Hard rock legends Whitesnake are giving fans a fresh chance to experience their blockbuster mid-’80s era on vinyl. On September 18, 2026, Craft Recordings will reissue three landmark albums — Slide It In (1984), Whitesnake (1987, often called 1987), and Slip of the Tongue (1989) — in their original U.S. LP configurations.
These releases arrive at a nostalgic time for the band, following David Coverdale’s retirement announcement in late 2025 after over 50 years in music. The reissues celebrate the era that catapulted Whitesnake to global superstardom with massive hits, high-production gloss, and unforgettable guitar work from legends like John Sykes, Vivian Campbell, and Steve Vai.
Reissue Details and Exclusive Variants
All three albums will be available on standard black vinyl, with limited-edition color pressings for collectors:
- Slide It In (1984): Onyx vinyl (exclusive via CraftRecordings.com)
- Whitesnake (1987): Gold Black Ice (CraftRecordings.com), Tan Smoke (Walmart exclusive), Stone Marble (Revolver exclusive)
- Slip of the Tongue (1989): Crimson Moon vinyl (CraftRecordings.com)
The reissues stick faithfully to the original U.S. track listings and running orders that defined the band’s commercial peak in America. No specific statements from David Coverdale have been released regarding this particular vinyl campaign, but the timing aligns with ongoing legacy projects from the band’s catalog.
The Albums That Defined an Era
- Slide It In (1984): Marked a major breakthrough in the U.S. with hits like “Slow An’ Easy” and “Love Ain’t No Stranger.” It featured a mix of UK and US versions due to label differences, showcasing the band’s shift toward more accessible hard rock.
- Whitesnake (1987): The multi-platinum juggernaut that made them MTV superstars. Packed with anthems “Here I Go Again,” “Is This Love,” and “Still of the Night,” it remains one of the definitive hair metal/glam rock albums of the decade.
- Slip of the Tongue (1989): Featured guitar virtuoso Steve Vai and continued the hit-making streak with “Fool for Your Loving” and “The Deeper the Love.” It capped the band’s most commercially dominant period.
These reissues come as Whitesnake continues archival releases and touring efforts under Coverdale’s approval, even after his retirement from active frontman duties.
