Jack White Responds to Fans Expecting Longer Shows: “It’s Not a Marvel Movie or a Vegas Residency”

Jack White has spoken out against what he perceives as “entitled” expectations from fans who demand extended performances, asserting that his concerts are rock shows—not elaborate productions akin to a Marvel movie or a Las Vegas residency.

The former White Stripes frontman, who released his sixth solo album No Name last August, is currently touring North America in support of the record. With upcoming performances in Brooklyn, White took to Instagram on Saturday (February 8) to address the discourse surrounding the duration of his live sets.

Addressing Set Length Expectations

White’s statement was prompted by ongoing discussions about the perceived ideal length of a concert. “Been hearing a lot of chatter throughout the year of this glorious electric touring about how long our sets are ‘supposed to be’ on stage,” he wrote. “As if the length of a show determines how ‘good’ it is.”

The musician pointed out the modern trend of celebrating long performances, referencing how some artists are praised for playing for three hours or more. However, White clarified that he does not subscribe to this notion: “I’ll let our fans know now that my mind has no intention of ‘impressing’ y’all in that context. The Beatles and Ramones played 30-minute (ish) sets, and if I could, I would do the same at this moment in my performing life. That’s actually the kind of show I’d like to put on right now.”

Rejecting Spectacle Over Substance

Acknowledging that some fans may feel entitled to longer shows due to high ticket prices, White was firm in differentiating his performances from high-production arena spectacles. “I think you’re talking about an arena laser light show with pyro, huge screens with premade videos, singers flying over the crowd, t-shirt cannons, etc. That’s not the kind of shows we’re performing,” he stated.

Instead, White emphasized the organic and unpredictable nature of his concerts. “There’s no setlist, and it’s not a Marvel movie, or a Vegas residency—it’s rock and roll, and it’s a living, breathing organism.”

Gratitude for Fans’ Support

Despite his strong stance, White expressed deep appreciation for his audience. “See you in the hall tonight, friends. Love you all so much, and thank you for coming to these shows, standing in line, and paying your hard-earned money to help this train keep rolling. The crew and the boys in the band are loving y’all as much as me—we are grateful, thank you.”

Recent Setlist Trends and Album Reissues

White’s recent setlists have typically featured 20 to 25 songs, spanning his career from The White Stripes to The Raconteurs. During his London Assembly Hall show last September, he made a similar statement: “This is the kind of rock ’n’ roll you’re not gonna get at Wembley Stadium for £400!”

In related news, The White Stripes recently announced a 20th-anniversary reissue of their fifth album, Get Behind Me Satan. This special edition will include songwriting demos, alternate studio takes, and live versions, giving fans a deeper look into the album’s creative process.

Jack White’s ongoing tour continues to showcase his raw and unfiltered approach to live music, reinforcing his belief that the essence of rock and roll lies in its spontaneity rather than in spectacle.