- From Deep Purple's depths to Whitesnake's heights: A rock vocalist's journey through the 70s and 80s.
David Coverdale, born in 1951, is a legendary English rock vocalist renowned for his distinctive bluesy voice and charismatic stage presence. His career took flight in the 1970s when he joined Deep Purple, contributing to their iconic albums like "Burn" and "Stormbringer." After departing in 1976, Coverdale formed Whitesnake, initially embracing a blues-rock sound before transitioning to a more commercially successful hard rock style in the 1980s with hits like "Here I Go Again" and "Is This Love."
a renowned English rock singer, songwriter, and musician who has made a significant contribution to the rock music industry. He was born on September 22, 1951, in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, England, and grew up in Redcar. He first gained recognition in the early 1970s as the lead singer of the hard rock band Deep Purple before embarking on a successful solo career and forming his own band, Whitesnake.
Coverdale's career began in 1973 when he replaced Ian Gillan as the lead vocalist of Deep Purple. He recorded three studio albums with the band, "Burn," "Stormbringer," and "Come Taste the Band," before the group disbanded in 1976. During his tenure with Deep Purple, Coverdale developed his unique style of blues-based rock and roll, which would later become a signature sound of his own band, Whitesnake.
After Deep Purple, Coverdale formed Whitesnake , which quickly gained popularity in the United Kingdom and the United States. The band's first album, "Trouble," was released in 1978, followed by "Lovehunter" in 1979. In 1982, Whitesnake released their self-titled album, which contained the hit single "Here I Go Again." The song topped the charts in the United States, propelling the album to multi-platinum status. The album also included the hit singles "Still of the Night" and "Is This Love."
Throughout the 1980s, Whitesnake continued to release successful albums, including "Slide It In" and "Whitesnake." The band's lineup changed frequently, with Coverdale being the only constant member. The band's music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of glam rock, hard rock, and heavy metal. Whitesnake's live performances were also legendary, featuring impressive guitar solos, powerful vocals, and a high-energy stage presence.
In the 1990s, Coverdale continued to release solo albums and worked on various side projects. He also reunited with Deep Purple for a short period, performing on their 1984 album "Perfect Strangers" and their 1987 album "The House of Blue Light." In 2003, Coverdale released an album titled "Whitesnake - The Silver Anniversary Collection," which celebrated the 25th anniversary of the band's formation.
Coverdale's music has influenced many artists in the rock and roll genre, and his powerful vocals and stage presence have made him a true rock icon. He has won numerous awards, including a Grammy for the song "Still of the Night" and an MTV Video Music Award for the video "Here I Go Again." He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 as a member of Deep Purple.
Joins Deep Purple as lead vocalist, replacing Ian Gillan. First album: Burn (1974).
With Deep Purple Mk III & Mk IV. Albums: Stormbringer (1974), Come Taste the Band (1975). Tours worldwide with Ritchie Blackmore, Glenn Hughes, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
Launches solo career after Deep Purple split. Releases White Snake (1977) and Northwinds (1978). Founds Whitesnake with debut Trouble (1978).
Whitesnake rises in Europe with Ready an’ Willing (1980), Come an’ Get It (1981), Saints & Sinners (1982), Slide It In (1984). Known for bluesy hard rock style.
Global breakthrough with Whitesnake (1987). Singles “Still of the Night,” “Is This Love,” and “Here I Go Again” dominate charts. Iconic MTV videos define the era.
Releases Slip of the Tongue. Steve Vai joins on guitar. Whitesnake headlines arenas worldwide.
Whitesnake goes on hiatus. Coverdale works on solo projects and prepares a collaboration with Jimmy Page.
Teams up with Jimmy Page for Coverdale–Page. Album and tour showcase a hard rock fusion of Led Zeppelin and Whitesnake styles.
Revives Whitesnake. Releases Restless Heart (1997).
Official revival of Whitesnake. New tours and live albums. Studio albums: Good to Be Bad (2008) and Forevermore (2011).
Releases The Purple Album, reimagining Deep Purple Mk III classics through Whitesnake.
Flesh & Blood (2019). Later years marked by health issues, fewer live shows, and farewell tour announcements. Continues legacy through reissues and remasters.