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Strokes' Valensi Leaves Tour; New Album Arrives June 26

5/15/2026

Summary

Strokes Replace Guitarist

The Strokes announced guitarist Nick Valensi will temporarily leave their world tour.
Steve Schiltz will cover guitar duties during Valensi’s absence.
The tour opens at Bonnaroo on June 2 and runs through September in the United States.
The band will release their seventh album Reality Awaits on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA.

Summary

Schlitz Steps In

Steve Schlitz, longtime associate of The Strokes, filled in for guitarist Nick Valensi in early 2026 and will cover the upcoming tour.
The Strokes formed in 1997 with Nick Valensi, Julian Casablancas and Fabrizio Moretti, added Nikolai Fraiture soon after, and completed the classic lineup with Albert Hammond Jr. in 1999.
Their early-2000s breakout produced hits such as “Last Nite,” “Hard to Explain,” “Reptilia,” and “Juicebox,” establishing them as a leading post-punk revival act and a top indie-rock group of the era.

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Strokes Replace Guitarist

The Strokes announced guitarist Nick Valensi will temporarily leave their world tour.
Steve Schiltz will cover guitar duties during Valensi’s absence.
The tour opens at Bonnaroo on June 2 and runs through September in the United States.
The band will release their seventh album Reality Awaits on June 26 via Cult Records/RCA.

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