In February 1994, Roger Daltrey, the iconic frontman of The Who, celebrated his 50th birthday with a remarkable two-night concert at New York City’s Carnegie Hall, titled A Celebration: The Music of Pete Townshend and The Who. This event, which quickly became the fastest sell-out in the venue’s history, featured a star-studded lineup, including Sinéad O’Connor, The Chieftains, Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, Eddie Vedder, and others .
One of the standout performances of the evening was a unique rendition of “Baba O’Riley,” where Daltrey was joined by Sinéad O’Connor and the traditional Irish band, The Chieftains. The Juilliard Orchestra, under the direction of Michael Kamen, provided a rich orchestral backdrop, blending rock and classical elements seamlessly . O’Connor’s haunting vocals added a new dimension to the classic track, while The Chieftains infused it with Celtic instrumentation, creating a fusion that was both innovative and deeply moving.
This performance was part of a larger effort to raise funds for Columbia Presbyterian Babies Hospital and was later released on a live album and DVD, though O’Connor’s contributions were only included in the video release . The collaboration remains a testament to the versatility of The Who’s music and the power of cross-genre partnerships.
On March 24, 2024, the Royal Albert Hall in London hosted a memorable performance as Roger Daltrey concluded his 24-year tenure as curator of the Teenage Cancer Trust concert series. The evening’s highlight was a powerful rendition of The Who’s classic “Baba O’Riley,” featuring an ensemble of renowned artists: Robert Plant (Led Zeppelin), Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam), Kelly Jones (Stereophonics), and Glen Hansard (The Swell Season, The Frames) .
Consequence
This performance was part of the “Ovation” concert, celebrating Daltrey’s significant contributions to the Teenage Cancer Trust over the years . The setlist for the evening included a mix of covers and classics, culminating in the collaborative performance of “Baba O’Riley” . The audience was treated to a unique blend of voices and styles, with each artist bringing their distinct flair to the iconic song.
The concert not only showcased the enduring appeal of “Baba O’Riley” but also underscored the collaborative spirit of the music community in support of a noble cause. Daltrey’s commitment to the Teenage Cancer Trust has left an indelible mark, and this performance served as a fitting tribute to his legacy.
For those interested in experiencing this special performance, fan-shot videos are available online, capturing the energy and emotion of the night.