Legendary Whitesnake vocalist David Coverdale announced his retirement from the stage this Thursday, the 13th. In his five-decade career, the Englishman also performed with Deep Purple and collaborated with names like Jimmy Page , John Sykes , and Steve Vai .
In a video posted on the band's channel, David – who has been away from live performances since 2022 – explained the decision. According to him, the time to "end" has come.
“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters of the 'snake', a special announcement for you. After more than 50 years of an incredible journey with you, with Deep Purple, with Whitesnake, Jimmy Page, the last few years have made it clear to me that it really is time to hang up my rock and roll platform shoes and my skinny jeans. And as you can see, we took care of the lion's wig. But it's time, for me, to call it a day,” he said [transcription via Blabbermouth ].
“I love you all so much. I am grateful to everyone who helped and supported me on this incredible journey – all the musicians, the crew, the fans, the family. It’s amazing, but it’s truly my time to enjoy my retirement. And I hope you can appreciate that. Once again, I love you with all my heart. Goodbye.”
David Coverdale cancelled shows in 2022 due to health reasons.
On June 28, 2022, David had to cancel dates in Milan and Vienna after contracting a sinus and trachea infection. The last time he performed on stage was at Hellfest , also in 2022.
“I’m so sorry to the fans who planned to see us on the Farewell Tour in each of those cities – I intend to get better as quickly as possible and be able to do the remaining shows on the European tour. You are all in our hearts!”, Coverdale wrote at the time.
READ ALSO: Monsters of Rock 2026 announces Halestorm as one of the acts
