The Black Keys: Biography, Albums, Essential Songs and Legacy

The Black Keys are proof that two people in a basement can make the biggest rock sound in the room. Guitarist and singer Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney spent a decade playing small clubs before becoming one of the most successful rock bands of the 2010s, all while keeping their raw blues-rock roots.

The Black Keys at a glance

Formed	2001, Akron, Ohio
Members	Dan Auerbach (vocals, guitar), Patrick Carney (drums)
Genres	Blues rock, garage rock revival, alternative rock
Breakthrough	Brothers (2010), El Camino (2011)
Grammys	Multiple, including Best Alternative Music Album for Brothers and Best Rock Album for El Camino

Formation

Auerbach and Carney grew up as neighbors in Akron. After both dropped out of college, they began recording in Carney’s basement, inspired by blues artists such as Junior Kimbrough, R.L. Burnside and Howlin’ Wolf. Their debut The Big Come Up (2002) on indie label Alive led to a deal with Fat Possum Records.

The albums

The early years

Thickfreakness (2003) and Rubber Factory (2004) built a following through relentless touring and song placements in films and ads. They signed with Nonesuch in 2006.

Attack & Release (2008)

Their first album with producer Danger Mouse, who became a frequent collaborator.

Brothers (2010)

The breakthrough, recorded at Muscle Shoals in Alabama. “Tighten Up” and “Howlin’ for You” made them stars, and the album won multiple Grammys.

El Camino (2011)

Faster and catchier, led by “Lonely Boy,” “Gold on the Ceiling” and “Little Black Submarines.” It peaked at No. 2 in the U.S. and took them to arenas.

Turn Blue (2014)

Psychedelic and moody, and their first U.S. No. 1 album, with “Fever.”

Let’s Rock (2019) and later albums

After a break for solo and production work, they returned with guitar-driven Let’s Rock, then Delta Kream (2021), a tribute to Mississippi hill country blues, Dropout Boogie (2022) and Ohio Players (2024).

Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney

Auerbach is also a sought-after producer whose Easy Eye Sound studio and label in Nashville have worked with many artists. Carney has produced records too and is known for his dry humor.

Legacy

The Black Keys brought blues-based garage rock back to mainstream radio and arenas, alongside The White Stripes. Their success inspired a wave of two-piece and blues-influenced rock bands.

Ten songs to start with

1. Lonely Boy
2. Tighten Up
3. Gold on the Ceiling
4. Howlin’ for You
5. Little Black Submarines
6. Fever
7. Next Girl
8. Lo/Hi
9. 10 A.M. Automatic
10. Your Touch

If you like The Black Keys, try

The White Stripes, Arctic Monkeys, Royal Blood, Cold War Kids, Rival Sons and Queens of the Stone Age.

Frequently asked questions

When did The Black Keys form?

In 2001 in Akron, Ohio.

Who are the members of The Black Keys?

Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney.

What is their biggest song?

“Lonely Boy” (2011).

Are The Black Keys still active?

Yes. They continue to release albums and tour.

About this article: Written and fact-checked by The Alternative One editorial team, the programmers and music writers behind the station’s on-air shows. Official artist website: theblackkeys.com. Last reviewed October 2, 2026. Read our editorial standards or tell us about a correction.