Meta Description: Roger Daltrey of The Who criticizes the internet’s impact on live performances, claiming it ruins the element of surprise at concerts. Discover his views on set lists and audience behavior.
The Who’s Roger Daltrey has expressed his disdain for the internet, claiming it has negatively affected live performances. As the rock veteran prepares to embark on a solo tour across North America, he shares his thoughts on how the internet has changed the concert experience.
Roger Daltrey on the Internet’s Impact on Concerts
Daltrey believes the internet has ruined the live music experience, making gigs feel less spontaneous. In a recent interview, The Who frontman stated that audiences “forget about surprises” because they look up set lists before attending shows. “Too many people reveal songs,” he told Billboard, “There’s no surprises left with concerts these days, cause everybody wants to see the setlist.”
Daltrey’s Frustration with Predictable Set Lists
Daltrey’s frustration stems from fans knowing what songs will be played beforehand. “I’m fucking sick of it. The internet’s ruined the live shows for me. Who wants to know what’s coming next? People forget about surprises. I can’t stand it,” he vented.
While Daltrey is not pleased with the predictability of modern concerts, he did share one song he will be performing on his tour: The Who’s classic anthem, “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” However, fans should not expect the iconic scream from the original recording. “I’m not gonna do the scream,” Daltrey explained. “I’m gonna get the fucking audience to do the scream. I’ve done that scream for 55 years, and I’ve had enough of it.”
Adjusting to Age and Audience Participation
At 80 years old, Daltrey prefers to focus on singing rather than straining his vocal cords with the famous scream. “I don’t even want to try it now,” he admitted. “It’s brutal on the vocal cords. They can do the scream, and I’ll do everything else. I’m more into singing these days. At the age of 80, I think I deserve to be.”
The Broader Issue with Internet at Gigs
Daltrey is not alone in his criticism of the internet’s impact on live shows. Artists like Jack White, Mitski, and Placebo have implemented no-phone policies at their concerts to prevent fans from recording and sharing videos and photos.
Daltrey’s Views on Avatar Shows
Recently, Daltrey also dismissed the idea of The Who following in ABBA Voyage’s footsteps with an avatar show. “I’ve never thought about it. I wouldn’t want to go and see it,” he remarked.
