Personalities | The Who | Reunited & Revitalized (1985–2010) | An Overview

After the farewell tour of 1982, Pete Townshend made it clear that he wanted out of the band and a complete break-up followed. Despite misgivings, they agreed to play Live Aid in the summer of 1985 and, although a messy affair, the gig did get the band talking again and the subject of 25th anniversary celebrations were raised. No more was said for a further two years, until Townshend – of all people – resurrected the idea.

Becoming aware of the dire financial situation his long- time friend John Entwistle found himself in, as well as acknowledging his own money problems, Townshend agreed to a small tour. The lucrative The Kids Are Alright tour eventually took in 40 shows and afforded the opportunity for philanthropy, with charity performances of Tommy in the US and UK. At Daltrey’s insistence, Kenney Jones was replaced on drums.

Once the tour was over the three surviving members once again retreated to their solo activities. The Nineties saw the emergence of Britpop, and with it a new respect for The Who. This resulted in a charity performance of Quadrophenia at Hyde Park in 1996, and the members enjoyed the experience enough to take the production on the road. They returned to full active duty in 1999 and have been touring regularly ever since. An album, Endless Wire, was released in 2006 and marked the first recording of new material for 24 years.

Personalities | Introducing The Who
Personalities | The Who | Reunited & Revitalized (1985) | Key Events

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