Zak Starkey Departs The Who Again: New Drummer Announced

Zak Starkey parts ways with The Who once more after nearly three decades; Scott Devours steps in as the new drummer for the legendary band.

Zak Starkey’s Departure from The Who

Just a month after being fired and then quickly rehired, Zak Starkey has once again parted ways with The Who — this time for good. Starkey, who had been filling the late Keith Moon’s iconic shoes for 29 years, will be replaced by Scott Devours. Devours is well-known as the longtime drummer for Roger Daltrey’s solo band, the frontman of The Who.

Zak Starkey performing on drums

Pete Townshend shared the news on Instagram, acknowledging Starkey’s significant contributions but emphasizing the need for change:

“After many years of great work on drums from Zak, the time has come for a change. A poignant time. Zak has lots of new projects in hand and I wish him the best.” — Pete Townshend

Later, The Who’s official website published a statement from Townshend and Daltrey, highlighting the reasons behind the split, including stylistic differences with Starkey’s playing.

The Official Statement and The Who’s Farewell Tour

The joint statement from Townshend and Daltrey shed more light on the decision:

“The Who are heading for retirement,” the statement read, referring to the band’s upcoming farewell tour across North America. “Whereas Zak is 20 years younger and has a great future with his new band and other exciting projects. He needs to devote all his energy into making it all a success. We both wish him all the luck in the world.”

The Who’s farewell tour kicks off on August 16 in Sunrise, Florida, and will continue through September 28 in Las Vegas. International dates, however, have not yet been announced.

Zak Starkey’s Response

Zak Starkey took to Instagram to clarify the situation and express his feelings:

“I was fired two weeks after reinstatement and asked to make a statement saying I had quit the Who to pursue my other musical endeavours. This would be a lie. I love the Who and would never had quit. So I didn’t make the statement. Quitting the Who would also have let down the countless amazing people who stood up for me (thank you all a million times over and more) thru the weeks of mayhem of me going ‘in and out an in and out an in and out’ like a bleedin squeezebox x.”

What’s Next for Zak Starkey?

Following this chapter, Starkey plans to take some well-deserved time off with his family. He's also working on finishing his autobiography, which he assures is “written solely by me.” Additionally, he’ll continue to collaborate with Mantra of the Cosmos, a band featuring Ride/Oasis member Andy Bell and Happy Mondays members Shaun Ryder and Bez.

The Who’s Legacy and Closing Thoughts

For nearly three decades, Zak Starkey was a crucial part of The Who’s rhythm section, helping to carry on the legacy of one of rock’s most iconic drummers, Keith Moon. As the band prepares to embark on their farewell tour, the change in lineup marks the end of an era.

Are you curious how Scott Devours will shape The Who's final performances? Only time will tell.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Zak Starkey?
  Zak Starkey is a renowned drummer who has played with The Who for nearly 30 years, following in the footsteps of the legendary Keith Moon.
• Why was Zak Starkey fired again?
  Differences in playing style and the band’s forthcoming retirement prompted the decision to replace Starkey with Scott Devours.
• Who is Scott Devours?
  Scott Devours is a seasoned drummer known for his work with Roger Daltrey’s solo band and now The Who’s new drummer.
• When does The Who’s farewell tour start?
  The farewell tour begins on August 16 in Sunrise, Florida, and runs through September 28 in Las Vegas.
• What are Zak Starkey’s future plans?
  He intends to take time off, finish his autobiography, and continue working with his band Mantra of the Cosmos.

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