Scott Devours, the newly appointed drummer for The Who, has broken his silence regarding his unexpected and controversial role in replacing longtime drummer Zak Starkey. In a heartfelt message to fans, Devours acknowledged the weight of expectations and the legacy he’s stepping into.
The change in the band’s lineup followed a tumultuous series of events. Zak Starkey, who had been with The Who for 29 years, was reportedly dismissed due to health issues and internal conflicts. Following a brief rehiring, Starkey was allegedly asked to lie and say he had quit before being let go again. Fans, many of whom had grown deeply attached to his calm yet energetic presence behind the kit, were furious over his treatment.
Starkey’s contributions to The Who over nearly three decades made him a beloved figure in the band’s storied history. His understated charisma and powerful drumming style made a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Now, stepping into an unenviable position, Scott Devours—who has played with Roger Daltrey’s solo band—faces the daunting task of winning over a skeptical fan base. Aware of the sensitivity surrounding the transition, Devours took to social media to address the situation:
“I’m sure there are many fans who will not accept me or anyone on that throne except for Zak. I know that this will be the case for some and I acknowledge that. For others, perhaps the jury is still out. Maybe I’ll need to let the music do the talking? In my world, there are no bigger shoes to fill than those behind Pete and Roger.”
Devours expressed deep respect for the drumming giants who preceded him—not only Starkey, but also Kenney Jones, Simon Phillips, and the legendary Keith Moon. He emphasized the gravity of the role and the reverence he feels for the band’s legacy:
“The weight of this responsibility is enormous, and I am feeling every ounce of it. What I want to say to all of the fans is that I will do everything I can to honor the legacy of The Who, Zak, Kenney Jones, Simon Phillips, and the memory of the great Keith Moon. For my name to even be mentioned in a sentence like that literally sends shivers down my spine, and I know I need to earn this honor.”
With The Who’s upcoming U.S. tour marking what could be the final chapter in the band’s touring career, Devours promised to give everything he has to ensure the performances live up to the band’s iconic reputation:
“Since this is the last time Pete and Roger will be touring the US, playing the greatest songs ever written, I will be giving them every second of my time, every beat of my heart, and every drop of my sweat and blood. This is my ultimate goal. But this tour isn’t about me or anyone other than The Who, which IS Pete and Roger. I will give them everything I have and the rest is soon to be history.”
Though fan reactions remain mixed, Devours’ message reflects a sincere commitment to honoring the band’s enduring legacy and proving himself through his performance. Whether fans ultimately embrace him remains to be seen, but Devours is clearly ready to give his all—one beat at a time.
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