Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond The Black Keys
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Mar 11, 2025 
Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney of The Black Keys dive into their creative process behind the upcoming album, No Rain, No Flowers. They fondly recall growing up in Akron, filled with quirky characters and musical influences. The duo also discusses newfound passions for DJing eclectic parties, sharing the thrill of making people dance to unknown tracks. They reflect on the vibrant blues roots that shaped their sound and the exciting evolution of their music amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
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John Peel Support
- The Black Keys' first big break outside the U.S. was John Peel playing their debut album.
- They later visited Peel's home, napped in his daughter's bed, played soccer, and explored his vast record collection.
Opium-Fueled Blues Duo
- Early in their career, The Black Keys naively admitted to an NME journalist they had smoked opium.
- The resulting headline, "Opium-fueled blues duo," didn't boost sales but made an impression.
Band Name Origin
- The band's name, The Black Keys, originated from an eccentric Akron artist named Alfred McMore.
- McMore, who Dan's father supported, would call them "black keys" if they didn't bring him supplies.