'X Factor' Duo Alex & Sierra Announce Split: 'Things Change A Lot'

"X Factor" alums Alex Kinsey and Sierra Deaton, a.k.a. Alex & Sierra, have decided to part ways both as a couple and as a band.

The pair recently announced via Alex & Sierra's official Twitter account that though they did their best to salvage their relationship, they have decided to go their separate ways. "We may be artists, but it seems the next words are some of the hardest we’ve ever had to write. Many of you have been keeping up with us for years; you watched us go from two kids who met on the beach in Florida in 2009 to a couple who won a TV show and released albums and toured the country. We've had an awfully magical time with each other and with you," the duo wrote.

Kinsey and Deaton explained that though it has been a while since their romance ended, their friendship was what kept them going. "Unfortunately things change a lot in 8 years, and though we didn't tell the public, our romantic relationship ended over a year ago...But as everyone does know, we've been best friends forever and really tried to keep A&S going," they added.

In their lengthy post, the exes also explained that their last album and tour had been difficult for them and that they have reached the point where "it feels better to branch out rather than continue making music together."

Kinsey and Deaton made sure to thank the fans who supported them, acknowledging their efforts that included watching their videos, buying CDs and merchandise and attending their concerts.

"No band last forever whether they dated or not," they wrote. "But we will cherish every memory, and our love for you will most certainly last forever. We have a lot of love for each other and ALWAYS will, and we are real people behind the screen you're looking at, so keep that in mind before you say anything and please respect our privacy."

According to Billboard, Alex & Sierra released their latest EP, "As Seen on TV," in September 2016. They ended their "Take Me" tour in March.

The duo scored a $1 million recording contract after winning the U.S. "X Factor" in 2013, People reported. During their audition, Kinsey and Deaton had already been dating for two years, so it was no surprise that the judges were impressed with their chemistry. In fact, Demi Lovato exclaimed, "You're so cute together, there's magic."

Watch Kinsey and Deaton's "X Factor" audition as Alex & Sierra below.