The Civil Wars, the Grammy Award winning duo who has been on hiatus since 2012, officially announced they are calling it quits today via a press release. Joy Williams and John Paul White have been on rocky ground since they hit the spotlight with the release of their critically acclaimed album Barton Hollow.
Williams spoke out about the hiatus lat year saying,
“John Paul and I aren’t speaking right now but to me that doesn’t determine the outcome of the band because if we’re not speaking we can’t determine the outcome of the band at this moment,” she told The Associated Press.
Unfortunately it seems that their relationship and The Civil Wars have not been able to be mended. The press release states:
“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,” Williams said in a statement.
“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,” White added. “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.”
With the end of the band and seemingly their professional (and maybe personal) relationship, The Civil Wars released a final track to fans to say goodbye. Available for download on their website for download is the track, “You Are My Sunshine” which initially appeared on their 7-inch release of Barton Hollow.