Interview: David Coverdale of Whitesnake Speaks with Mark Derricutt
/
By Mark Derricutt
The decade is over and I can't help but read comment after comment, tweet after tweet about the changes those around me have been through and grown from. And invariably I find myself dwelling on those of my own - health, relationships, work, podcasting, returning to photography and joining the team here at Libel. Looking over it all there's a constant that permeates it all, that something keeps things fun and drives me to continue on. So here I go again, going down the only road I've ever known. That long endearing love of melodic hard rock/metal - and if that cheesy line doesn't give it away, I managed to catch up with David Coverdale from long standard rockers Whitesnake - to discuss life on the road and their upcoming show with The Scorpions.
As a band, what do you attribute to the longevity and continued success over the years?
Focusing on solid songs with themes that people of all ages can identify with… and our absolute enthusiasm for what we do…keeping it ‘real’.
Over those years, the band has seen its fair share of roster changes with the current lineup sounding both fresh, energetic and creative as ever. Do you ever find yourself thinking about putting the band to rest again or can we expect the 'snake’ to be eternal?
My wife has banned me from saying the word ‘retirement’ anymore. So I really can’t say…I think the music will last pretty well…it’s our legacy.
How has touring life changed over the years, beyond the obvious bigger venues/light shows that fans see? Is it all business on the road or is there still an element of the "rock star party life"?
As I’m three score and eight years old and take what I do very seriousIy,I don’t think you’re gonna find me in the hotel bar at 3 am. Well…if there’s a show that night…ahem…
When it comes to arena shows or more intimate club shows - any preferences?
We're like the Stones. We like pretty much any size venues. We can make arenas feel intimate, I assure you.
As artists who've been in the business for a long time - how do you feel / what do you think on the modern model of free streaming, the death of CDs and the re-emergence of vinyl and the age old problems of piracy?
Well, we are still selling physical CDs as well as every piece of vinyl we release. We have an amazing hard core fan base that is very, very supportive of us. Digital is good for us, too… no complaints. Obviously there are question marks regarding the integrity of some of the royalty aspects. The big streamers pay the majors, but the majors aren’t always fairly passing the appropriate royalties on to the artist. There’s always been an unsavoury imbalance with corporates and artists. As I said, I am very fortunate with my partners - we work together very well. Warners / Rhino are a great team, they know what they’re doing and they know how to treat an artist respectfully.
"Shut up and Kiss Me" - I remember this popping up on Frontiers Records YouTube channel when it was released. I was immediately grabbed by the riffs, solos and video aesthetics - fast cars, beautiful women, and ballsy rock'n'roll! It was a refreshing throw back to the 80s with modern production. The title lyric also grabbed me somewhat as almost a phrase of consent, inviting - something of a refreshing change compared to some artists these days. "Always and forever" also comes with relationship positive/love ballad lyrics. How much importance do you put on story in your songs - lyrics first or music?
I feel our songs are the strength of the band. Couple that with amazing musicians and singers and it’s quite the winning combination. With me it works both ways - I have a very active Muse who is always giving me ideas. No rest for the ever so wicked!!
Vocally/musically, the band is sounding as strong as ever on this new record. Any tips/tricks for keeping your voice/playing sounding so good in the studio and on the road?
I back off on dehydrating alcohol…unfortunately!! But it’s of paramount importance to me to give the best I can for our audience. I have an incredibly inspiring band; we kick each other’s arse to get the best out of each other. Very consistent, always fun. We’re a lucky band in many ways.
I've heard some artists/journalists saying "rock is dead" lately, but it's clear from listening to "Flesh and Blood" and all the other great artists on the Frontiers Records roster that rock, especially melodic hard rock is well and truly alive. You've been with Frontiers for the last 3 albums (Forevermore, The Purple Album, Flesh and Blood) how has it been since moving over?
Fucking ‘trending’ nonsense. We are living proof that rock ain’t dead.
You're heading here to New Zealand with Scorpions, the first time since (I believe ) 2008's "Rock to Wellington". What can fans expect to hear? More modern material or the classics? Or a mix?
I never tell what the setlist is going to be. I ask our followers on social media not to tell people what songs we’re playing. I love when I see the surprise on people’s faces when we start a particular song- it adds to the magic of the moment.
Any messages or final words?
I prefer message over ‘final words’. Yes…we are so fucking excited to be coming back after all these years. I’m bringing my wife and son as they’ve never seen how beautiful your country is and how hospitable you all are…Yes…It’s gonna be FUN!!!
SCORPIONS AND WHITESNAKE NEW ZEALAND TOUR 2020
SPARK ARENA, AUCKLAND
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 27
Tickets via Ticketmaster