The White Stripes have officially announced their break up. Posting on Third Man Records’ website today, Meg and Jack White explain that their break up is solely to preserve what they have already accomplished as a band. The White Stripes hope that this news “isn’t met with sorrow but that it is seen as a positive move done out of respect for the art and music that the band has created.” They assure that artistic differences or a lack of wanting to continue are not primary reasons for their split. “The White Stripes do not belong to Meg and Jack anymore. The White Stripes belong to you now,” the band explains.

Third Man Records will continue to put out unreleased live and studio recordings from The White Stripes for those who are subscribed to the Vault Record Club. Fans that aren’t a part of the subscription will get some material as well.

You can read the full announcement here.