John Shearer/WireImageThe Civil Wars are officially breaking up.
The Grammy-winning duo, made up of Joy Williams and John Paul White, issued a statement Tuesday saying they had "regretfully decided to permanently part ways."
According to the band's website, this "difficult decision ends a tumultuous period for the four-time Grammy Award-winning band, who has been on indefinite hiatus since late 2012." The duo offered a download of their rendition of "You Are My Sunshine," recorded in 210, as "a thank you gift and farewell" to their fans.
"I am saddened and disappointed by the ending of this duo, to say the very least," Williams said. "JP is a tremendous musician, and I will always be grateful for the music we were able to create together. I sincerely hope that ‘You Are My Sunshine' will be accepted as a token of my gratitude for every single person that has supported our duo throughout the years. I'm so thankful and my heart is full. Looking ahead, I'm excited to share the music that I am writing and recording in the midst of this difficult transition. I've loved being back in the studio, and have missed performing live. I look forward to seeing you soon."
White added, "I would like to express sincere thanks to all who were a part of the arc of The Civil Wars—from the beginning, to the end, and all points in between. My deep appreciation goes out to all who supported, disseminated, and enjoyed the music. Whatever shape or form the next chapter takes, thanks for being a large part of this one."
Previously, The Civil Wars collaborated with Taylor Swift on "Safe & Sound," which was featured on The Hunger Games' 2012 soundtrack.