Who's Next for 'VH1 Rock Honors'

NEW YORK (Map) - NEW YORK, March 25 /PRNewswire/ -- VH1 pays homage to legendary British rock band The Who in the network's third annual "VH1 Rock Honors" celebration of artists who now represent the pinnacle of rock music. As a result of The Who's revolutionary and era-defining influence on rock music, this will be the first "VH1 Rock Honors" that salutes just one band.

Taping in Los Angeles at the Pauley Pavilion on July 12, "VH1 Rock Honors" will premiere on Thursday July 17 at 9pm on VH1, VH1 Classic and MHD. The Who's monumental legacy will be celebrated with a 2 - hour tribute that will salute the music and the lasting impact of this groundbreaking band. The influence of The Who will be felt through spoken tributes, filmed packages and performances by some of today's premiere rock acts as well as the legends themselves. Additional performers, presenters and special guests will be announced as they are confirmed.

"For me, The Who defined the rock era. Their music truly pushed boundaries, connected with millions of rock fans and inspired countless bands to fulfill their own musical destinies," said Tom Calderone, Executive Vice President and General Manager, VH1. "I speak for music fans around the world and say thank you to The Who for their artistry, their vision and their attitude. We can't wait to salute Pete and Roger's legacy in this year's 'VH1 Rock Honors,' an event that will definitely be an amazing journey."

Beginning with their first hit single "I Can't Explain," The Who emerged from Mod-Era London to electrify the world with their unique sound. The music and live performances of Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle and Keith Moon tore through the existing boundaries of rock. The band has recorded 11 remarkable albums, including the world's first rock opera Tommy, and the ensuing masterwork Quadrophenia. The British legends produced some of the most compelling and original music of the era, including the songs, "Won't Get Fooled Again," "Pinball Wizard," "Who Are You" and the immortal "My Generation."

Last year, "VH1 Rock Honors" honored Genesis, Heart, Ozzy Osbourne and ZZ Top with tribute performances by Nickelback, Gretchen Wilson, Keane, Alice in Chains and Queens of the Stone Age. Making special appearances were Cameron Diaz, Jada Pinkett Smith, Billy Bob Thornton, Robin Williams, Criss Angel and Taylor Hawkins.

Check soon for honoree profiles, exclusive online programming, show information and more at VH1.com.

"VH1 Rock Honors" is directed by David Mallet and executive produced by Greg Sills and Lee Rolontz and Rick Krim for VH1. Paul Flattery and Patrizia DiMaria serve as producers with David Wild as co-producer.

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with TV series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 90 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital channels and services including VH1Classic, VH1 Soul, VH1 Mobile, VH1 Games and extensive broadband video on VH1.com. Connect with VH1 at VH1.com.

VH1 is a registered trademark of MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.