Why Did Keith Urban Part Ways with His Longtime Bandmates Jerry Flowers and Nathan Barlowe?

Keith Urban’s loyal fans were left heartbroken when it was announced that bassist Jerry Flowers and multi-instrumentalist Nathan Barlowe would no longer be joining him on stage for his upcoming High and Alive World Tour. These two talented musicians had been integral to Keith’s live shows for years, with Flowers being a member of the band for an impressive 25 years, and Barlowe being a part of the lineup for nearly a decade. Their departure marks the end of an era for Urban’s band, leaving fans and fellow artists alike in shock.

The Announcement: A Heartfelt Farewell

Both Flowers and Barlowe took to social media on January 10 to share the news of their departure. Despite the sadness of the situation, both expressed nothing but gratitude for their time with Keith Urban. Flowers, in his post, expressed his respect and love for Urban, stating, “It’s with a heavy but very full heart that after 25 years on stage with Keith Urban, Keith has decided to make a lineup change and I will no longer be in the band.” He continued by thanking the fans for their support over the years, adding, “I hope I was a small part of bringing you joy and happiness thru our shows.”

Similarly, Barlowe shared his feelings about the change, reflecting on the last nine years of his musical journey with the band. “Sadly my time with Keith Urban has come to an end. I can’t tell you how thankful I am for the last nine years,” he wrote. Barlowe’s post also included a thank you to Urban, his bandmates, and the fans who supported him during his time with the band.

A Strong Bond and a Heavy Loss

The love between Flowers and Barlowe and Keith Urban is clear from their posts, and both musicians have made it known that their departure is purely a result of a lineup change, with no ill will between them. Flowers also shared his admiration for Barlowe, commenting on his post, “As big as your talent is, your personality is even more impressive. You’re such a good friend, and I’ve loved every second on stage with you.”

The news has left fans deeply emotional. Many flocked to social media to express their disappointment over the decision to part ways with such long-standing members of the band. “This is crap,” one fan wrote. Another shared, “Jerry, this is breaking my heart. You are just as much a part of KU as anyone. I go to concerts to see you as much as to see KU. This is horrible news.”

The Phantom Instrument: Will It Stay?

Nathan Barlowe is also known for creating The Phantom, an instrument that became a staple of Keith Urban’s live shows, particularly during his Ripcord Tour. There’s been no word yet on whether The Phantom will remain part of the setlist, but fans are hopeful that it will continue to be featured, as it has become a key part of Urban’s unique live performances.

Fans’ Reaction: A Shift in the Band’s Dynamic

The change in the band lineup has not been met with approval by many of Urban’s dedicated fans, who feel that the unique chemistry of the band has been disrupted. One fan commented, “After reading Jerry’s post, I was praying not you too, Nathan. I don’t understand the decisions to change such a beautifully well-oiled machine. This change is going to be felt, not just seen and heard.”

Despite the fan backlash, Keith Urban has yet to address the decision publicly, leaving many to wonder about the future of his band and the direction his live shows will take.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Keith Urban

While fans mourn the departure of Jerry Flowers and Nathan Barlowe, the changes to Keith Urban’s band are part of the ongoing evolution of his career. As the High and Alive World Tour approaches, it will be interesting to see how Urban’s live shows adapt without the presence of these two longtime members. The void left by Flowers and Barlowe will undoubtedly be felt, but Urban’s ability to connect with his fans and bring energy to his performances is sure to continue, as he embarks on a new chapter in his musical journey.

 

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