David Coverdale, the iconic frontman for Whitesnake and a former lead singer of Deep Purple, has officially announced his retirement from music. In a heartfelt video message posted on November 13, 2025, the 74-year-old rocker revealed that after “50-plus years of an incredible journey,” he feels it’s time to step away.
Coverdale addressed his fans intimately in the video, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters of the Snake … it’s time really for me to hang up my rock ’n’ roll platform shoes and my skintight jeans.” He even made light of his changing appearance: “As you can see, we’ve taken care of the lion’s wig … But it’s time for me to call it a day.”
He expressed deep gratitude to everyone who has been part of his journey — his bandmates, crew, family, and fans. “I love you dearly,” he said. “I thank everyone … all the musicians, the crew, the fans, the family. … But it really is time for me to just enjoy my retirement.” He ended his message simply and powerfully: “Once again, I love you with all my heart. Fare thee well.”
The announcement was followed by a nostalgic montage video set to Whitesnake’s “Fare Thee Well” from their 2011 Forevermore album. The clip features footage spanning Coverdale’s career, a visual tribute to his decades onstage.
Coverdale also touched on his recent health struggles, which played a role in his decision to retire. Back in 2023, he told Ultimate Classic Rock that he had suffered “the worst sinus infection I’ve ever had,” calling it a brutal seven-month ordeal that required “ever-increasingly strong antibiotics and horrifying Prednisone steroids.” He admitted that he couldn’t predict whether he’d be back onstage, but that his passion for music — especially legacy and archival work — had not faded.
Coverdale’s career has been vast and influential. He first rose to prominence as the lead singer of Deep Purple from 1973 to 1976, appearing on albums like Burn, Stormbringer, and Come Taste the Band. In 1978, he founded Whitesnake, and led the band through its most successful era, including global hits such as Here I Go Again and Is This Love. He also collaborated with Jimmy Page in 1993 on the platinum-certified Coverdale-Page project.
Whitesnake’s last studio album was Flesh & Blood, released in 2019. The band’s most recent performance was at Hellfest in Clisson, France, in June 2022 — after which they had to cancel further shows due to health issues.
David Coverdale leaves behind a legacy as one of rock’s most beloved voices. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his music will continue to define generations of rock fans.
