India, Nov. 16 -- David Coverdale, the founder and lead singer of Whitesnake and former frontman of Deep Purple, is officially retiring. The 74-year-old made the announcement in a short video posted Thursday, saying the long run has reached its natural end.

In the clip, shared on YouTube, Coverdale held a glass in his hand and spoke directly to fans. He said that after "50 years-plus" of touring and studio work, it had become clear that it was time to close the chapter. He joked about the "rock 'n' roll platform shoes" and ruffled the shorter gray hair that has replaced the familiar long curls.

Coverdale also thanked the musicians, crews, and fans who stayed with him through each era. "It's time for me to call it a day," he said, adding...