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David Coverdale is retiring from music. The Whitesnake frontman and onetime Deep Purple vocalist made the announcement today in a video to his fans.
“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters of the snake, a special announcement for you,” he began, continuing:
After 50 years-plus of an incredible journey with you, with Deep Purple, with Whitesnake, Jimmy Page, the last few years has been very evident to me that it’s time really for me to hang up my rock ‘n’ roll platform shoes and my skintight jeans. And as you can see, we’ve taken care of the lion’s wig. But it’s time for me to call it a day. I love you dearly. I thank everyone who’s assisted and supported me on this incredible journey — all the musicians, the crew, the fans, the family. It’s amazing, but it really is time for me to just enjoy my retirement. And I hope you can appreciate that. Once again, I love you with all my heart. Fare thee well.
From 1973 to 1976, Coverdale replaced Ian Gillan as the singer of Deep Purple before forming Whitesnake in 1978. Whitesnake did a farewell tour a few years ago, and earlier this year guitarist John Sykes passed away. Watch Coverdale’s announcement video below.