Townshend 'going deaf'

From: BBC, UK - 12 Dec 2002

Rock legend Pete Townshend is going deaf after 40 years in the music industry, according to a report.

The Who guitarist, once known for smashing up his instrument on stage, told The Sun his hearing had worsened since the band's US tour earlier this year.

"The recent return to touring and to me playing electric guitar - albeit more quietly than in the 1970s - led to further deterioration of my hearing," the paper quoted Townshend, 57, as saying.

"I am unable to perform with in-ear monitors. In fact, they increase the often unbearable tinnitus I suffer after shows."

© BBC