LOS ANGELES – The ‘White Stripes’ announced their demise as a band Wednesday, denying any differences or lack of enthusiasm but saying they want their music to be remembered at its best. Jack White and Meg White, known for their raw mix of punk and blues in songs like ‘Seven Nation Army,’ asked their fans not to be disappointed, because “the beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to.”
“The ‘White Stripes’ would like to announce that today, their band has officially ended and will make no further new recordings or perform live,” they said in a statement on their website. “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.”
Rather, they said, “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.” Their label ‘Third Man Records’ would continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings, said the pair, known for their trademark red, white and black clothing.
The duo — who used to be married — launched ‘The White Stripes’ in Detroit in 1997, with Jack on vocals, guitar and keyboards, and Meg played drums and sometimes sang. They were part of the Detroit garage scene which emerged in the early 2000s.
