Zak Starkey showcases his musical range from The Beatles to The Who in latest NYC performance
Renowned drummer Zak Starkey, known for his spectacular performances with iconic bands like The Who, has had a life unlike most. Growing up, Starkey was surrounded by legendary musicians without even realizing it. Reflecting on his youth, Starkey remarked, “When ‘The Last Waltz’ came out (in 1978), I realized that for the last 18 months I had been jamming with these guys. I had no idea who they were. They were my dad’s mates and they would all come in the afternoon and they would put me on the drums. It would always be Stephen Stills, not Robbie Robertson, and Garth (Hudson) would be there. Richard Manuel would be there and Billy Preston and Dr. John. Yeah man, I didn’t know who they were.”
Venturing into adulthood, Starkey entered the music world with a fresh perspective. With a drumming pedigree nurtured by some of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll luminaries, Starkey embarked on a musical journey that would see him sharing the stage with notable bands. Balancing his family ties, Starkey’s unique vantage point in the industry has allowed him to navigate the stardust with clarity. Embracing his storied past and musical expertise, Starkey has crafted a captivating multi-media show titled “Zak Starkey…Who?: An Evening of Drums and Conversation,” promising an engaging blend of music, anecdotes, and more, alongside Marky Ramone. Eager fans can catch this extraordinary event on Friday, Feb. 20 at the renowned Gramercy Theatre in New York City.
Amid Starkey’s intriguing upbringing and professional trajectory, his encounters with legendary figures continued, exemplified by his experiences with Keith Moon, the enigmatic drummer of The Who and a close family friend. Recalling these interactions, Starkey shared a humorous anecdote, “He came and took some of our clothes so he could measure us for wet suits to surf. When he came to pick us up on a Friday night he took us straight to a nightclub …. Our clothes were in the back of the car and he didn’t mention anything and we went and stayed with him and didn’t do any surfing.” Such personal connections and unforgettable moments have shaped Starkey’s musical odyssey.
Despite Starkey’s long-standing role as The Who’s drummer, a recent turn of events saw him parting ways with the legendary band. Departing at the request of lead singer Roger Daltrey before their final tour last year, Starkey humorously likened the situation to “the drumming version of Brexit,” highlighting the band’s desire for a change in direction. Starkey’s musical prowess and dynamic contributions have left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape, cementing his status as a revered figure in the industry.
From jamming with rock royalty in his youth to gracing the world’s stages with powerhouse performances, Zak Starkey’s musical journey showcases a remarkable fusion of legacy, talent, and unwavering passion. As he continues to captivate audiences with his unparalleled drumming skills and engaging storytelling, Starkey stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of rock ‘n’ roll.