Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend are back at it again as The Who on their 2016 North American Tour. I had the privilege of being able to see them live over 50 years after they made their introduction to the world as The Who in 1964.

In 1966 came the fresh faced mods new to the music scene with their slightly awkward swagger and pouty faces. Fifty years later in 2016 comes the hard rocking vocals of Daltrey and unmatched confidence of Townshend. Neither of which show any signs of age.

Back in ‘66 it was evident that the band hadn’t had much experience in stage performances due to the fact that Daltrey tended to stay in one place on stage and attempt to bring some life to the performance with what I can only describe as a little jig all while Townshend and original bassist John Entwistle tended to do the same. The one who really brought the energy in the beginning was original drummer Keith Moon whose rapid fire drumming could get anybody out of their seat.

However, Daltrey and Townshend both have brought their energy back to the stage in 2016 with Daltrey’s signature rock and roll yell and Townshend’s iconic windmill strumming. Although nobody smashed their instruments, Daltrey made sure to swing around his microphone, even putting it in his mouth a few times,  bring life to the show with his charisma and showmanship.

Although what was truly amazing is how well Daltrey’s voice has held up over the years. At 72 years old, that man can still belt out the famous scream in ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ (or also the scream that opens C.S.I. Miami) as if it were 1971.

It almost seems as if their shows have improved since 1966. Of course with the new millennium comes new technological advancements such as lights, better sound and the ability to see the performance even better than before, but the performers themselves seem to have grown more accustomed to being on stage and have let loose.

Daltrey and Townshend have both seemed to have grown more comfortable being on stage all while staying true to how they were 50 years ago. Townshend still has the same sarcastic sense of humor and foul mouth, and Daltrey has stayed consistent in his gratuity to their fans.

The only thing to really change about the band is their attire. In ‘66 it was at the peak of the mod fashion and very reminiscent of the ‘60s. In the ‘70s they seemed to let loose with bare chests and fringe beyond belief. Although instead of continuing the trend of more intense fashion, the two have gone more casual with classic blue jeans button-up shirts.

Despite their age, the band hasn’t really seemed to have changed. Sure they aren’t in their 20s anymore, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t put on a good show. Even with Townshend’s hearing problems he sounded phenomenal. It really was one of those once in a lifetime opportunities I’m so lucky to have experienced.

by LINDSAY LUCAS