The Who to Take Final Bow with ‘This Song Is Over’ Farewell Tour Across North America
After decades of shaping rock music with thunderous performances, iconic lyrics, and unforgettable energy, The Who is officially preparing to close the curtain on their storied career. The band’s two surviving original members, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, announced Thursday that their final North American tour, aptly named “This Song Is Over”, will span 16 shows from August 16 to September 28, 2025.
The name of the farewell tour draws from the 1971 track “This Song Is Over,” featured on their landmark album Who’s Next—a symbolic nod to a musical journey that has defined generations. It marks a full-circle moment for a band that first declared its farewell back in 1982, only to reunite and continue performing for over four more decades.
A Legacy Nearing Its Final Chord
In a heartfelt statement, guitarist and songwriter Pete Townshend acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision. “Well, all good things must come to an end. It is a poignant time,” Townshend said. “For me, playing to American audiences and those in Canada has always been incredible… I must say that although the road has not always been enjoyable for me, it is usually easy: the best job I could ever have had. I keep coming back. Every time I do, I meet new fans and feel new energy.”
He emphasized that both he and Daltrey are in good health and optimistic about sharing their music one last time. Townshend’s words hinted at both nostalgia and fulfillment—a career that has, despite turbulence, given him purpose and passion.
Daltrey Reflects on the End of an Era
Frontman Roger Daltrey echoed similar sentiments. Known for his powerhouse vocals and commanding stage presence, Daltrey admitted that ending this chapter of his life is no simple feat.
“It’s not easy to end the big part of my life that touring with The Who has been,” he said. “America always represented possibilities to me. Every time we’ve visited, I’ve soaked in the culture, the people, the energy. Thanks for being there for us, and I look forward to seeing you one last time.”
A Tour Decades in the Making
Ironically, this upcoming farewell comes over 40 years after their first “farewell tour” in 1982, a tour that became legendary not just for its performances, but for how quickly the band resumed playing together. Seven years later, in 1989, The Who was back—continuing to tour, release music, and perform at landmark events such as the Olympics and charity concerts.
This time, however, appears to be different. With both Townshend and Daltrey in their 80s by the time the tour concludes, this truly feels like the last ride for one of rock’s most enduring and influential acts.
What to Expect
While no detailed setlist has been revealed, fans can expect a blend of The Who’s iconic classics—such as “Baba O’Riley,” “My Generation,” “Pinball Wizard,”and “Behind Blue Eyes”—as well as deeper cuts that span their career. The tour is likely to celebrate the band’s impact not just on rock, but on popular culture and music history as a whole.
Ticket Information
Tickets for The Who’s “This Song Is Over” Tour will go on sale to the public next week, with presale options available to fan club members and select platforms. Venues include stops in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Chicago, and Dallas.
As they prepare to take their final bow, The Who leaves behind a legacy of boundary-pushing music, revolutionary stagecraft, and raw emotion. This farewell tour is not just a goodbye—it’s a celebration of everything The Who has stood for: rebellion, introspection, innovation, and the enduring power of rock and roll.
Fans, new and old, now have one last chance to witness a band that changed music forever.