Roger Daltrey, the legendary rock icon and co-founder of The Who, is set to return to the United States for a special solo tour this June. This tour promises a unique experience, featuring a mostly acoustic set of Who classics, rare tracks, solo hits, and other surprises. Daltrey will be accompanied by an intimate rock-based band and will also engage with the audience by answering their questions.
The tour kicks off on June 12 at the renowned Wolf Trap Filene Center in Virginia and will continue through nine cities, concluding on June 29 at The Pavilion at Ravinia in Highland Park, Illinois. The tour includes a stop at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on June 25, with the Oakland University Credit Union as the exclusive presenting partner.
Special guests for these highly anticipated performances include the acclaimed singer/songwriter Dan Bern. The venues chosen for this tour will provide an ideal setting for Daltrey’s acoustic interpretations of his extensive catalog, supported by a hand-picked ensemble of musicians. The band includes Simon Townshend on guitar, Billy Nicholls on mandolin, Jody Linscott on percussion, Doug Boyle on guitar, John Hogg on bass, Katie Jacoby on violin, Steve Weston on harmonica, Geraint Watkins on keyboards/accordion, and Scott Devours on drums.
Daltrey’s return to the States follows The Who’s successful “The Who Hits Back!” tour in 2022, which received widespread acclaim. The Dallas Morning News praised Daltrey’s performance, noting his energetic stage presence and powerful vocals. In 2018, Daltrey also embarked on a successful solo tour in the U.S., showcasing The Who’s rock opera “Tommy” with full orchestral backing.
Known for his candid and straightforward demeanor, Daltrey, originally from London’s Shepherd’s Bush, will share anecdotes and offer unique renditions of songs rarely performed live by The Who or himself. This upcoming tour will provide fans with an intimate and personal experience, highlighting Who rarities, solo hits, and other songs from Daltrey’s nearly 60-year career.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Daltrey is the Honorary Patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust and co-founder of Teen Cancer America with Pete Townshend. Recently, he contributed harmonica to a historic recording of Mark Knopfler’s “Going Home (Theme From Local Hero),” featuring over 60 renowned rock performers. This special release aims to raise funds for Teen Cancer America and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Roger Daltrey’s illustrious career includes induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Who in 1990 and a Lifetime Achievement award from the Grammy Foundation in 2001. Alongside Pete Townshend, he received Kennedy Center Honors in 2008. Daltrey’s distinctive voice has been recognized as one of the greatest in rock history, with Planet Rock listeners voting him the fifth-greatest voice in music.
Daltrey has also made a mark as an actor and film producer, with roles in various films, theatre productions, and television shows. He has released ten solo studio albums, including acclaimed works like “Daltrey,” “Ride a Rock Horse,” “One of the Boys,” and the 2018 release “As Long As I Have You.” His solo hits include “I’m Free,” “Giving It All Away,” “Without Your Love,” “Free Me,” and “After the Fire.” His solo work has been compiled into two anthologies, “Martyrs and Madmen” (1997) and “Moonlighting” (2005). In 2004, Queen Elizabeth awarded him a CBE for his contributions to music and charity.
Daltrey’s upcoming tour promises to be a memorable experience for fans, offering a rare opportunity to see the rock legend in a more intimate setting. With a career spanning nearly six decades, Daltrey continues to captivate audiences with his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. This tour is a testament to his enduring legacy and his commitment to sharing his music with fans around the world.
