"Pete Townshend reveals health struggles involving OxyContin, discussing his past battles prior to The Who's final performance"
Pete Townshend on The Who's Farewell Tour and Future Plans
Pete Townshend, a founding member of the iconic rock band The Who, is currently on their 'The Song Is Over' tour in North America. The tour marks a significant chapter in the band's history, as it is being billed as their farewell tour.
Townshend, who has a history of alcohol and narcotic addiction, has been clean for over 30 years. However, an early-year knee operation led him to a re-addiction to painkillers. He has since sought help and is now on the path to recovery, expressing that he is currently feeling really good.
The road to recovery was not easy for Townshend. He shared that he went through a period of feeling very depressed. During this time, he sought help from a close friend who works at a recovery clinic in Spain. The name of this friend is John Entwistle, another member of The Who.
Despite the challenges, Townshend is determined to make the most of the tour. He admitted that he does not wish to spend the next five years of his life waiting to drop dead on stage. However, he also expressed his reluctance to spend extended time away from his family, studios, dogs, and friends during the tour.
The future of The Who's touring career, according to Townshend, is in the hands of the band's lead singer, Roger. While the tour is currently limited to North America, The Who may have a contractual obligation to extend it beyond this continent. If they do, they may consider playing important venues they have left off the list, such as Duluth.
After the tour ends, Townshend plans to experiment with "some one-man shows". These shows would allow him to explore new creative avenues and perhaps provide a more intimate connection with his audience.
As for his relationship with Roger Daltrey, Townshend hopes that it will not necessitate continued communication after the tour ends. However, he did not rule out the possibility of collaborating on future projects.
Townshend's addiction to painkillers has been linked to the common way rock stars die, specifically OxyContin. He has been open about his struggles and hopes that his story can serve as a warning to others in the industry.
In conclusion, Pete Townshend is currently on The Who's farewell tour, navigating the challenges of performing while maintaining his sobriety. He is looking forward to the future, both in terms of his solo work and his personal life, and is determined to make the most of every moment.
