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WHITESNAKE Members ALDRIDGE, HOEKSTRA, LUPPI, JELUSIĆ And MENDOZA To Perform As WHITESNAKE EXPERIENCE

A press conference was held last week in Belgrade, Serbia to announce the participants of the 58th Guitar Festival in Zaječar, scheduled to take place from August 28 to 30 at Kraljevica. The conference featured guests Marco Mendoza, Dino Jelusić (a.k.a. Dino Jelusick) and Ivan Keller, who announced an exclusive performance by the band WHITESNAKE EXPERIENCE BY THE MEMBERS OF WHITESNAKE — a project specially created for the Zaječar Guitar Festival. This will be the only concert in the world featuring members of the legendary band WHITESNAKE: drummer Tommy Aldridge, guitarist Joel Hoekstra, bassist Marco Mendoza, keyboardist Michele Luppi and the increasingly popular Croatian vocalist Dino Jelusić.

Mendoza emphasized that they chose to hold this unique global concert in Serbia, specifically in Zaječar, because they have always been warmly welcomed in the country and have sold out shows in Belgrade.

"Tradition and quality are very important to us, and the Guitar Festival, with its 58-year history, is something you must respect and cherish. Your audience is one of the best in the world, and I believe they will enjoy this performance with us," he said.

Dino added: "We're preparing a special setlist of WHITESNAKE's greatest hits. Singing the songs of my childhood idol David Coverdale is a special honor and pleasure for me. Although I've performed with big names in the rock world in the meantime, WHITESNAKE's songs suit me best, and playing with such a fantastic group of musicians is pure hedonism for me."

Coverdale gave his approval for this project, adding a special exclusivity to the Guitar Festival. As a result, a large number of visitors from Serbia and the region are expected.

In a November 2023 interview with Chris Akin Presents, Jelusić, who was enlisted by WHITESNAKE for its last European tour, was asked if there was any truth to the rumor that he was brought in to assist David Coverdale with the lead vocals on the trek. He responded: "Well, since there's no official statement on what everybody was guessing… And I was actually hearing a lot of stories from behind that I'm actually brought in to replace [David]. He never really officially asked me, but I heard from a very close person that he kind of was thinking about that. So I don't wanna say that it is like that 'cause I heard it from a close person, so I don't wanna state that.

"But, to me, WHITESNAKEisDavid Coverdale, and I would never wanna take that spot, to be honest with you," Dino continued. "I don't wanna be a little, young guy that sounds great singing David Coverdale songs. I am myself and I wanna do stuff myself. I wanna do it with my own songs.

"David CoverdaleisWHITESNAKE, and if the band should end because he wants to retire, the band should end because he wants to retire," Jelusić explained. "'Cause this way you can find somebody to replace Steven Tyler, somebody to replace Robert Plant, and the bands can just go on and on and on. I don't think that's the point.

"I sang a lot, obviously, live. If you came to see WHITESNAKE, you noticed — you could notice that. I sang 'Slide It In' half-half with him, and I covered a lot of ground, along with Michele [Luppi], the keyboard player. So there was a lot of work; it was a lot of work. And I enjoyed the tour. We had a great time with [European tourmates] FOREIGNER and EUROPE, both bands that I love. And, yeah, it was really cool."

Jelusić was previously a member of the multi-platinum-selling band TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA and DIRTY SHIRLEY (with George Lynch),ANIMAL DRIVE and recorded with many others. Dino has been singing, touring and recording since the age of five. Other than being a frontman, his main instrument are keyboards but he also plays bass, guitar and drums. He finished music academy and did theater work.

When Jelusić's addition to WHITESNAKE was first announced in July 2021, David said in a statement: "I am absolutely delighted to welcome the extremely gifted Dino Jelusick to WHITESNAKE. We've had our eyes and ears on him since we played Zagreb together two years ago. You're going to love him!"

In October 2021, Coverdale spoke about Dino's addition to WHITESNAKE, telling Antihero Magazine: "He's going to be the way I have two guitar players.

