Jack White recently integrated his daughter, Scarlett, into his live performance at the Brooklyn Paramount, where she played bass during renditions of “Cannon” and “Black Math.”
Integrating Family Dynamics into Live Rock Performance
The appearance of Scarlett White on stage marks a family affair. During the Brooklyn Paramount show, Scarlett provided bass support for “Cannon,” a track from the White Stripes’ 1999 debut album that interpolates the gospel blue song “John the Revelator.”
The duo also performed “Black Math,” a fan favorite from the band’s fourth studio album, Elephant. By bringing his daughter into the fold, White is performing with a budding artist.
Did you know? Jack White maintains a strict “no-set list” rule for his shows, deciding which songs to play on the fly to keep the energy unpredictable.
The ‘MacGuffin’ Approach to Setlist Curation
White’s approach to live music is often improvisational. In a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone, White described the song “Cannon” as a “MacGuffin.” He explained that the track serves as a placeholder, allowing him to take a breath and let the crowd find a groove before pivoting into a different song.
This fluid structure allows White to experiment with the pacing of a show. For example, during a May show at the Austin360 Amphitheater in 2018, White played “Cannon” for only 40 seconds before transitioning directly into “Broken Boy Soldiers,” a track by The Raconteurs.
Connecting Solo Work with Collaborative Spirit
White continues to push the boundaries of his solo career while supporting eclectic new talent. He is currently touring in support of his eighth solo album, Frozen Charlotte. Rolling Stone characterized this latest project as “13 songs of perpetual disorder,” describing it as a reflection of “idealism under siege” and “challenged connections.”
His willingness to collaborate extends beyond family. On September 29, White invited the “satanic” band Twin Temple to open his show at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
Pro Tip: When attending a Jack White show, don’t rely on published setlists. Because he decides the songs on the fly, every performance is a unique iteration of his catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who played bass with Jack White at the Brooklyn Paramount?
Jack White’s daughter, Scarlett, played bass during the performance.
What is Jack White’s latest album?
His eighth solo album is titled Frozen Charlotte.
Does Jack White use a setlist during his concerts?
No, according to Rolling Stone, White follows a “no-set list” rule and chooses songs spontaneously during the performance.
What do you think about the trend of musicians bringing their children on stage? Does it add to the authenticity of the show, or is it a gimmick? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into rock history.