Iconic guitarist Steve Vai has commented on David Coverdale’s recent retirement announcement, where the Whitesnake singer stated he is hanging up his “platform shoes and skin-tight jeans” after a career spanning over 50 years. Vai, who was a member of Whitesnake and played on their 1989 album, Slip Of The Tongue, posted his thoughts on social media earlier today (Wednesday, November 19).
Steve wrote:
“I want to take a moment and congratulate Father Snake himself, David Coverdale, on 60 years of delivering pure, royal-grade rock ’n’ roll brilliance.
“David has shaken the earth for over half a century with a voice that could level a mountain. With impeccable instincts for song, melody, swagger, and attitude, his music always gave the rest of us something to feel gloriously cool about.
“I was fortunate enough to tour and record (Slip of the Tongue) with @whitesnake in ’89–’90 alongside Adrian Vandenberg, Rudy Sarzo, and Tommy Aldridge. That band was absolutely smokin’, and sharing the stage with that kind of power was one of the true highlights of my career.
“And on every single one of those 119 shows of the Slip of the Tongue tour, David took the stage and delivered like a boss. Never complained, always a gentleman, always performing like a house on fire.
“It was a magical time in the music business, and I’m endlessly appreciative for that Whitesnake experience.
“On June 23, 2022, I played Hellfest with my band in France. Whitesnake went on after us, and David was kind enough to invite me up for the last song of the night, “Still of the Night.” I’ve always loved playing that tune… and to be back on stage with David, unleashing that historic monster of a track with the band, was an honor. A few photos from that moment are below.
“Who could have guessed it would be the band’s final performance — and that I’d get to play that last song with them? There’s something beautifully poetic (and outrageously cool) about that.
“So, Brother David…
After my own 50 years of being a professional musician, here’s one thing I know for sure: the success is great, the stages are fun, the riffs are loud — but it’s the people you meet along the way, and the friendships you forge, that end up meaning the most. And for our friendship, I’m deeply grateful.
And friendship aside… your golden pipes remain this guy’s all-time favorite rock voice to ever grace the planet.“You’re a class act. You came, you conquered, and you delivered, and we are all grateful.
“S”
