The Who have played that previously reported special gig at Leeds University, kicking off their European and US tour by recreating the legendary gig they played at the college venue back in 1970. Surviving founder members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend also unveiled a plaque at the university to commemorate the original gig, which was recorded for the band's classic Live At Leeds album, considered by some to be one of the best live albums of all time.
The idea for the plaque, and to recreate the 1970 gig after its unveiling, came from BBC radio presenter Andy Kershaw, who was entertainments secretary at the university in the early eighties. He contacted the band's manager, Bill Curbishley, with the idea, and reports that Curbishley said "they'll do it" before he'd even finished explaining his proposal.
Speaking at the unveiling, Townshend told reporters: "It's so great to be back. I haven't been here for ages and I love it in Leeds", while Daltrey added: "Without those unions to play, the venues were thin on the ground, so my big thanks to Leeds and the others for being there."