Roger Daltrey, the iconic frontman of The Who, captivated fans at the Royal Albert Hall on March 27, 2025, during the band’s first performance of the year as part of the Teenage Cancer Trust concert series. At 81, Daltrey delivered a heartfelt message, revealing to the audience that he is "going blind," a poignant moment that underscored the evening's emotional depth.
As he adjusted his in-ear monitors, Daltrey candidly shared, "The problem with this job is that you go deaf, and now I’ve been told I am going blind." This reference to Tommy Walker, the deaf and blind protagonist from The Who’s 1969 rock opera, resonated with the audience, many of whom have followed the band through decades of music. Daltrey humorously added, "Thank God I've still got my voice. If I lose that I'll go full Tommy!"
The concert, which featured a setlist packed with classics such as "I Can’t Explain," "Substitute," and "Who Are You," was more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It was a celebration of resilience, community, and the ongoing mission of the Teenage Cancer Trust, which Daltrey founded in 2000. Over the years, the charity has raised an impressive £34 million to support young people facing cancer.
During the performance, Daltrey dedicated the song "I Can See For Miles" to a 19-year-old woman battling stage 4 Ewing sarcoma, highlighting the personal connections between the band and the charity's mission. "To meet that woman, and the energy in her, knowing what she had, knowing she was having chemo over Christmas - what a wonderful way to spend it - but she was fantastic," he said, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis. "It’s nothing to do with money - just do your job and recognize it."
Guitarist Pete Townshend, who turns 80 in May, also expressed gratitude to the audience, stating, "Great to be back at the Royal Albert Hall doing this Teenage Cancer Trust thing again. We couldn’t do this without you. We could try but it wouldn’t raise much money." His remarks echoed the sentiment of unity and support that permeated the evening.
The Who’s setlist was a masterclass in rock history, featuring an array of anthems that spanned their career. The night opened with a powerful rendition of "I Can’t Explain," followed by "The Kids Are Alright" and "Baba O’Riley." The crowd was on their feet, singing along to the familiar tunes, creating an electric atmosphere that only a live performance can generate.
One of the highlights of the evening was the first live performance of "Love Ain’t For Keeping" since 2004, a track from their acclaimed album "Who’s Next." This rare airing delighted long-time fans and showcased the band’s ability to surprise and engage their audience.
As the concert progressed, Daltrey’s voice remained remarkably powerful, even as he acknowledged the challenges of aging. "The joys of getting old mean you go deaf, I also now have got the joy of going blind," he quipped, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. His charisma and stage presence were undiminished, proving that while time may take its toll, the spirit of rock and roll remains alive and well.
The evening culminated with a surprise acoustic rendition of "Tea & Theatre" from their 2006 album "Endless Wire." This poignant closing number brought a reflective tone to the concert, reminding everyone of the band's journey and the connections forged through music.
As Daltrey and Townshend took their bows, the audience erupted in applause, a testament to the enduring legacy of The Who and their commitment to supporting young cancer patients through the Teenage Cancer Trust. The band will return to the Royal Albert Hall for a second concert on March 30, 2025, further solidifying their dedication to this important cause.
The Who's performance was not just a concert; it was a celebration of life, resilience, and the power of music to bring people together for a noble cause. For those in attendance, it was a night to remember, filled with emotional highs and the raw energy that only The Who can deliver.
