It’s official: The White Stripes are no more. Considering Jack White’s increased activity outside of the band — most notably with his other bands, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather, but also with his production work and Third Man Records — and the White Stripes musical dormancy since 2007’s Icky Thump, it’s not exactly a shock. But still — one of the greatest rock bands of the last decade is finished. And that’s sad.
The announcement was made via the band’s official website, and explains, “The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue … 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.â€
Here’s the ‘direct from the band’ part:
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 any of us and we are truly grateful.
Are you guys thinking what we’re thinking? Meg White solo album?