The Black keys kick off ’22 tour at the MGM Grand Garden Arena
On July 9th, 2022, the electrifying duo known as The Black Keys kicked off their highly anticipated “Dropout Boogie” tour at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. The night was filled with an energetic blend of alternative, blues, and psychedelic music, leaving the crowd in a state of sheer musical enjoyment from start to finish.
The evening began with a clever and humorous video clip featuring comedian David Cross and his fictional organization, Dads Interested in Choosing our Kids Songs (D.I.C.K.S). Cross pleaded with the audience to leave and warned against watching The Black Keys, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance. As the crowd eagerly awaited the band’s arrival, the arena buzzed with excitement.
The Black Keys wasted no time in unleashing their signature sound, opening the show with the explosive “I Got Mine,” followed by the crowd favorites “Howlin’ for You” and “Gold on the Ceiling.” Throughout the night, they skillfully transitioned between their own hits and a remarkable selection of covers, showcasing their versatility and paying homage to their blues and rock influences.
The band delved into a captivating series of covers, including “Crawlin’ Kingsnake” by John Lee Hooker, “Poor Boy Long Ways From Home” by John Fahey, “Stay All Night” by Junior Kimbrough, “Poor Black Mattie,” and “Goin’ Down South” by R.L. Burnside, as well as “Have Love, Will Travel” by Richard Berry. Each cover was delivered with impeccable musicianship, keeping the audience enthralled and craving for more.
Dan Auerbach’s soulful vocals and mesmerizing guitar skills, coupled with Patrick Carney’s thunderous drumming, formed the core of The Black Keys’ sonic powerhouse. The addition of the Gabbard Brothers (Andy and Zach) and Chris St. Hilaire, who joined the band for the tour, added further depth and richness to their live performance.
The setlist was carefully curated to please both long-time fans and newcomers, incorporating hits such as “Tighten Up,” “Your Touch,” “Fever,” and “Lo/Hi.” The seamless blend of old and new tracks kept the energy high and the crowd engaged throughout the night. The band showcased their remarkable chemistry, effortlessly transitioning from one song to the next, leaving no room for a dull moment.
As the concert reached its climax, The Black Keys treated the audience to an encore that included the anthemic “Little Black Submarines” and the chart-topping hit “Lonely Boy.” These final songs left a lasting impression, solidifying the band’s status as masterful performers and leaving the crowd yearning for more.
The “Dropout Boogie” tour promises to be an incredible journey across the United States, with stops in various cities, including Charlotte, Cincinnati, Huntsville, and a grand finale in Texas. Based on the electrifying start in Las Vegas, it is safe to say that concertgoers can expect an unforgettable experience filled with hard-driving beats, infectious energy, and an unyielding passion for music.
In conclusion, The Black Keys’ concert at the MGM Grand Garden Arena was a night to remember. Their ability to seamlessly transition between genres and captivate the audience with their raw talent and infectious energy was a testament to their status as one of the most exciting rock bands of our time. If you have the chance to catch them on their “Dropout Boogie” tour, do not miss out on the opportunity to witness the magic firsthand