Jack White is notorious for being elusive. As such he doesn’t often wear his heart on his sleeve, but when he does, it is always with purpose.
On December 10, he shared a quiet, yet deeply meaningful tribute to former bandmate and wife, Meg White for her 50th birthday. A simple Polaroid of Meg, accompanied by a few heartfelt words: “HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY to my big sister, the great Meg White. There’s only one of you, Meggo. They broke the mold. You’re still inspiring people, including me. Love you so much.”
The White Stripes were born out of raw energy and an intrinsic understanding between Jack and Meg. Since 1997, their music has been floating through the world like omnipresent ghost. I mean, if your ears have not yet been graced by the heaven sent that is Seven Nation Army, I implore you to check it out now.
While Jack’s guitar burned bright, Meg’s quiet, almost ethereal presence behind the drum kit was always the touch what made the sound whole. Meg was always the enigma of the duo. Soft-spoken, almost shy, offstage. Her style wasn’t conventional. But that was exactly the point.
After The White Stripes ended in 2011, Meg faded from public life, choosing to retreat to Detroit. Jack, however, has continued to push forward, most recently wrapping up his 2024 Australian tour. This included an intimate performance at Melbourne’s Corner Hotel. The shows were electric, a reminder that Jack’s fire is still burning. Yet in this moment, on Meg’s birthday, it was clear that she remains a constant in his life—a quiet, powerful influence that still shapes his fluorescent world.
In his tribute, Jack reminded us all of something simple, yet profound: Meg is still inspiring people, still moving the needle in ways only she can. As the ethereal grandmaster from afar. The impact of The White Stripes—and Meg’s unique place in it—is not just part of history; it’s alive, still resonating, still echoing. And that is something that’s truly timeless.
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