For some reason – or basically just a whim, I kept a candle burning for them to get back together (that’s a figure of speech) but finally we have to report Joy Williams and John Paul White will not be reuniting as the Grammy-winning duo The Civil Wars.
Here’s the official statement from their site:
(Photo: Taylor Swift)
The Civil Wars—made up of duo partners Joy Williams and John Paul White—have regretfully decided to permanently part ways. The difficult decision ends a tumultuous period for the four-time Grammy Award-winning band, who has been on indefinite hiatus since late 2012. As a thank you gift and farewell, the band is offering a download of their rendition of “You Are My Sunshine.” Recorded in 2010, the track was originally released in 2011 as a b-side to the band’s limited edition Barton Hollow 7” vinyl. This is the first time the song has been available digitally in the U.S. Both Joy and John Paul have added their personal words on disbanding here below. Joy Williams comments, “I am saddened and disappointed by the ending of this duo, to say the very least. JP is a tremendous musician, and I will always be grateful for the music we were able to create together. I sincerely hope that ‘You Are My Sunshine’ will be accepted as a token of my gratitude for every single person that has supported our duo throughout the years. I’m so thankful and my heart is full. Looking ahead, I’m excited to share the music that I am writing and recording in the midst of this difficult transition. I’ve loved being back in the studio, and have missed performing live. I look forward to seeing you soon.” John Paul adds, “I would like to express sincere thanks to all who were a part of the arc of The Civil Wars—from the beginning, to the end, and all points in between. My deep appreciation goes out to all who supported, disseminated, and enjoyed the music. Whatever shape or form the next chapter takes, thanks for being a large part of this one.”
You can follow each individually at @joywilliams and @johnpaulwhite. From all of us fans of their music, their brief but shining existence will be remembered as an example of how deep and soulful music can be. Thanks to Joy and John Paul for sharing their talent as a duo and here at the Swift Agency we just want to wish them the best in their individual careers and/or life projects.
You can download their parting gift for free, the song “You Are My Sunshine” from their official site at TheCivilWars.com
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