The word “hiatus” wasn’t mentioned, but it sounds like Austin’s biggest breakouts are taking a break.
Black Pumas, the most notable band to emerge from Austin in recent memory, announced a break from touring this afternoon on social media. The band said they “made the difficult decision” to stop touring for the remainder of 2022. The group spent the past few years heavily touring their 2019 self-titled debut LP around the world.
Find Black Pumas’ full statement below:
After four incredible years of career milestones and unforgettable live experiences around the world, we have made the difficult decision to press pause and step away from touring for the rest of the year. We have the best fans in the world and appreciate each and every one of you for your support and understanding. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to know you better.
The announcement follows the band’s recent cancellations of various summer festival appearances in the past month, beginning with the July 14 dropout from Montana’s Under the Big Sky. The announcement said: “We are devastated to announce that due to unforeseen circumstances we are no longer able to perform.” Black Pumas also paused near-daily Instagram posts on July 6.
After debuting with a $5 Saturday night residency at C-Boys Heart & Soul, Black Pumas rose to earn a 2019 Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. The next year, the deluxe edition of their self-titled release scored an Album of the Year look and their song “Colors” was up for Record of the Year. Black Pumas, formed in late 2018, includes Eric Burton, Adrian Quesada, Stephen Bidwell, Brendan Bond, JaRon Marshall, Angela Miller, and Lauren Cervantes.
This article appears in August 12 • 2022.