Pete Townshend, 61, the lead guitarist and creative force for classic rock band the Who, truly is a “huge fan” of the TV drama “CSI” that has borrowed his songs — not to mention the way “Alias” makes him “literally start to jump up and down in excitement.”

He’s also smitten with the Flaming Lips and crime novels.

And he’s willing to admit that keeping the Who relevant has only gotten harder through the years, as evidenced by the 24-year lag between studio albums — from 1982’s “It’s Hard” until this year’s “Endless Wire.”

In the middle of the Who’s tour that hits Des Moines today, Townshend answered a set of questions via laptop, several submitted by readers through DesMoinesRegister.com/Munson …

Q: Many fans seem to assume that you’re all but deaf. How are your inner ears? A: They couldn’t be more wrong but it is understandable. In the early ’70s I was diagnosed with premature hearing damage, that was slight. However, I spoke of it and dealt with it very seriously. As a result of my action I saved my hearing. I can hear pretty well for a man of my age.

Q: What is widely misunderstood/

See TOWNSHEND, Page 6B

Inventor of concert antics Pete Townshend comes to Iowa.

Concert details WHO: The Who, moe. WHEN: 7:30 tonight WHERE: Wells Fargo Arena, 730 Third St., Des Moines TICKETS: $178, $88, $68, $48 through www.dahlstickets.com, by calling (866) 553-2457 or in person at the arena box office and metro area Dahl’s food stores. BLOCK PARTY: A pre-concert block party starts at 4 p.m. on Center Street with games (pinball included), trivia and entertainment. PRE-PARTY: An exclusive pre-party from 5 to 7 p.m. in Hy-Vee Hall will feature the Sonny Humbucker Band. Tickets cost $132.95 (or $44.95 if you already purchased a concert ticket) and include an open bar and smorgasbord and a “limited edition gift.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO