David Coverdale biography

Synopsis

Early Life

Born on September 22, 1951 in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire, England, David Coverdale developed a love for music at a young age. Born into a family of avid music fans, he first found interest in the guitar, soon switching over to vocals. Around 14 years old, he began performing professionally and developing his famous voice.

In 1968, Coverdale was approached by local cover band The Skyliners, to join them as a vocalist. They played all over the area, from cabaret night clubs to local colleges, and opened for big names like Elkie Brooks and The Paper Dolls. Soon changing their name to The Government, the group enjoyed brief success but ultimately decided not to go professional. Soon Coverdale found a new gig with local group, The Fabulosa Brothers.

Deep Purple

In 1972, Coverdale got his big break when he saw an ad in British music magazine, Melody Maker, looking for singers for the group Deep Purple. The band, which had been together since 1968, was auditioning for a new vocalist to replace former band member Ian Gillan. Coverdale was familiar with Deep Purple from his days with The Government, and decided to try out for the part. After sending in a tape of The Fabulosa Brothers, he was invited for an audition. The band was impressed with his voice and songwriting abilities, and he was soon welcomed as the new lead vocalist. On December 8, 1973, Coverdale fronted Deep Purple for the first time in Sweden.

Within his first year with the group, Coverdale had toured all over America, with shows at Madison Square Garden, the Nassau Coliseum and, most notably, the famous California Jam festival at the Ontario Motor Speedway. The telecasted show, which included famous groups like the Eagles and Earth, Wind & Fire, attracted more than 250,000 fans, exposing the band to a widespread audience.

In February of 1974, Deep Purple released its eighth studio album, Burn, the first with the new Coverdale line-up. The album proved to be a hit certifying Gold in the United States, and still ranks among the band's best efforts. The tracks, in which new recruits Coverdale and bassist and vocalist Glenn Hughes performed lead vocals, had a new, soulful sound. The closing track, "Mistreated," included a command solo performance from Coverdale. The passionate, bluesy song would remain his personal in-concert trademark, long after his days with Deep Purple.

In December 1974, the group released their next album, Stormbringer, which also ranked Gold in both the United States and United Kingdom. The funk and soul influence of Coverdale was even more prominent in this album.