Music Industry

Right down front: Photos from The Who in Toronto

[Photographer Andrei Chlytchkov got up nice and close to The Who when they performed at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on September 3. Andrei has these words as well. – AC]

The Who are still plugging away, even thought it’s been down to just Pete and Roger since John died in 2002. (Keith’s been gone since 1978, of course). And they still attract the faithful wherever they go.

Openers were Moon vs. Sun, the collaboration between husband-and-wife Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace (a four-time Juno winner) and Chantal Kreviazuk (a double winner).

Writing together on their own project for the first time, they touch on the depth of their lives and partnership in a lyrical honesty rarely explored, while creating music based on their most profound influences – Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Neil Young. Passionate, honest and brave, the duo is embarking on their most challenging and fulfilling music journey yet together.

They also shot a documentary based on their new collaboration called I’m Going to Break Your Heart. (The trailer can be found here.)

After a short intermission, The Who appeared, making up for a show they had to postpone earlier this year. Portions of the show were accompanied by an orchestra.

Two songs in their set were from their upcoming studio album. In a twist, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” was presented in an acoustic form.

And towards the end of the set, Roger lost his voice. Didn’t matter, really, because the crowd carried “Baba O’Reilly,” the final song of the night, quite well.

Pete also commented on how it was nice to be in one of the world’s biggest countries that hasn’t gone crazy and maybe he should move here.

Pete can still jump, although not quite as high.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 38035 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

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