The vocalist of the rock band Whitesnake, David Coverdale, announces retirement. The 74-year-old singer, who was also the lead vocalist of Deep Purple between 1973 and 1976, has published a short video on his YouTube channel.

He said: “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, brothers and sisters of the ‘SNAKE, a special announcement for you. After 50 years-plus of an incredible journey with you, with DEEP PURPLE, with WHITESNAKE, Jimmy Page, the last few years has been very evident to me that it’s time really for me to hang up my rock and roll platform shoes and my skintight jeans. And as you can see, we’ve taken care of the lion’s wig. But it’s time for me to call it a day.

“I love you dearly. I thank everyone who’s assisted and supported me on this incredible journey — all the musicians, the crew, the fans, the family. It’s amazing, but it really is time for me to just enjoy my retirement. And I hope you can appreciate that.

“Once again, I love you with all my heart. Fare thee well.”

Coverdale had suffered from degenerative arthritis and had both his knees replaced with titanium in 2017. In 2023 he fell, and he had two torn rotator cuffs. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, he has troubles with his voice.