The White Stripes Break-Up

That's right, one of alternative rock's best duo's have separated. The White Stripes, from Detroit, MI, consisted of Jack and Meg White, and began their success in the music industry in 1999, with the release of their self-titled album. The two were married at one point in time, but divorced in 2000 before they achieved mainstream success. They claim to be brother and sister to the public to have the media focus on the music rather than their relationship.

The White Stripes have had their slew of singles in their 12 years of success. I remember hearing Seven Nation Army all the time on the radio when I was in 6th grade, in 2003, when it was released. That catchy bass line was one of the first I've ever learned when I began playing. Then in 2005, Blue Orchid and My Doorbell were released, which both climbed the music charts all over the world. One of their most recent singles, Icky Thump, released in 2007, reached the number one spot on the U.S. Alternative Songs list that same year.

                                                                                             Courtesy of Google Images

The Third Man Records website states that the break-up "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."In other words, they were satisfied in what they have accomplished in their many years of success and want to leave it at that. The band also stated that The White Stripes belong to the fans now, saying that they "can do with it whatever [they] want. The beauty of art and music is that it can last forever if people want it to."

The Bassline 

The White Stripes have been a huge influence on alternative, indie, and most rock music throughout the world. Their legacy on music as a whole will always live on due to their mainstream success and chart-topping albums and singles. The Detroit duo will continue to influence rock bands for many, many years to come.