Fell in Love with a Band: The Story of the White Stripes

With only two members and no bass player the White Stripes certainly seemed like the ultimate makeshift band. So how is it that this enigmatic couple--who publicize themselves as brother and sister though official documents say they're ex-husband-and-wife--became a multi-platinum musical sensation? From their early days as the darlings of Detroit rock scene to their current status as MTV celebs, they've defied expectations every step of the way. How did it happen that the simple idea of staying true to a lo-fi, blues-based sound became a revolutionary idea in the age digital conformity and complex studio production?

Chris Handyside is one of the most prominent Detroit rock journalist on the scene today. His work, including extended features about the White Stripes, the Von Bondies and the Detroit music scene, have appeared in Spin, Rolling Stone and Mojo. He served as music and arts editor for Detroit alternative newsweekly the Metro Times. He currently lives in Ferndale, MI with his wife and son.