David Coverdale now really packs up

[David L]

Quite a sad and poignant message from the lascivious old bastard.

My first 'proper' rock concert was Whitesnake at the Oxford New Theatre on the Lovehunter tour in October 1979. I'd just turned sixteen. Looking back, it was a fantastic way to begin my live rock journey and it was a profound experience that played a huge part in developing my love for heavy rock. It's clear to me why this gig had such an effect and mostly that was because Coverdale was such a consumate front man. The way in which he commanded the stage was a blueprint for how to lead a hard rock band. The mic stand antics, the mane-tossing, the repartee with the audience and the obvious respect for the rest of the band all added to his brilliant stage craft. And that voice. As smooth as a silk cravat but powerful when required.

I saw Whitesnake a few times, including the MoR headline gig at Donington. The last time, at The Forum, Kentish Town (many years ago), it was sad to see his powers were much diminished. I maintain that the change in style that came with the 1987 record (and subsequent albums) took their toll on his tonsils. IMO, if he'd continued with the more blues-based style of the earlier stuff, his voice would've lasted longer. I never took to any of that stuff and do not own any Whitesnake records beyond 'Live The Heart Of The City', although I am familiar with the couple of albums that preceded 1987 (I was also turned off by the ridiculous innuendo-strewn lyrics that seemed to get worse with each record).
His legacy is impressive given the fine records he did with Purple before he put his own band together. Without doubt one of the finest rock singers this country has ever produced.


"It's time for me to hang up my rock and roll, platform shoes and skin tight jeans"

Enjoy the velcro-strap sneakers and elastic waistbands, Dave.