Today, via their official website, Jack White and Meg White have released a statement announcing the official end of the band.
The statement reads:
The White Stripes would like to announce that today, February 2nd, 2011,
their band has officially ended and will make no further new recordings or perform live.
The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue, nor any
health issues as both Meg and Jack are feeling fine and in good health.
It is for a myriad of reasons, but mostly to preserve What is beautiful and special about
the band and have it stay that way.
Meg and Jack want to thank every one of their fans and admirers for the incredible
support they have given throughout the 13 plus years of the White Stripes’ intense and
incredible career.
Third Man Records will continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings from
The White Stripes in their Vault Subscription record club, as well as through regular
channels.
Both Meg and Jack hope this decision isn’t met with sorrow by their fans but that it is
seen as a positive move done out of respect for the art and music that the band has
created. It is also done with the utmost respect to those fans who’ve shared in those
creations, with their feelings considered greatly.
With that in mind the band have this to say:
“The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong
to you now and you can do with it whatever you want. The beauty of art and music is
that it can last forever if people want it to. Thank you for sharing this experience. Your
involvement will never be lost on us and we are truly grateful.”
Sincerely,
Meg and Jack White
The White Stripes
Pretty sad news for anyone who didn't see the end of the Under Great White Northern Lights DVD (where Meg breaks down in tears). For those of us who did, this announcement is long overdue.
If we were to quibble with Meg & Jack about their statement, it would probably be the part where they say "The White Stripes belong to you now and you can do with it whatever you want". Considering I can no longer enjoy a college football or basketball game without hearing the marching band beating "7 Nation Army" into the fucking ground, I would merely plead to all marching bands across the land to go easy on that whole "do with it whatever you want" part, for crissakes.