In a recent episode of the Rock of Nations with Dave and Shane podcast, David Coverdale, former Deep Purple frontman, discussed his tenure with the band and the relationships he established with fellow band members.
The musician spoke about his intention to create an internet video with Glenn Hughes, the group’s ex-bassist. Remembering the latter joining the band a few months before himself, he stated that their relationship grew strong, leading them to self-identify as the ‘unrighteous brothers.’ The vocalist expressed his deep respect and affection for his friend, underlining the supportive nature of their relationship.
The conversation also veered towards Ritchie Blackmore, whom Coverdale described as being somewhat aloof when it came to modern technology. Despite this, the singer maintained contact with the guitarist, even extending birthday wishes to him recently. He also credited Blackmore and the late Jon Lord as his most significant mentors, comparing them to ‘university professors’ from whom he learned a great deal.
His words about his friends went as follows:
“Trying to get Glenn Hughes up so we could just do a video for the internet to talk about our… You know, he was in Deep Purple before – a couple of months before I got the job. But we became the unrighteous brothers, and we have a super supportive relationship. I love him dearly, he’s a bluebird. He’s an extraordinarily gifted man.
He’s the one other than Ritchie, who I have dialogued with his very beautiful wife because Ritchie won’t tap. You don’t talk to Ritchie about technology. [Laughs] His wife will do his emails for him. We have stayed in touch; I wished him a happy birthday recently. He’s extraordinary. He and Jon Lord, God rest his soul, are the best university professors I could have ever wished for in order to sit at their feet and learn.”
While the ‘unrighteous brothers’ and Blackmore have since moved on, Deep Purple continues to take the stage. Coverdale bid goodbye to his fans with a farewell tour with Whitesnake in 2022, while the other two continue to make music with their respective bands, The Dead Daisies and Rainbow.
