Zak Starkey: Departure from The Who and What Comes Next
Zak Starkey, a renowned drummer and son of Ringo Starr, made headlines in 2025 following his surprising split from The Who. The event sparked discussions in the music world and raised questions about the future of both the band and Starkey himself. Read on to understand what happened, why, and what lies ahead for this iconic musician.
Who is Zak Starkey?
Zak Starkey is widely recognized not only as the son of legendary Beatles drummer Ringo Starr but as a respected musician in his own right. Since joining The Who in the 1990s, Zak Starkey built a reputation for energetic, reliable performance and became an indispensable part of the band's sound. Over the years, he also collaborated with famous acts like Oasis and the Icicle Works.
Recent Turmoil with The Who
Starkey's relationship with The Who took a turbulent turn in 2025. According to CNN, Starkey was dismissed from the band not once, but twice within a month. The reasons cited ranged from musical disagreements during live shows to broader communication issues among the group. Pete Townshend, the band's guitarist, mentioned the decision was mutual, but Starkey publicly disagreed, stating on Instagram that he was asked to say he quit, which he called untrue.
Starkey described the experience as a whirlwind, noting there were “weeks of mayhem” surrounding his status with the band. Both sides ultimately decided to part ways just three months prior to The Who’s North American farewell tour. Scott Devours, a seasoned drummer and frequent collaborator with Roger Daltrey, is set to replace Starkey.
Starkey’s Perspective on the Split
In his own words, Zak made it clear that he did not want to leave The Who. As reported by USA Today, Starkey posted, "I was fired two weeks after reinstatement and asked to make a statement saying I had quit The Who to pursue my other musical endeavors. This would be a lie."
He emphasized the sporadic nature of The Who’s touring schedule and insisted that his other projects never interfered with the band. Zak Starkey's professionalism and love for The Who remained evident throughout these trying times. Further details and reactions from both sides are available in Yahoo’s deeper coverage.
What’s Next for Zak Starkey?
Though his time with The Who has ended, Zak Starkey is far from slowing down. He’s focused on a "more contemporary project," reportedly a supergroup called Mantra of the Cosmos, which includes musicians from other major bands like Oasis. Starkey's energy and experience ensure that his drumming legacy will continue to grow beyond his storied tenure with The Who.
Conclusion
Zak Starkey’s departure from The Who marks the end of an era but also signals a new chapter for the accomplished drummer. His influence and drive keep him at the forefront of the music world. Fans can look forward to his fresh projects and continued impact on rock music. For more background and ongoing updates, visit CNN’s detailed report on his journey.