Netflix Announces Intimate Documentary on The White Stripes: Jack White’s Guitar Genius and Vocal Grit Come to Life
Netflix has once again proven itself as the ultimate home for music lovers with its latest announcement: an upcoming documentary that dives deep into the raw, electric world of The White Stripes. Known for their stripped-down sound, explosive energy, and the undeniable chemistry between guitarist/vocalist Jack White and drummer Meg White, the duo redefined what it meant to be a rock band in the early 2000s. Now, for the first time, fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at the rise, challenges, and legacy of one of the most unique bands of the modern era.
The documentary, tentatively titled “Red, White & Raw: The Story of The White Stripes”, promises to deliver an inside look at the band’s humble beginnings in Detroit, their rapid rise to international stardom, and the musical philosophy that set them apart from their peers. With exclusive interviews, never-before-seen rehearsal footage, and archival concert performances, Netflix is building a portrait that goes far beyond the iconic red, white, and black aesthetic that became synonymous with the group.
At the center of the film lies Jack White’s guitar and vocals — the lifeblood of The White Stripes’ sound. From the first growl of his fuzz-drenched riffs to the blues-inspired melodies that carried songs like “Seven Nation Army” and “Fell in Love with a Girl”, White’s playing defined the era of garage rock revival. His voice — equal parts grit, passion, and vulnerability — gave the songs their soul. Whether he was howling into the mic or whispering on a stripped-down acoustic number, White reminded audiences that simplicity could be just as powerful as complexity.
The documentary also shines a spotlight on Meg White’s drumming, often misunderstood but undeniably crucial to the band’s identity. While critics sometimes dismissed her minimalist style, fans and fellow musicians recognized that Meg’s steady, primal beats gave Jack the freedom to soar with his guitar and vocals. Together, the two created a sound larger than the sum of its parts, proving that you don’t need a full band to shake the foundations of rock music.
Netflix has confirmed that the documentary will include exclusive commentary from Jack White himself, as well as appearances by artists and collaborators who were influenced by the band. Expect insights from fellow rock legends, producers, and even fans who credit The White Stripes with inspiring a new wave of DIY musicianship. The film will also touch on the band’s eventual breakup in 2011, exploring the personal and artistic tensions that led to the end of an era.
What makes this documentary particularly exciting is its focus on the dynamic between guitar and vocals — an often-overlooked core of rock history. The White Stripes weren’t about complex production or layered instrumentation. Instead, they embodied the raw power of what one guitar and one voice could achieve when fueled by authenticity. Their music was proof that emotion, not excess, drives connection.
Fans can expect iconic moments such as the making of “Elephant”, the band’s breakthrough album, and the creation of “Seven Nation Army”, a song that became one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in history. From their guerrilla-style performances in small clubs to headlining major festivals, the documentary will capture the duality of The White Stripes: fiercely independent yet globally impactful, minimalist yet massive in influence.
This project continues Netflix’s tradition of bringing music documentaries to the forefront, following successes like “Miss Americana” (Taylor Swift), “Homecoming” (Beyoncé), and “Metallica: Some Kind of Monster”. But where those films showcased larger-than-life productions, “Red, White & Raw” is expected to strip things back — much like the band itself — to remind viewers of the unpolished magic that can happen when guitar and vocals take center stage.
For long-time fans, the documentary is a chance to relive the nostalgia of an era when garage rock felt fresh and rebellious. For younger audiences, it will serve as an introduction to the brilliance of The White Stripes — a band that may no longer be active but continues to influence countless artists across genres.
Netflix has yet to confirm an official release date, but anticipation is already building among the band’s loyal following. One thing is clear: “Red, White & Raw” will not just tell the story of The White Stripes. It will remind the world why guitar and vocals remain the beating heart of rock and roll.