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Indie Rock Guitarist Stepping Away From the Grammy-Winning Band He Co-Founded in 1998

The Strokes announced that a founding member will be taking a “temporary break” from the band.

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On May 15, 2026, The Strokes took to social media to share some disappointing news for longtime fans. The indie rock pioneers have a new album in the pipeline, Reality Awaits, and are kicking off a tour in June. After years with no news, fans are thrilled to see the band heading back on the road.

Unfortunately, founding member Nick Valensi won’t be joining them. The guitarist is taking a “temporary break” from the band and has already sat out several live shows. Fans also noticed his absence when The Strokes appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The band shared the news the next day.

“Nick will be taking a temporary break from the scheduled tour, but we look forward to his return,” the Instagram........

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