Biography
Who is Jack White?
Early life and real name
John Anthony Gillis was born in Detroit, Michigan, on July 9, 1975. He grew up in the Mexicantown area of Southwest Detroit. As a child, he was part of a large family with nine siblings. He was raised in a Catholic household where both of his parents worked for the local Archdiocese.
His musical path began in his youth when he started playing drums in the first grade. He used an old drum kit he found in his attic to practice. Later, he became interested in the guitar after a three year apprenticeship in upholstery. He attended Cass Technical High School during his teenage years in Detroit.
Music career and the White Stripes
Jack White started his professional music path as a drummer for the Detroit group Goober & the Peas. In 1997, he formed the rock duo the White Stripes alongside Meg White. The pair became famous for their specific use of red, white, and black colors and their garage rock sound. Their 2001 album White Blood Cells helped bring them international recognition.
Following the split of the White Stripes in 2011, he moved into a successful solo career. He released his first solo studio album, Blunderbuss, in 2012. His 2014 release, Lazaretto, achieved a record for the most first week vinyl sales since 1991. He has continued to release music, including the albums No Name and Frozen Charlotte.
Business and other ventures
Beyond performing, he is a businessman who co-founded Third Man Records and its studio in 2001. He also ran a business called Third Man Upholstery before his music career took off. His various professional interests include composing, playing the mandolin, and playing the piano.
Jack White has also worked in the film industry with roles in movies such as Cold Mountain and Killers of the Flower Moon. In 2013, he joined the National Recording Preservation Foundation. He has also been recognized as a great guitarist by Rolling Stone magazine and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2025.
Family and relationships
Jack White has been married to Meg White, though they later presented themselves as siblings during their time in the White Stripes. He has also been married to Karen Elson and Olivia Jean. His personal life includes a relationship with Renée Zellweger.
He was born to Teresa and Gorman M. Gillis. His mother's heritage was Polish, while his father came from a Scottish background via Nova Scotia. Growing up in a large household, he was raised significantly by his older siblings.
Birthday and age
Jack White was born on July 9, 1975, which makes Jack 51 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. Jack shares the date with 32 other famous people.
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