Pearl Jam, playing a rare club gig last night at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire, wowed the 2,000 seat venue with a rip-roaring set, of classics, new songs and b-sides But the biggest surprise was the covers. When the band ripped into Dylan’s “All Along The Watchtower”, Ronnie Wood rolled out on stage to join the band for what we hear was an incredible rendition. Also appearing was Simon Townsend, Pete’s older brother, as Pearl Jam launched into The Who’s “The Real Me” (check the short clip above). Pearl Jam continues their short jaunt through Europe, up next is Rotterdam.
The Who announced that they’ll give all their earnings from an October 21st concert near Detroit to benefit charities in the Motor City. “The first gig we ever played in the U.S. was in Detroit and we have always had an affinity with this part of the country,” Roger Daltrey said. “Pete and I are very aware of the problems people are having in Michigan and feel we should give something back for all the support we have had over the last 40 years.” The Who ask people attending the concert to “Join Together With the Band” and contribute to the charities as well. Rockheap also cares about people in Detroit and urges them to wear flak jackets and helmets while attending The Who shows in Detroit.
Remember when The Who were The Who? Not the pathetic shell of a once mighty rock behemoth. The VH1 Rock Honors gave us a real bad taste in our mouths. So we’re gonna wash it out with this classic clip of My Generation from Woodstock. Enjoy.
VH-1 honored The Who at the latest incarnation of Rock Honors. This show makes as much sense as MTV’s VMAs, considering both channels have forsaken music for lame ass reality shows. The basic idea behind this garbage is to have some contemporary bands who are Who fans play a few songs, while a couple of douchebag actor’s introduce the acts, and then The Who performs.
While Foo Fighters captured the fierceness of The Who with their set and the Flaming Lips set personified The Who’s theatricality, but let’s be real, the only reason to show up to this party was Pearl Jam. Paying tribute to Quadrophenia, PJ ripped throw Love Reign o’er Me and The Real Me. They proved yet again why they are the heir apparent to The Who and why they are the greatest rock band out today.
According to The Who’s website, Pete & Roger and the 67 other musicians who accompany them on stage will be launching a fall tour. The tour kicks off at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit on Oct. 21st. More dates to follow, providing Pete & Roger don’t kick the crap out of each other first. The Who were recently honored by VH-1 during their annual “Rock Honors” award show. Look for commentary on Rockheap after the show airs on July 17th on VH-1 and M-HD at 9pm.
