The Who… Exactly! Norwich music photographer captures iconic performance from front of stage
The chance to hone the cameras onto Roger Daltrey and Pete Townsend as they headline with the ROYAL PHILHARMONIC CONCERT ORCHESTRA would be a good assignment
But the chance for a Norwich Music Photography Business to capture the shots on their own doorstep and on the Royal Sandringham Estate, was always going to be one of the Blanc Creative’s Music highlights of 2023.
Norwich Music Photographer Lee Blanchflower had been on site all weekend capturing the huge crowds who flocked to see the likes of Robbie Williams, Mark Owen and The Lightning Seeds on the Royal Estate.
The momentous outdoor summer show was special finale to their 2023 The Who Hits Back! UK tour, and was part of the first extensive live music events to be held at the Royal Sandringham Estate, presented by Heritage Live.
The concert would be made even more memorable by the appearance of Richard Ashcrfoft, special guest and support act for the evening.
It would be the only show on their 2023 tour that saw The Who perform alongside the iconic Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.
Imagery;Norwich Music Photographer, Lee Blanchflower
In a stunning display of timeless talent and energy, Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey and band performed a lively set, of music from throughout the band’s nearly 60-year career, including sections devoted to cla
sic albums Tommy and Quadrophenia as well as other beloved Who tracks.
They included songs from their 2019 WHO album, their first studio release in 13 years, captivated audiences with a spectacular performance that defied the years, set against the majestic scenery of a royal estate in Norfolk.
While Robbie Williams may have initially drawn the crowds over the weekend, by the time Bank Holiday Monday rolled around, it was clear that the legendary British rock band, led by Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, had effortlessly claimed the spotlight.
At this noteworthy event, The Who demonstrated that age holds no barrier to delivering a powerful and dynamic show.
The band, originating from the vibrant music scene of the mid-1960s, treated fans to a memorable performance that felt as fresh and electrifying as ever.
Daltrey, clad in his iconic white shirt, blue jeans, and sunglasses, commanded the stage with the confidence and charisma of a performer in his prime, his powerful voice soaring as he masterfully swung his microphone with the finesse of a seasoned performer.
Pete Townshend, ever the showman, complemented Daltrey’s vigorous performance with his own, dressed in a blue jacket, his signature dark shades, and a hat.
His guitar playing was nothing short of mesmerizing, his arms twirling with the energy and passion of a man possessed, delivering solo after solo that left the audience spellbound.
The concert, which lasted for an impressive two hours, saw The Who delve into their extensive repertoire of hits, backed by the Heart of England Philharmonic Orchestra.
The ensemble, which included Zak Starkey on drums, added a rich, full-bodied sound that elevated the performance.
Classics like “Pinball Wizard,” “The Kids Are Alright,” “You Better You Bet,” “Substitute,” “I Can’t Explain,” and the anthem “My Generation” were just some of the hits that had the crowd singing along.
Each song a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and musical prowess.
Despite acknowledging their advancing years, with Daltrey humorously noting their near dependence on hearing aids, the band’s performance was anything but a nod to nostalgia.
Instead, it was a vibrant, living proof of their continuing relevance and undiminished skill.
Townshend’s brief departure to adjust his hearing aid did little to dampen the spirit; it only added to the authenticity and relatability of the show.
The Who’s appearance at Sandringham was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of rock ‘n’ roll’s lasting legacy, a demonstration that true talent and passion are ageless.
On a beautiful Bank Holiday Monday, Daltrey, Townshend, and the rest of the band not only entertained but also reminded everyone of the power of music to unite, inspire, and thrill, regardless of the era.
This performance by The Who was not just a walk down memory lane but a vibrant showcase of their ongoing musical journey, proving once and for all that they indeed still “have it.”
About Richard Ashcroft
We simply cannot forget Richard Ashcroft who gave an amazing performance as the main support act.
Richard Ashcroft, a celebrated figure in British music, has distinguished himself not only as a two-time Ivor Novello Award recipient, achieving Songwriter of the Year in 1998 and Outstanding Contribution to British Music in 2019, but also through his successful solo career.
He has released a series of solo albums that have consistently charted in the Top 5, including his chart-topping debut, “Alone With Everybody,” and, more recently, his #2 charting album “Acoustic Hymns” from last year.
Ashcroft initially gained fame as the lead vocalist of The Verve, a band that played a pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape of their time.
Their album “Urban Hymns” not only stands as one of the era’s most significant releases but also ranks as the UK’s 18th best-selling album of all time.
The Verve’s catalog includes timeless anthems such as ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, ‘Bittersweet Symphony’, ‘Lucky Man’, and ‘Sonnet’, which continue to be highlights of Ashcroft’s live performances, testament to their enduring appeal and his lasting impact on the music industry.
Why not head over to the More than Just Music Home Page where you’ll find a spectacular portfolio from Lee Blanchflower, a well known Norwich Music Photographer with a glittering career shooting the worlds biggest music artists and international
