Renowned musician Jack White, celebrated for his staunch opposition to mobile phones, has embraced modern technology by acquiring his first cell phone on his 50th birthday. This milestone was marked by a heartfelt gift from his wife, Olivia Jean, who presented him with the device.
White, known for his advocacy of phone-free environments at his concerts, shared his thoughts on this significant change via Instagram. He expressed a mix of resignation and anticipation, stating, "Well y’all it’s either all over for me now or just the beginning. I am now the reluctant owner of a cellular telephone for the first time in my life!" (nme.com)
Reflecting on his previous resistance, White acknowledged the challenges posed by modern conveniences that often require mobile access, such as QR codes for parking and music streaming in vehicles. He humorously noted, "I’ve been saying that my days were numbered for years… and I guess Olivia decided to be kind and put me (and all my loved ones) out of my misery!" (nme.com)
This development is particularly noteworthy given White's history of banning mobile phones at his live performances to foster a more immersive experience. In a 2019 interview, he likened society's dependence on smartphones to addiction, emphasizing the importance of experiencing life without constant digital distractions. (nme.com)
Fans and fellow musicians have responded with a mix of surprise and amusement to White's adoption of a cell phone, viewing it as a significant shift for an artist who has long championed analog traditions in a digital age.