The Grammy-winning duo, which had been on an indefinite hiatus since canceling their 2012 tour, announced in a statement that they 'regretfully decided to permanently part ways.'
- Aug 6, 2014
AceShowbiz - The Civil Wars is officially no more. The duo comprising of Joy Williams and John Paul White announced they'd "regretfully decided to permanently part ways" in a statement issued on their official website on Tuesday, August 5.
"The difficult decision ends a tumultuous period for the four-time Grammy Award-winning band," the statement read. The group had been on an indefinite hiatus since 2012, when they canceled a tour in Europe due to "internal discord and irreconcilable differences of ambition."
As a farewell gift, The Civil Wars shared a beautiful cover of "You Are My Sunshine", which was originally a B-side to the duo's limited-edition "Barton Hollow" 7-inch vinyl. Marking the first time the track has been made available digitally in the U.S., it's available for free download on their web.
"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," said Williams, who called her partner White "a tremendous musician." Admitting that she's "saddened and disappointed" by the split, she said she's trying to work on her new music "in the midst of this difficult transition."
White added, "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."
The Civil Wars' last album arrived in 2013. The self-titled set hit Billboard 200's No. 1 although the duo didn't tour to promote it. They previously worked with Taylor Swift for "Safe and Sound" that's featured in the soundtrack of "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire".
