-winning movie star Billy Bob Thornton, the group has amassed a following on the strength of their music alone. Their on-stage aesthetic includes mechanics’ uniforms and a logo that would fit right in on the front of a train car diner. When Thornton is not filming Landman or one of his other projects, the Boxmasters release music and extensively tour nationwide.
The Who is among the most famous groups in all of music. As Thornton put it, “It’s the Beatles, the Stones, the Who. The greatest bands in music.” And it’s clear the fans agree. Don’t let the band’s blunt discussions of aging—or recent public band rejiggering—deter you. Should you see The Who one more time? You better, you better, you bet!