"I've always seen WHITESNAKE as an orchestra," he explained. "I don't see it as a band-band. I don't want two guitarists playing exactly the same song, or just harmony guitars, I want two opposing… you've got the incendiary Joel Hoekstra, entirely different to the electrifying Reb Beach. And this is not to overwhelm Michele. Michele's totally secure. I adore him and what he brings to WHITESNAKE.

"In 2019, Dino's band opened for us in Zagreb, and this is very rare for me, and I went, 'Who the fuck is that?' And I was going, 'Wow, that kid's great.' And Joel said, 'Yeah, I worked with him in the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA. He's a great guy.' And I said, 'That guy's a 'Snake', dude.' And I said, 'Don't say anything yet. I'm going to keep my eyes and ears on him.'

"So, I think it's going to be fantastic," Coverdale added. "I'm going to have an orchestra of keyboards for a lot of songs on WHITESNAKE which are big epics, that make them even more musically orchestrated without having an orchestra on stage with us.

"I mean, the guy's great, I can't wait to sing with him. I already have [two] singers who are good enough to be frontman singers, with Michele Luppi and Reb Beach; they are really great singers. What's wrong with having another one? And I think he's a super guy… It's got to be exciting to me and adding another spice to an already good cocktail."

WHITESNAKE canceled several European shows in the summer of 2022 and pulled out of a North American tour with the SCORPIONS due to David's "continued treatment for a persistent upper respiratory infection."

In May 2023, Coverdale told Ultimate Classic Rock that the illness that forced him off the road in 2022 was "the worst sinus infection I've ever had in my life. And as a singer, I know them like fucking relatives of mine," Coverdale said. "This was one of the ugliest illnesses I think I've [ever] had. For seven months, I was taking ever-increasingly strong antibiotics and horrifying prednisone steroids."

WHITESNAKE launched its farewell tour on May 10, 2022 at Dublin, Ireland's 3Arena. The band's 14-song set, which was part of a European tour with special guests EUROPE and co-headliners FOREIGNER, marked WHITESNAKE's inaugural performance with the group's two latest two additions, Jelusić and bassist Tanya O'Callaghan.

Coverdale had both his knees replaced with titanium in 2017 after suffering from degenerative arthritis. He later explained that he was in so much pain with arthritis in his knees that it hampered his ability to perform live.

Prior to the pandemic, WHITESNAKE had been touring in support of its latest album, "Flesh & Blood", which was released in May 2019 via Frontiers Music Srl.

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Why is Don Jamieson the Last National Act to Play This Iconic Club?

Seth Williams and Chris Akin aren't here to play by the rules or read from a corporate script. In this raw, unedited session, the guys are joined by special guest and comedian Don Jamieson to pull back the curtain on the "death" of the legendary Funny Stop. Between Seth’s "swollen ball syndrome" updates and the arrival of restaurant reporter Tony Musachio from the new and improved SHOOTERS, this is the high-octane chaos the mainstream media is too terrified to broadcast. If you want the truth from a comedy veteran who has seen it all, you’re in the right place.

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DEAD ARTIST LAWSUITS & AIRPLANE SEAT SQUATTERS! (Audio)

Why is everyone still suing Michael Jackson's estate? Neeley and Chris are giving their honest take on the skepticism surrounding the latest legal battle and reviewing the trailer for the upcoming MICHAEL biopic. We're also talking about the tragedy of the woman who fell off the cruise ship and the infuriating new trend of "seat squatting" on planes. Finally, CMS Producer Weezie honors our lost friend, Bob Nalbandian. Share and follow for the metal-fueled truth! Get commercial-free episodes by joining Rumble Premium at https://rumble.com/premium. Hail and Kill! Join the rebellion!

