The White Stripes Say Goodbye

A still from the closing scene of White Stripes: Under Great White Northern Lights.

The hope and dream that the White Stripes would make up that cancelled 2007 Forum date can now be put to rest as the band formally announced their split today. It was not a split for the classic “band breakup reasons” as a statement on their website states, “The reason is not due to artistic differences or lack of wanting to continue, nor any health issues as Meg and Jack are feeling fine and in good health,” and continued “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.” The 2007 Forum show and the remaining tour was cancelled as Meg suffered from “acute anxiety.”

The break-up marks the end of an era of sorts as the White Stripes dominated the 2000’s. “Fell in Love WIth A Girl” put the “brother-sister” (husband/wife) duo in the limelight. Their bluesy-garage rock sound, a magical combination of Jack’s incredible guitar work and Meg’s steady drumming was a modern throwback sound. The lo-fi DIY duo stood out with their innovative music video collaborations with Michel Gondry, unique song writing styles and high energy live performances. 2003’s Elephant solidified their status as a major American rock band as “Seven Nation Army” became a classic anthem, propelling the album into the top 10 and winning the Grammy for Best Rock Song. The ever recognizable main riff is used throughout the world today in soccer and football matches as a fight song.

While Meg has continued her silence and remained out of the spotlight since the tour cancellation, Jack has proceeded full force with side projects The Raconteurs and Dead Weather as well as producing and performing with Wanda Jackson.