Rock legend's band comes under fire for touring after his death

Just two weeks after the death of legendary rock frontman Jack White, his band has responded to the criticism that accompanied their decision to change their name and continue touring.

Band member Tony “Montana” Cardenas released a statement on Facebook.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and bandmate Jack Russell,” he wrote. “We had been preparing for this moment for a long time. It was obvious to him and to all of us that his abilities were declining and that, as much as he wanted to perform for his fans and the fans of Great White music, he just couldn't take it anymore.

“After Jack's resignation on July 17, we all discussed, including Jack, how to deal with the shows that were already booked,” he continued. For legal reasons, we would have to have a different company name for those shows. So the band name Once Bitten was put into service and we went on tour with Jack's blessing.”

Cardenas then said he had “seen some online speculation that is critical of the apparent timing of our transition.”

“Frankly, these things were in the planning stages months ago and Jack was not only aware of it but encouraged it,” he continued. “If your captain becomes incapacitated on the ship, the first officer takes over the helm. That was Captain Jack's order. And that's where we are now.”

White, 63, died on August 15, less than a month after he announced his retirement in a Facebook post.

“To my fans and friends, it is with a heavy heart that I must announce my retirement from touring,” he wrote. “After a recent diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) in May 2024, I will no longer be able to perform at the level I desire and you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a miracle. Love, Jack Russell.”

Loudwire reported that Russell performed with Great White from 1981 to 1996. He left the band in 1996 to pursue a solo career. The website states that he returned several times to perform with Great White and then formed his own band, Jack Russell's Great White.

Cardenas said in his post that he “believes it's still appropriate to go out and play the songs. Songs that I was either involved in writing or recording or songs that I helped make into hits.”

“Both myself and Jack's band, Jack Russell's Great White, have great respect for Jack's legacy, for his contribution to Great White, and we will continue to play as long as you want to hear the songs of the Great White legacy,” he added.

Cardenas said the band is also planning a musical celebration in honor of White to be held in Los Angeles.

“Jack's band and I would like to express our sincere thanks for the outpouring of love and support,” he continued. “Jack Russell's voice, humor and zest for life will be sorely missed by all of us. We all sail on. We all sail away.”