Is It Weird for Ringo That His Son Zak Starkey Is the Drummer for The Who?

It’s not particularly weird for Ringo Starr that his son Zak Starkey is the drummer for The Who. In fact, it can be seen as a natural progression given their musical backgrounds. Ringo, as a legendary drummer from The Beatles, likely appreciates the talent and legacy of Zak playing with another iconic band. Zak has also played with other notable artists and bands, establishing a strong career in music.

There may be a sense of pride for Ringo knowing that his son is continuing the family legacy in rock music, even if it's with a different band. Family connections in the music industry are common, and many musicians often support each other across generations. This is not surprising, as it mirrors other instances in the industry, such as Max Weinberg from the E Street Band having his son Jay play for Slipknot.

Family Legacy and Musical Influence

No more weird than that! In numerous interviews, Ringo has expressed pride in his son's skills and career choice, despite his initial desires for him to become a lawyer or doctor. This pride is not just emotional; it's rooted in the rich musical history shared by the Starr and Moon families.

Keith Moon, The Who's original drummer and one of Ringo's best friends, had a profound influence on Zak. Moon was both a mentor and godfather to Zak. He taught him more about drums than his own father ever could, including buying Zak a drum kit at the age of eight. This deep-rooted connection means that Ringo is in touch with the spirit of his long-departed friend through his son’s drumming.

The Son of a Great Drummer

It's beautifully fitting that Keith Moon's godson would eventually step into his shoes as The Who's drummer. Zak Starkey’s playing style is eerily faithful to Keith Moon's spontaneous and improvisational style while being entirely his own. Unlike his mentor, who was known for his inconsistency, Zak's playing is more consistent and steady, essential for improving the band's live performance.

Collaborations between Zak and The Who have been noted for their seamless blend of old and new. For instance, the live performances of The Who, such as the Royal Albert Hall concert in 2000 and the Concert for New York City in 2001, showcase Zak's ability to fit seamlessly into the band's legacy. His talent is praised by band members and critics alike, making him a worthy successor of Keith Moon.

Pete Townsend, the guitarist and founding member of The Who, summed it up in an interview for the Live in Boston DVD: "There's an illusion with Zak that Zak in some way is Keith Moon. I can assure you he is not. I can assure you he is not. In many ways he doesn't come close to Keith's genius. But in many ways his own genius far surpasses Keith's."

Conclusion

This is the kind of story that fairy tales try to emulate—where a son rises to fill the shoes of a legendary father. The fact that Zak Starkey has earned his spot as a drummer for The Who is nothing short of incredible. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of music and the family connections that fuel its continued success. For Ringo Starr, it's not just a proud moment but a deeply emotional one, honoring his friend and mentor while witnessing the continuation of a musical tradition.

Keywords:

Ringo Starr Zak Starkey The Who Family in Music

The Who | Zak Starkey