After more than two decades of making music together, Keith Urban and his longtime band leader, Jerry Flowers, are going their separate ways. Flowers, who has played a key role in Urban’s sound for over 25 years, announced his departure with a mix of gratitude and optimism, signaling the end of an era but the beginning of a new chapter.
A Partnership Spanning Decades
Urban and Flowers have been musical partners since 1997 when they formed The Ranch, an Australian-American country trio that also included drummer Peter Clarke. Though the band disbanded in 1998, they left behind a self-titled album and a few standout singles, including Walkin’ the Country and Just Some Love.
When Urban launched his solo career, Flowers stayed by his side, becoming a fixture in his touring band and helping shape the energy of countless live performances. For fans, seeing Flowers on stage alongside Urban became an expectation—a dynamic that lasted for more than two decades.
Announcing His Departure
Taking to Instagram, Flowers shared the news of his exit, revealing that it came as a result of Urban making a “lineup change” that no longer included him. In his heartfelt message, he reflected on their years together with appreciation and respect.
“I have and always will have the utmost respect and love for Keith, and I treasure the amazing years we had together,” Flowers wrote. He also took a moment to thank fans for their unwavering support, saying he hoped he had played a small role in bringing them joy through Urban’s shows.
Looking Ahead to New Possibilities
Despite the bittersweet nature of his departure, Flowers is keeping an open mind about what’s next.
“Now I’m going to open myself up to new opportunities, and I’m excited to see what’s next for me,” he shared. His message was one of hope, signaling that while this chapter may be closing, another is just beginning.
A Songwriter with an Impressive Resume
Beyond his reputation as an exceptional guitarist, Flowers has made a name for himself as a talented songwriter. His credits include songs recorded by Ryan Hurd, Maren Morris, Dustin Lynch, Keith Urban, Morgan Wallen, and Travis Denning, among others.
Notably, he co-wrote several hit songs, including Jason Aldean’s A Little More Summertime, Billy Currington’s Do I Make You Wanna, and Sam Hunt’s House Party, Kinfolks, and Outskirts.
With a track record like that, it’s safe to say that Flowers’ impact on Nashville’s music scene is far from over.
A Band Reshaped
Shortly after Flowers’ announcement, two other longtime members of Urban’s band—GRAMMY-nominated drummer Terence F. Clark and multi-instrumentalist Nathan Barlowe—also revealed their departures. Both musicians expressed their gratitude for their time with Urban and shared their excitement for whatever lies ahead.
As Keith Urban ushers in a new era of his band, one thing is certain—Flowers, Clark, and Barlowe leave behind a lasting legacy, and fans will undoubtedly be watching to see where their musical journeys take them next.
