Veteran rock band The Who exemplifies grace and expertise in performance.
English rock band The Who displayed a prime example of seasoned expertise during their performance at the Hollywood Bowl in California on September 19, bidding farewell with a touching sentimental touch. The legendary band’s last goodbye felt truly significant with the presence of the remaining two original members, 80-year-old Pete Townshend and 81-year-old Roger Daltrey.
Throughout their illustrious four-decade-long career, The Who has embarked on multiple farewell tours, but this time, the fall of 2025 tour with Townshend and Daltrey felt different, possibly marking the true end of an era. The band’s performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl showcased their enduring energy and passion for their timeless music, paying homage to their distinguished catalog with both respect and a youthful, rebellious spirit reminiscent of their glory days.
The concert kicked off with a rousing start, opening with the classic hits “I Can’t Explain” and “Substitute” from the band’s mid-60s era, setting the tone for an evening of exceptional music. The backing band’s homage to The Who’s iconic legacy was evident, with new drummer Scott Devours seamlessly replacing longtime drummer Zak Starkey. The decision to forgo orchestral accompaniment in favor of a raw, exciting performance injected an element of unpredictability into the show, making Townshend, Daltrey, and their bandmates work harder and creating a more dynamic performance.
The inclusion of rarely performed songs like “Long Live Rock” and “Another Tricky Day” delighted the audience, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment. Special vocal features by Simon Townshend on “Goin’ Mobile” added a fresh twist to the setlist, breathing new life into classic tracks. The band’s passionate rendition of songs from the acclaimed album “Quadrophenia” highlighted Townshend’s deep appreciation for the record, with selections like “I’m One,” “The Real Me,” “5:15,” and “Love Reign O’er Me” capturing the album’s grandeur and complexity.
While Pete Townshend’s stage acrobatics may have lessened with age, his guitar prowess remains as formidable as ever, blending intricate rhythms with bold, innovative solos. Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals continued to captivate the audience, showcasing an incredible range and emotional depth that belied his 81 years. Songs like “Love Reign O’er Me” served as a testament to Daltrey’s enduring talent and showmanship.
As the concert drew to a close, classic rock anthems like “Won’t Get Fooled Again” and “Baba O’Riley” stirred the audience into a frenzy, with special mentions to Katie Jacoby’s electrifying violin solo. The emotional finale of “The Song Is Over” and the intimate acoustic performance of “Tea & Theatre” provided a poignant farewell, with Townshend and Daltrey bidding adieu to their fans with a mixture of gratitude and sadness.
In conclusion, The Who’s final performance at the Hollywood Bowl was a fitting tribute to their extraordinary career, showcasing the band’s enduring talent and unwavering passion for music. As the last surviving members of the iconic group, Townshend and Daltrey left a lasting impression on their fans, ensuring that the legacy of The Who will never be forgotten. Long live rock, indeed.