**Zak Starkey Parts Ways with The Who: A Surprising Departure**
**Meta Description:** Drummer Zak Starkey expresses surprise and sadness over his departure from The Who after nearly 30 years with the band.
**URL Slug:** zak-starkey-departs-the-who
**Headline:** Zak Starkey Announces Departure from The Who After Nearly Three Decades
Drummer Zak Starkey has expressed his surprise and sadness following his departure from The Who, a band he has been part of since 1996. His exit comes after recent charity performances at the Royal Albert Hall, where the band played for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Starkey, the son of Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, joined The Who during their Quadrophenia tour and has since become an integral part of the band’s legacy.
Earlier this week, The Who released a statement indicating that a “collective decision” had been made regarding Starkey’s departure, which followed their March charity shows. A review of one of the performances suggested that lead singer Roger Daltrey was “frustrated” with the drumming during certain tracks, raising questions about Starkey’s performance.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Starkey reflected on his nearly 30 years with the band, stating, “Filling the shoes of my Godfather, ‘Uncle Keith,’ has been the biggest honour, and I remain their biggest fan. They’ve been like family to me.” Starkey was introduced to drumming by Keith Moon, The Who’s iconic drummer and a family friend who passed away in 1978.
In January, Starkey faced a serious health issue due to blood clots in his right leg, which led to the cancellation of a performance with his other band, Mantra Of The Cosmos. However, he confirmed that he has fully recovered and that his health no longer affects his drumming abilities. “After playing those songs with the band for so many decades, I’m surprised and saddened anyone would have an issue with my performance that night, but what can you do?” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Starkey plans to take some much-needed time off with his family and focus on the release of Mantra Of The Cosmos’ single “Domino Bones,” which features Noel Gallagher, as well as work on his autobiography. He concluded, “Twenty-nine years at any job is a good old run, and I wish them the best.”
**FAQ:**
**Q: Why did Zak Starkey leave The Who?**
A: Zak Starkey’s departure from The Who was a collective decision made after recent performances, and he expressed surprise and sadness over the decision.
