Wednesday marked the end of one of the most significant rock groups in music history. On Feb. 2, The White Stripes announced on their website that the band, which is made up of Jack and Meg White, will no longer be performing live or recording new music.
Their reasons weren’t specific; in fact, the band mentioned that the decision was not due to one single factor. In a manner that showed humility and respect for what they had accomplished, the White Stripes 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.”
Calling it quits in order to preserve the accomplishments and status of a critically acclaimed career could not have been an easy decision for Jack and Meg.
The band’s career spanned over 13 great years. In a little over a decade, the band received album reviews and ratings that ranged from lousy to legendary, depending upon who was writing.
Despite what critics wrote, fans showed up to concerts in droves to witness the incredibly unique act of musical talent and soulful passion.
Jack White brought a diverse instrumental skill set every time he performed live. Depending on the song, apart from being the lead vocalist, he would switch between acoustic and electric guitars, a marimba, different types of pianos and bagpipes.
To some, Meg played a lesser role, but she was in fact the heartbeat of the band. As with any musical group, something must provide the beat or rhythm to create a backbone.
For this, Meg White deserves to be considered among the greatest. Her drumming rhythms were not known for being complex; in fact, they were designed purposely to represent a level of purity. If Meg had been any more ostentatious in her drumming, the whole beauty of The White Stripes would not have existed in the magical way it did.
Both Jack and Meg remark in their last statement that they hope to not upset their fans with this decision.
“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 music and art 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,” Jack and Meg said.
When the things that you love come to an end, comfort can only be found through cherishing the moments that led you to fall in love in the first place.
"Sub-question: is it in fact unfair to criticize a formerly great artist for his latter day sins, is it better to burn out or fade away?"
Better to go out on top than make terrible records way past your prime like the Rolling Stones or U2 or Aerosmith.
"I just called to say 'I love you'"
A COSBY SWEATER!