Overview

• Zak Starkey, The Who's drummer since 1996 and son of Ringo Starr, has been dismissed for the second time in a month, just ahead of the band's North American farewell tour.
• Guitarist Pete Townshend announced the decision on Instagram, citing a need for change and wishing Starkey well with his other projects.
• Starkey disputes the band's statement, claiming he was fired and asked to publicly state he quit, which he refused, calling the claim a lie.
• Tensions between Starkey and the band reportedly began during March's Royal Albert Hall charity shows, where onstage issues led to his initial firing in April.
• Scott Devours, who has worked with Roger Daltrey's solo band, will replace Starkey for The Who's 'The Song Is Over' farewell tour starting August 16 in Florida.