Keith Urban is parting ways with his longtime guitar player and band leader, Jerry Flowers. Despite the bittersweet nature of this news, Flowers, who has worked with Urban for over 25 years, shared that he is looking forward to this next chapter.
The pair of musicians have been side-by-side watching each other’s careers blossom since 1997 when they formed the Australian-American country music trio, The Ranch. Before disbanding in 1998, the group, consisting of Urban (guitar, keyboards and vocals), Flowers (bass guitar and background vocals) and Peter Clarke (drums and vocals), released a self-titled album via Capitol records and two singles, “Walkin’ the Country” and “Just Some Love.”
Announcing His Departure
Flowers remained a part of Urban’s band once he resumed his solo career and has continued to rock stages across the world with the Australian singer/songwriter. With a “heavy but full heart,” the masterful guitarist took to Instagram to share the news of his departure and reflect on his many years with Urban. In doing so, he revealed that the decision comes as a result of the “Messed Up As Me” singer making a “lineup change” that does not include Flowers.
“I have and always will have the utmost respect and love for Keith and I treasure the amazing years we had together,” he wrote alongside a slideshow of photos from his time in Urban’s band. “I want to thank all the fans that have showed me so much love for so many years and I hope I was a small part of bringing you joy and happiness thru our shows.”
New Opportunities
When one door closes, another one opens – this is the mentality that Flowers is taking with him as he ponders his next move.
“Now I’m going to open myself up to new opportunities and I’m excited to see what’s next for me. Thank you!!!,” he added in conclusion.
Flower’s Impressive Songwriting Resume
Although Flowers may have gained recognition for being Keith Urban’s longtime guitar player, Jerry Flowers has plenty of other skills and accomplishments on his resume, one being his incredible songwriting ability. He’s written songs recorded by the likes of Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris, Dustin Lynch, Madeline Merlo, Keith Urban, Morgan Wallen, Travis Denning and more.
Additionally, he had the honor of co-writing several chart-topping hits, including Jason Aldean’s “A Little More Summertime,” Billy Currington’s “Do I Make You Wanna,” and three for Sam Hunt: “Outskirts,” “House Party,” and “Kinfolks.”
Jerry Flowers has clearly made an incredible impact on the Nashville community and is expected to continue making meaningful contributions to the scene in whatever endeavor he takes on next.
UPDATE
Shortly after Flowers’ announcement today, two other members of Keith Urban’s band came forward to share that they will also be closing their chapter with the “Straight Line” singer. GRAMMY nominated drummer Terence F. Clark and lead guitar player, backup singer, and keyboard player Nathan Barlowe both took to social media to thank Urban for the time they spent together on stage and expressed hopefulness for whatever future opportunities may come their way.
The post JUST IN: Keith Urban Parts Ways With Longtime Bass Guitar Player and Band Leader, Jerry Flowers appeared first on Country Now.
