REUTERS/Mark Blinch
The White Stripes have packed up their drum kit and lo-fi (sounding) recording system for the last time.
In a statement posted on the band’s official website, the brother/sister or husband/wife or platonic friends duo said they’ve decided to end the band.
(More on TIME.com: See why the band had an odd appeal)
Best known for their raw style that sounded like music made in your parent’s basement, Meg White and Jack White produced a slew of hit songs including “Fell In Love With A Girl,” “I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself,” and “The Hardest Button to Button.” The White Stripes went on to release RIAA Platinum records, “White Blood Cells” and “Elephant,” the latter of which hit the top of the UK charts. No details have emerged as of yet as to why the band is breaking up now, but The White Stripes insist that it has nothing to do with their health (Meg suffered from acute anxiety in 2007 that resulted in a cancelled world tour) or any squabbles between band members.
For those of you who can’t read the note since their main site has gone down since the announcement, here’s what it says:
The White Stripes would like to announce that today, February 2nd, 2011, their band has officially ended and will make no further new recording 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
Rest in peace, The White Stripes. NewsFeed will miss you. We leave you with their memorable Michel Gondry-directed music video for “Fell In Love With A Girl.”
[youtube=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q27BfBkRHbs”&w=450%5D
(More on TIME.com: See the top 10 music-video directors who now make movies)