The Black Keys’ drummer, Patrick Carney, has hinted that an explanation for the band’s recent issues is on the horizon. In a post on X, Carney shared a brief but telling message with fans: “We got f—ed. I’ll let you all know how so it doesn’t happen to you. Stay tuned.” This cryptic note follows a series of headlines that have suggested turmoil for the Ohio-born duo.
Late last month, the band announced a significant change in their tour plans, opting to cancel their scheduled arena tour in favor of more intimate venues. However, the dates for these new shows have yet to be revealed. Just last week, the band also disclosed that they had parted ways with their management team, which was led by entertainment executive Irving Azoff. Azoff confirmed the news to Variety, describing the split as an “amicable parting.” The Black Keys had been managed by Azoff and Steve Moir since 2021. While a representative for Azoff declined to comment, a representative for Moir did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Irving Azoff is a well-known figure in the music industry, having managed iconic bands like the Eagles and served as the former CEO of Ticketmaster and chairman of its parent company, Live Nation. Another group connected to Azoff, Oak View Group, has been implicated in the U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation. The complaint alleges that Oak View Group, a live entertainment advisory service co-founded by Azoff, had a relationship with Live Nation that unduly influenced the market. Although Azoff is no longer listed as an executive at Oak View Group and is not directly named in the lawsuit, his connections have raised eyebrows.
Azoff’s reputation in the industry is one of aggressive negotiation tactics. The L.A. Times reported that Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker once said they hired Azoff because he “impressed us with his taste for the jugular … and his bizarre spirit.” Similarly, at their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Eagles co-founder Don Henley remarked, “As I’ve said before, he may be Satan — but he’s our Satan.”
In addition to the Eagles, Azoff has managed other legendary artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Journey, Bon Jovi, and Steely Dan. His approach to management has often been described as bare-knuckle, a style that has earned him both respect and criticism within the industry.
The Black Keys’ decision to downgrade their tour and split from their management team has left fans and industry insiders speculating about the underlying reasons. Carney’s promise to reveal more details suggests that there may be more to the story than meets the eye. As fans await further information, the band’s recent moves have certainly sparked a wave of curiosity and concern.
The Black Keys have been a staple in the rock music scene for years, known for their gritty sound and dynamic performances. The recent changes in their tour plans and management have undoubtedly caused a stir, but the band remains committed to their music and their fans. As Carney hinted, more information will be shared in due time, shedding light on the challenges they have faced and how they plan to move forward.
For now, fans are left to speculate and stay tuned for the promised explanation. The Black Keys’ journey has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, and this latest chapter is no exception. As the band navigates these changes, their resilience and dedication to their craft continue to shine through.
