Third annual VH1 Rock Honors to pay tribute to The Who; surviving members to perform together

Mar 25, 08 1:15 PM CDT AP Worldstream

The VH1 music network holds The Who in such high regard that the rock group is the only act being honored at its upcoming Rock Honors.

Now in its third year, the Rock Honors typically celebrate a handful of momentous rock groups and artists: previous honorees have included ZZ Top, Genesis, Kiss and Queen.

But this year, only the Who will be celebrated during the two-hour broadcast, to be taped July 12 in Los Angeles and aired on the network July 17. The group, which now consists of surviving members Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend, is due to perform along with other acts who will pay tribute to the legendary band.

"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, VH1's executive vice president and general manager.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers came to prominence in the 1960s with hits like "The Kids Are Alright," "My Generation," and created the groundbreaking rock opera "Tommy."

Drummer Keith Moon died of an overdose of prescription drugs in 1978, and bass guitarist John Entwistle was found dead of a heart attack in a Las Vegas hotel room in 2002.