The Who Brings Farewell Tour to Vancouver After Six Decades

Legendary British rock band The Who is set to perform in Vancouver on September 23, 2023, as part of their North American Farewell Tour titled “The Song Is Over.” This tour marks a significant moment for fans, as it comes sixty years after singer Roger Daltrey delivered the iconic line “I hope I die before I get old” in the classic anthem “My Generation.”

The band has a long-standing history with Vancouver, dating back to their debut concert at the PNE Agrodome on March 1, 1968. Although the performance received modest coverage at the time, noting merely a photograph and a small mention in The Vancouver Sun’s Rock Session, it was a pivotal moment that began a legacy of unforgettable shows in the city.

A Legacy of Epic Performances

Over the decades, The Who has built a reputation for electrifying performances. Their first farewell tour in 1982 was followed by several reunions, including a notable 25th-anniversary tour in 1989. Each of these events has been met with enthusiasm, showcasing the band’s enduring appeal. Despite hints of retirement, the group has continued to tour, with their 2019 tour promoting the album *WHO* reaffirming their commitment to live music.

Vancouver fans experienced a powerful performance on April 14, 1980, at the Pacific Coliseum, where Vancouver Sun reviewer Jamie Lamb praised the band, stating, “Nobody does it better than the legend known as The Who.” A highlight of that concert was the song “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” noted for its defiant lyrics and Daltrey’s memorable scream that resonates with audiences even today.

The Who’s history has not been without its tragedies. The band’s original drummer, Keith Moon, died from a drug overdose at the age of 32 in 1978, leading to the recruitment of former Small Faces drummer Kenney Jones. Jones accompanied the band during the tumultuous Cincinnati concert in which a fan rush resulted in the deaths of eleven attendees. His tenure ended with the 1982 farewell tour.

Current Lineup and Future Prospects

Currently, Daltrey and guitarist/songwriter Pete Townshend are joined by Simon Townshend, Jon Button, Loren Gold, and drummer Scott Devours. The departure of long-time drummer Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr, earlier this year has marked a new chapter for the band. Despite the changes, The Who continues to celebrate their legacy and the music that has made them legendary.

As anticipation builds for the upcoming concert, tickets range from $56.90 and are available through Ticketmaster. Observers note that the band’s return to Vancouver not only reflects their storied past but also raises questions about the future of one of rock’s most influential acts. With reports suggesting the band could earn up to $20 million each before the tour concludes, the financial incentives for continuing to perform are clear.

The Who’s Vancouver show promises to be a tribute to their remarkable history and an opportunity for fans to experience the energy that has defined their music for over half a century. As they embark on this farewell tour, audiences will undoubtedly hold onto the hope that this is not the last time they hear those iconic songs resonating through arenas.