Zak Starkey has recently parted ways with his band, The Who, given 30 years of his life, drumming the best beats ruthlessly. A talented musician, just like his father, Ringo Starr. Zak created a respectable career but didn’t achieve massive global success like Ringo, which has much to do with the band’s failure to attract an international audience.
Unlike the Beatles, The Who embraced a louder, more aggressive sound, often blending rock with theatrical storytelling. Hypnotizing and captivating fans with their innovative performances. Quite often generously praised for their ability to push the boundaries of rock music while inspiring other artists.
Besides music, their wardrobe has been quite impressive and influential. Started off with sharp suits but transitioned their attire into a blend of modernity and rebellious edge, reflecting their energetic performances.
So, in this blog, we’ll dissect the band’s wardrobe, specifically Zak Starkey. Understanding this fashion sense along with the rhythm.
A Brief History Of British Rock
Britain is the hub of all the greatest rock bands, from the Beatles and the Rolling Stones to Pink Floyd and many others. It all began in the 1960s, where all the key elements took place, such as the British Invasion, Punk rock and Post-Punk, each molding the British Rock genre.
The British invasion was the time when The Beatles, Rolling Stones and The Kinks led the movement with a significant punch, pushing the impact of British Rock and roll to the United States and worldwide. The early version of British rock had elements of blues and skiffle influences. The British rock invasion spread fast and wide globally.
Then came punk rock, challenging mainstream rock. Bands like Sex Pistols and The Clash emerged as a direct reaction against early rock. It adopted an unfiltered attitude, playing with more raw emotions and sounds. Characterized by fast-paced songs, distorted guitar riffs and shouted vocals.
The post-punk era pushed the boundaries of rock much further, becoming an amalgamation of art rock, new wave and other genres. The Ramones offered a mix of fast-paced songs with an influence of pop-punk.
The Who stood at the center of it all, tearing norms with electric guitar riffs. From smashing guitars to wearing tailored suits, The Who didn’t make music; they made a statement.
We can clearly say that the Ringo Star legacy did not rest; it continues through Zak, pulsating on stage. It echoes in this wardrobe style through every vintage stitch.
Zak Starkey: Retro Roots with Rockstar Edge
Iconic Classic
Although Zak had a stellar career, he was humble in his dressing; however, with the progression, he took on different styles that took on a more fashionable approach. His wardrobe is like a classic heaven, consisting of suits, blazers, to anything that shouts iconic. But in one of his stage visits, he showed up in a Dad outfit with a punch of style – it really resonated with his down-to-earth vibe. But what’s more surprising is that Zak carried the dad-look pretty well, especially with that Moptop. He truly reflects his father’s essence in this outfit, but Ringo had more rhythmic complexities in his clothing.
The outfit comprised a wide-neck charcoal wool sweater, a striped pattern shirt, a flap collar, and denim jeans. Pairing his ensemble with brown leather boots adds a bit of ruggedness to the whole soft look.
A Polka Dot Outfit
Most of Zak Starkey outfits are hugely inspired by Keith Moon, a former drummer of The Who. However, this polka dot shirt resembles Ringo’s star outfit from 1968, where he wore a strikingly red outfit for the press for the music video, Yellow Submarine. Comparing that one to this one, there is just a difference in color, but the vibe is the same. Zak’s outfit is made up of a black and white polka dot shirt, chinos pants and leather boots accessorized with a belt.
Vintage Influence
When the band wore sharper suits, this Zak Starkey pinstripe suit was just a chef’s kiss. It refers to a specific style of mod-inspired pinstripe suit linked with the 60s. The suit is immaculate with a slim fit silhouette and a classic pinstripe pattern, featuring details like a felt-trimmed undercollar on the jacket and flat-fronted trousers. It is that, aside from his drumming skills and his legendary association, this pinstripe suit solidified his iconic status.
Thunderbolt Look
https://people.com/ringo-starr-son-zak-starkey-suffers-blood-clot-leg-8778434
There may be no rock star in history who has had a bigger variety of onstage looks than Zak. His stunning yellow clothing looks colorful, lavish, outrageous and memorable. It isn’t glam rock. It’s not David Bowie level; it’s just something that fits perfectly well with the enthralling feel of drumming. The half-sleeved bright yellow hooded shirt with matching shorts. The vibe on stage is electric, and this outfit perfectly captures the moment filled with energy.
Zak Starkey: Dressing to the Rhythm
Associated with significantly popular icons and bands, but it’s his true talent as a drummer that made his career reach insane heights. During his time playing with The Who, the star captured the nuances of the energy of the band’s music. He did it so well that he got the name “karmic Keith Moon”.
The way Zak played with his drums deeply resonated with the band’s sound– it almost felt like he fit like a puzzle in the band. The way he effortlessly adapted to the complex band requirements was phenomenal. Thirty years of drumming non-stop, giving one after another banging performance, Zak created an extraordinary appeal with the audience, garnering massive fandom and recognition. His presence in the band has shaped the modern-day The Who, defining them as we know them today!
His wardrobe is as dynamic as it should have been with the changing era, but every outfit reflected a sense of individual expression with a hint of inspiration, representing who he is and what people saw him as. With many big names attached to his name, he was still adamant about creating a name for himself. Known by millions for his skills and style, it goes without saying that Zak Starkey has contributed significantly to the rock fashion.
