The Strokes Announce Nick Valensi Will Take Temporary Break From Upcoming World Tour
The Strokes have confirmed that founding guitarist Nick Valensi will be taking a “temporary break” from a portion of the band’s upcoming global tour. The announcement comes as the indie rock icons prepare for an intensive touring schedule following the upcoming release of their first studio album in six years.
The Announcement and Valensi’s Absence
The band shared the news via an Instagram Story, confirming the hiatus while expressing optimism regarding his eventual return. “Nick will be taking a temporary break from the scheduled tour, but we look forward to his return,” the band stated in the post.
While the band did not provide a specific reason for Valensi’s absence, he has been absent from several performances earlier this year. However, he did participate in the band’s recent sets at Coachella 2026.
Valensi was notably absent from the band’s appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on May 15. During that episode, the group performed the live debut of their new single, “Falling Out of Love.”
Steve Schiltz to Fill in on Guitar
To maintain their touring momentum, The Strokes have tapped Longwave frontman Steve Schiltz to step in on guitar. Schiltz is a longtime associate of the group, with the band noting that fans “will remember [him] from our early NY days.”
New Music and Upcoming Tour Schedule
The tour announcement coincides with a major era for the band. Their highly anticipated new album, Reality Awaits, is scheduled for release on June 26. The album’s rollout has already been bolstered by the release of the lead single “Going Shopping” and the recent debut of “Falling Out of Love.”
The band’s upcoming itinerary is expansive, spanning North America, Europe, and Japan. The Strokes are slated to perform headlining sets at several major music festivals this year, including:
- Bonnaroo
- Outside Lands
At this time, it remains unclear if Valensi will rejoin the lineup for the scheduled festival appearances.
Key Takeaways
- Status: Nick Valensi is taking a “temporary break” from the upcoming tour.
- Replacement: Steve Schiltz (of Longwave) will handle guitar duties in the interim.
- New Album: Reality Awaits arrives on June 26.
- Tour Scope: The upcoming tour includes dates across North America, Europe, and Japan, plus headlining festival slots.