Jackie Danicki

This is one of the sweetest stories I have read in a long time, and not just because I used to live around the corner from this place and see these old folks, proud but frail veterans in their uniforms, walking around Chelsea every day:

The duo’s new album, Icky Thump, is strongly influenced by all things British…and the band decided to offer the pensioners an afternoon matinee.

Jack seemed moved to be playing before such a distinguished audience. “Thanks for letting us into your home, we really appreciate it,” he told the pensioners, before telling them how grateful he was for the contribution they had made during the wars.

If the residents weren’t aware of the White Stripes’ global appeal ahead of the concert, they were certainly sold by the end.

“Fantastic! Normally we only get the odd carol service in here,” said Paddy Fox. The image of Rita Hayworth, emblazoned across Jack’s guitar, also helped the two groups to bond. “If I remember who she is, I know you guys do,” he said.

Filed under: Life