45 years ago this week, on May 2nd, 1979, the iconic Rainbow Theater in London was buzzing with anticipation. The Who were about to play their first show with a new member, Kenney Jones, on drums. This big change came eight months after the untimely death of their original drummer, Keith Moon. The last time Jones and Moon were together was on September 6th, 1978, at a party thrown by Paul McCartney in London, celebrating the opening of “The Buddy Holly Story.”
Jones' entry into the band was met with mixed feelings. Roger Daltrey had reservations about Jones' fit in the band, a sentiment Jones himself agreed with. Jones said, “I would have given anything not to have joined The Who. You know, I would have given anything for Moonie to still be there. There is only one drummer for The Who — and that’s Keith Moon. And that’s the way it will always be."
Despite his initial reluctance, Jones acknowledged the unique experience of being part of The Who. He said, "But I did enjoy the opportunity. It was different, it was great. It was exciting. You know, like The Small Faces was the most creative band I’ve been in, the Faces was the most fun, and The Who — I have to say — was the most exciting.” Since Jones' departure, only two other drummers, Simon Phillips and Zak Starkey, have played with The Who, but neither were made official members. Interestingly, Starkey's godfather was none other than Keith Moon.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]