the Civil Wars

Paramore’s Hayley Williams and The Civil Wars’ Joy Williams Duet ‘Hate to See Your Heart Break’: Watch

Hayley Williams (left) of Paramore and Joy Williams, formerly of The Civil Wars, perform together on a version of the song "Hate To See Your Heart Break" from the deluxe version of Paramore's self-titled album.
For the deluxe reissue of Paramore‘s 2013 self-titled album (out today, Nov. 24), the band has released a music video to accompany a new version of the song “Hate to See Your Heart Break,” re-recorded with new vocals from The Civil Wars’ Joy Williams.

“When we met, I was 12 and Joy was like 18 or 19, I think,” Hayley Williams told NPR. “I was already a fan of hers. It was fate that we became friends. She was always giving great advice and listening to songs I’d written or big plans I had about becoming a real artist… I love that I got to sing this with someone who I have shared my pains and my stories with for quite some time. Someone whom I know well and who I’ve sat and listened to as they share their own pains. It was never meant as romantic song between lovers but always a song to a friend. Now it’s even more special. I think of it as an ode to sisterhood.”

The Civil Wars Break up but Don’t Break Our Hearts

The band The Civil Wars has split up.  A press release was posted to their website today, which states

The Civil Wars—made up of duo partners Joy Williams and John Paul White—have regretfully decided to permanently part ways. The difficult decision ends a tumultuous period for the four-time Grammy Award-winning band, who has been on indefinite hiatus since late 2012. As a thank you gift and farewell, the band is offering a download of their rendition of “You Are My Sunshine.” Recorded in 2010, the track was originally released in 2011 as a b-side to the band’s limited edition Barton Hollow 7” vinyl. This is the first time the song has been available digitally in the U.S. Both Joy and John Paul have added their personal words on disbanding here below. Joy Williams comments, “I am saddened and disappointed by the ending of this duo, to say the very least. 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.” John Paul adds, “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.”

Additionally, the duo shared one final song, a cover of “You Are My Sunshine”. Listen Below