The Black Keys have inked a new management deal with Red Light Management, just two weeks after their public split with previous managers Irving Azoff and Steve Moir of Full Stop Management. This move follows the abrupt cancellation of their arena tour, which was reportedly due to low ticket sales.
Red Light Management, one of the industry’s largest management companies, was founded by Coran Capshaw and boasts a roster that includes major acts like Dave Matthews Band, the Strokes, and Chris Stapleton. Neither Capshaw nor a representative for the Black Keys immediately responded to requests for comment. Azoff, through a representative, declined to comment on the situation.
The Black Keys had signed with Azoff in 2021 after parting ways with their longtime manager John Peets at Q Prime Management. Azoff, a powerful figure in the music industry, manages high-profile artists such as the Eagles, U2, and John Mayer. Drummer Patrick Carney mentioned to Billboard that they chose Azoff over Capshaw due to his focus on touring and ticket sales.
Earlier this week, Carney took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration, hinting at issues with Azoff. He wrote, “We got fucked. I’ll let you all know how so it doesn’t happen to you. Stay tuned.” He later escalated the situation by retweeting a 2018 tweet from Azoff about non-disparagement clauses, sarcastically thanking him for the advice. Both tweets have since been deleted.
Last month, the band canceled their planned tour of arenas and amphitheaters, stating they wanted to offer a more “intimate experience” for fans. Shortly after, they announced their split with Full Stop Management. A representative for Azoff confirmed the decision, describing it as an “amicable parting.”
The Black Keys’ recent management changes and tour cancellations have sparked discussions about the current state of the live music industry. Despite Live Nation’s optimistic predictions for 2024, some artists and festivals are reportedly struggling with slow ticket sales. This trend raises questions about the broader trajectory of the live music space.
The Black Keys, consisting of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney, have been a significant force in the rock scene since their formation in 2001. They gained popularity with their raw blues rock sound and have won multiple Grammy Awards. Their commercial breakthrough came in 2010 with the album “Brothers,” followed by the successful “El Camino” in 2011.
The band’s recent turmoil highlights the challenges faced by artists in the current live music landscape. Rising operational costs and increased expenses for festivals and concerts have made it difficult for many in the industry. Some venues are even shutting down, and festivals are struggling to stay afloat.
For artists not at the top of the live music sector, these economic factors have made it challenging to sustain their careers. The Black Keys’ decision to rebook their canceled tour in smaller, more intimate venues reflects a broader trend of artists adapting to these new realities.
As the live music industry continues to evolve, the impact of these changes on artists, venues, and promoters will be closely watched. The Black Keys’ new management deal with Red Light Management marks a new chapter for the band as they navigate these uncertain times.
