How did jamming with Deep Purple lead to working with Coverdale?

Joined by the immensely talented Simon Phillips, renowned drummer and guest on David Coverdale's debut solo album, "White Snake," this episode uncovers the behind-the-scenes story and memories from that time.
Back in 1976, David Coverdale had just parted ways with Deep Purple, leaving fans curious about his next move. It is during this pivotal moment that David's solo album, titled "White Snake," emerged, ultimately giving birth to the name of the band he later formed. Simon Phillips, an up-and-coming session drummer at the time, found himself embarking on a remarkable journey as he became involved with this important album.
Simon shares fascinating anecdotes about how he got involved in the project and the incredible moment when Simon first met Deep Purple's Roger Glover, the producer of "White Snake," and visited David's rock star residence.
The episode also sheds light on the recording process and the camaraderie among the artists involved. Simon reminisces about the eccentric and hilarious nature of David Coverdale and the Deep Purple crew. Steered by producer Martin Birch, the dynamic chemistry of the team is evident throughout the podcast.
As the conversation unfolds, Simon reveals that David Coverdale even offered him a spot in the newly forming band, Whitesnake. However, due to prior commitments, Simon had to decline the opportunity owing to a commitment to playing with Jack Bruce. This discussion provides a captivating glimpse into the incredibly busy period of Simon's life and showcases his dedication to his craft.
If you are a podcast listener, please subscribe to the 'VRP Rocks' podcast! Search for VRP Rocks on your podcast app of choice!

[@batphink2655]

Simon is such a cool guy and as we know probably one of the 5 best drummers on Earth there is nothing he cannot play! WOW recording at 3 different studios per day in 1976 that is incredible!

[@KONAMAN100]

Simon must have one of the best drum CV's in history. Crazy.

[@VRPRocks]

His CV really is a who's who in the world of rock isn't it!

[@delorangeade]

Whitesnake and Northwinds are possibly the most interesting things Coverdale has done, post Deep Purple. An enjoyable diversity of material it might be difficult to reproduce now. Simon also played on Flight of the Snow Moose by Gary Moore, which is a great performance by them both.

[@Venus_Isle]

Maintaining the Whitesnake connection, Simon Phillips & Jack Bruce later appeared on Bernie Marsden's "About Time Too". Hey, great segment. Phillip's memory is top notch, btw...

[@johnb2602]

Every time I watch a Simon Phillips interview, he comes across as a really nice guy. Professional, but not at all pretentious. Top bloke!

[@rettevcram2056]

Wow! So nice ! A Great drummer, Polite, friendly, …what a wonderful Time and fantastic music world it hat to be in 1976…I Love the Stories from and Interviews with Simon…big Entertainment for Music Fans ! Keep on drumming and Telling your Story, Simon! Wonderful!

[@gokhanersan8561]

I heard Simon’s work on Toto’s Tambu…that was mesmerizing.

[@DemskePaul2017]

one of the best drum sounds ever put on tape

[@steventheo69]

Wow!!!!! Your interviews are getting better and better!!!!

[@VRPRocks]

Glad you enjoy them 👍🤘

[@vintagevinylvets1187]

One of the most gifted drummers I’ve ever seen and heard in my lifetime. I’ve been hoping he’ll release an autobiography just based on his stories alone. 🎧🥁

[@markusneumann2173]

Actually he's already writing for a book. Last year I asked him how it's going and he told me he doesn't really find time. But slowly making some progress

[@christophergordon7433]

Simon played on 2 of my favorite albums. Judas Priest’s “Sin After Sin” and the first Michael Schenker Group album.

[@davidterhune8277]

I would've loved to hear him talk about working on those legendary classics

[@evanward4303]

​@davidterhune8277 yes yes yes

[@predictorleague8780]

Fantastic story! What a life that man has led

[@daisypodd]

great raconteur! could listen to him for ages..

[@DemskePaul2017]

Simon is the reason for Toto's incredible drum sound on the records he played on. Tambu in particular, sounds amazing. Love those large low drums he uses. Had no idea he had such extensive experience. I remember how young he looked on the Pete Townshend video yet he was playing long before that.

[@tomate2008]

Simon what can you say the guy's a legend.

[@sranzaric9058]

Thanks! Very, very nice

[@mifunegoh4773]

Fantastic interview! I hope you guys discussed his contribution to Judas Priest's Sin After Sin

[@journeyintothebible]

Or the time they opened for Led Zeppelin on their last show ever in America.

[@graemeyetts3465]

Thanks for this,most interesting I avidly snapped up both these albums which I really enjoyed Northwinds!

[@stormbringercoming8105]

I noticed how great Simon was when I heard Pete Townshend’s White City. He’s a beast on this album.

[@meanmetalmike666]

Ask Simon about Judas Priest Sin After Sin!

[@toddvandell85]

And he forgets to mention playing on Sin After Sin Judas Priest's 3rd album and the album they decided to just be heavy metal. 1977. I think Simon was 17. They asked him to join the band because they'd sacked Alan Moore because he couldn't play as heavy as they wanted. Simon chose not to join for the Sin AfterSin tour. So Les Binks came aboard for that tour because he played double kick and could do all of Simon's drumming live.

[@VRPRocks]

He did briefly talk about his time with Judy's Priest, but it was brief, so I've not uploaded it yet.👍🤘

[@FuturePast2019]

A wanted man. Whitesnake and Priest … early days

[@spicykimchi1]

His drumming on 'Priest's _Sin after Sin_ is incredible. Roger Clover's production on the album? Er... far from incredible.