In the heart of Akron, Ohio, lies a story of friendship, music, and a basement that changed the course of rock ‘n’ roll. This is the tale of how Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney, two local lads with a passion for music, transformed a basement into the birthplace of one of the most influential bands of the 21st century: The Black Keys.
The Unlikely Beginnings
Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney met in 1996 through mutual friends in high school, but it wasn’t until after graduation that their musical chemistry would truly ignite. Auerbach, with his blues-infused guitar riffs, and Carney’s raw, self-taught drumming, found common ground in their love for vintage rock and blues.
Their journey began in Carney’s basement, equipped with second-hand gear and a DIY spirit. With no formal plan or even the intention to start a band, they began jamming, creating a sound that was both nostalgic and fresh. Here, amidst the chaos of teenage life, the seeds of The Black Keys were sown.
2025 The Black Keys Tour Dates
- 5/23 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Casino & Resort Durant – Grand Theater
- 5/25 – Colorado Springs, CO – Ford Amphitheater
- 5/27 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre
- 5/29 – Bonner, MT – Kettlehouse Amphitheater
- 5/30 – Boise, ID – Outlaw Field at the Idaho Botanical Garden
- 5/31 – Bend, OR – Hayden Homes Amphitheater
- 06/01 – Berkeley, CA – Greek Theatre at UC Berkeley
- 06/03 – Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre
- 06/07 – Austin, TX – Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park
- 06/08 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP
- 06/11 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion
- 06/12 – Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater
- 06/14 – Asbury Park, NJ – Stone Pony Summer Stage
Creating Music on a Shoestring
The duo’s early recordings were as grassroots as they come. With very little money, they recorded their first album, “The Big Come Up,” in Carney’s basement. Using an 8-track cassette recorder, they captured the essence of their music – raw, unpolished, and authentic. This album, released in 2002, was a testament to their do-it-yourself ethos, blending blues with garage rock.
From Basement to Big Stages
Word of mouth and the burgeoning internet music scene helped spread their sound. Their approach was simple: record music they loved, play gigs, and repeat. Their music caught the ear of indie labels, leading to a deal with Fat Possum Records, which propelled them from local gigs to national tours.
The Turning Point
The release of “Thickfreakness” in 2003, recorded in just 14 hours, marked a significant moment. It was this album that not only sharpened their sound but also introduced The Black Keys to a broader audience, setting the stage for their subsequent commercial success with albums like “Brothers” and “El Camino.”
The Legacy of That Basement
The Black Keys’ story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of friendship. That basement in Akron wasn’t just a place to make music; it was where they honed their craft, learned the music business, and built a bond that would withstand the pressures of fame.
Conclusion
From those humble beginnings, The Black Keys have never lost sight of where they came from. Their music continues to echo the raw energy and authenticity of those basement sessions. For fans and aspiring musicians alike, the story of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney is a reminder that sometimes, all you need to start something great is a friend, some instruments, and a little bit of space.
