But that doesn't mean he's slowing down � the veteran vocalist has big plans for the coming year, including work with former bandmates Glenn Hughes and Bernie Marsden, plus an unplugged album.

Coverdale tells Metal Shrine: "My last long tour was in 2011 and you're going to see shorter ones now. I want to make sure I have the physical energy and power to be able to present shows as people want to see me. If I commit to a nine-month tour, I don't think I'm going to be able to deliver.

"I'm 61 years old and I'm in great shape � but I'm still 61 years old. It's going to be shorter tours and stuff."