David Coverdale, lead singer of Whitesnake and one of the most iconic voices in hard rock, has announced his retirement from the stage. The 74-year-old British musician revealed his decision in a video published on his social media on Thursday, November 13, marking the end of a career that spanned more than five decades.
“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters of the Serpent, a special announcement for you,” began Coverdale, before explaining that recent years have made evident the need to stop.
“After more than 50 years of an incredible journey with you – with Deep Purple, with Whitesnake, with Jimmy Page – it has become very clear to me that It’s time to hang up my rock’n’roll platform shoes and my tight jeans.”
Visibly emotional, the musician continued: “As you can see, we took good care of the lion’s mane. But the time has come for me to retire. I love you so much. I thank everyone who helped and supported me on this incredible journey… but the time has really come to simply enjoy my retirement, and I hope you understand.”
Whitesnake, hard rock hit machines
The band became known not only for the virtuosity of its musicians — among them John Sykes, Adrian Vandenberg or Steve Vai — but also for the charismatic presence of Coverdale, whose powerful voice and aesthetic adapted to the glam metal of the 80s marked the era.