Rock music icon David Coverdale has officially announced his retirement, bringing down the curtain on a spectacular 59-year career that saw him front legendary bands including Whitesnake and Deep Purple.
An Emotional Farewell to Fans
The 74-year-old English vocalist shared his heartfelt decision via a YouTube video, telling his global fanbase that the time had come to 'hang up my rock and roll platform shoes and my skin tight jeans.' Coverdale, known for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, explained that recent years had made it clear that retirement was the right choice.
In his emotional address, the glam metal star raised a cocktail toast to his supporters, saying: 'It is time for me to enjoy my retirement and I hope you can appreciate that. Once again, I love you with all my heart. Fare thee well.' He expressed profound gratitude to everyone who had supported his journey, specifically mentioning musicians, crew members, fans, and family.
Whitesnake's Enduring Legacy
Coverdale founded the iconic band Whitesnake in 1978, but the group reached their commercial peak in 1987 with two massive hits that defined an era of rock music. 'Is This Love' reached No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, while the anthemic 'Here I Go Again' claimed the top spot, becoming one of the most recognisable rock songs of all time.
Both music videos featured his late second ex-wife, Julie 'Tawny' Kitaen, whose memorable performances contributed significantly to the songs' success. The trailblazing video vixen tragically passed away in 2021 at age 59 from heart issues and drug ingestion.
Health Challenges and Career Milestones
The silver-haired grandfather-of-two hasn't toured with Whitesnake since 2022, the same year he suffered what he described as 'the worst sinus infection I've ever had in my life.' In a 2023 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, Coverdale revealed the severity of his illness, noting he battled the condition for seven months with increasingly strong antibiotics and steroids.
Despite recent health challenges, Coverdale's career achievements remain monumental. In 2016, the Saltburn-by-the-Sea-born singer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Deep Purple, having fronted the band from 1973-1976 after founding vocalist Ian Gillan briefly quit.
His musical collaborations extended beyond his main bands, including a short-lived partnership with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page in 1993. The Coverdale-Page project produced one album and included a Japanese tour.
Family Support and Future Legacy
The retirement announcement prompted warm responses from Coverdale's family. His third wife, Cindy Barker, with whom he recently celebrated the 35th anniversary of their meeting, commented: 'So proud of you, Baby! You gave so much of yourself, so freely, and with so much love and care. Now you get to do whatever you want to!'
Their 29-year-old son Jasper shared a touching tribute on social media, describing his father as 'the greatest man' he knows and praising his empathy, talent, and ability to connect with people worldwide. Coverdale, who became a US citizen in 2007, also has a 47-year-old daughter, Jessica, from his marriage to first ex-wife Julia Borkowski.
While Coverdale steps away from performing, his musical legacy may continue through the spin-off group Whitesnake Experience by the Members of Whitesnake, which he authorized to perform at a festival in Serbia last August. With over 40 million records sold worldwide, David Coverdale's impact on rock music remains undeniable as he begins this new chapter of his life.
