So, when Jack White recently hinted that he might be soon to head back into the studio with Meg, it appears he was just teasing us, as after a four year hiatus the White Stripes have finally called it quits.
A message was posted on the duo's official website yesterday, revealing that the decision to finally disband was motivated by a wish to preserve "what is beautiful and special about the band".
It also said that while Jack and Meg would not be recording any new material, Third Man Records would continue to put out previously unreleased White Stripes recordings.
No great surprise, and probably for the best, but a little sad all the same. Read the full message from The White Stripes below:
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