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Agnostic Front BASSIST on DMC & Their Bold New Sound! (Audio)

Seriously, how do you keep your music fresh when you're a band with a decades-long history? It's tough! Chris chats with Agnostic Front bassist Mike Gallo about their latest, ECHOES OF ETERNITY. They talk about the killer sound improvements, what it was like working with a legend like DMC for the first time, and the guts it takes to try new things as a legacy act. Don't just listen—hit that share button, follow us, and subscribe to Rumble Premium for more! Hail and Kill! Join the rebellion!

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LEMMY SMASHES MIXING BOARD! KING DIAMOND'S $26K HANDOUT! (Audio)

What’s crazier: Lemmy destroying a multi-million dollar mixing board with a cheeseburger, or King Diamond getting $26,000 a year from his government just for being an artist? Neeley and Chris tackle these wild metal stories! We also review George Lynch's new single, which he released after admitting he totally lied about retiring. Hint: the guys are NOT impressed. Plus, check out the insane guitar talent from a young private school student. Like, follow, and share this video! Get commercial-free episodes and more by joining Rumble Premium at https://rumble.com/premium. Hail and Kill! Join the rebellion!

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LEMMY SMASHES MIXING BOARD! KING DIAMOND'S $26K HANDOUT! (Audio)
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Sepultura Guitar Legend Andreas Kisser Drops Bombshell: Farewell Tour Might Not Be The End After All

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In a stunning twist that has metal fans buzzing with excitement, Sepultura co-founder and legendary guitarist Andreas Kisser has left the door wide open for future performances by the iconic Brazilian thrash metal pioneers, even as the band prepares to close the chapter on its historic career with a massive farewell tour.

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Kisser, who has been the driving force behind Sepultura's signature sound for decades, made the revelation during a candid interview, sending shockwaves through the heavy music community. While the group is currently in the midst of its emotional "Sepultura Farewell Tour," which has seen them delivering blistering performances across the globe to loyal fans who have supported them since the late 1980s, Kisser emphasized that nothing is set in stone when it comes to the band's future.

"Possibilities are always open," Kisser stated, refusing to completely shut down the idea of additional shows or special appearances once the official farewell run concludes. His comments come as a surprise to many who assumed the tour marked the definitive end of live Sepultura performances, especially following years of lineup changes and the band's evolution from its raw underground roots to becoming one of the most influential acts in the metal genre.

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Sepultura burst onto the international scene in the mid-1980s, quickly establishing themselves as leaders of the thrash metal movement alongside bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. With groundbreaking albums such as "Beneath the Remains," "Arise," and "Chaos A.D.," the group helped put Brazilian metal on the map and influenced countless musicians worldwide. The departure of original frontman Max Cavalera in 1996 led to a new era with Derrick Green taking over vocal duties, a lineup that has delivered powerful records and maintained the band's aggressive edge for nearly three decades.

The current farewell tour has been a celebration of the band's entire legacy, blending classics from the Cavalera era with later material that showcases their continued innovation and resilience. Fans have packed venues to witness what many believed would be their final chances to see Sepultura unleash their signature groove-laden riffs and intense live energy. Yet Kisser's latest remarks suggest that the spirit of Sepultura could live on in some capacity, whether through one-off reunions, festival appearances, or even surprise collaborations.

Metal insiders speculate that Kisser's openness could stem from the overwhelmingly positive response the tour has received, or perhaps a desire to keep the creative flame alive without the pressure of a full-time commitment. The guitarist has long been known for his passionate approach to music, collaborating on various projects outside Sepultura while remaining fiercely dedicated to the band's core identity.

For die-hard supporters, the news offers a glimmer of hope amid the bittersweet farewell. Will there be encore dates? Special anniversary shows? A potential return to the studio? While Kisser stopped short of making any firm promises, his words have reignited discussions across forums and social media about what the future might hold for one of metal's most enduring forces.

As the farewell tour continues its global trek, fans are urged to catch Sepultura live while they can, but with Kisser's hint at endless possibilities, the metal world is now wondering if this "goodbye" is truly the final curtain call or simply a pause before the next explosive chapter. The thrash legends have defied expectations before, and it seems they might just do it again.

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W.A.S.P. Guitar Legend Chris Holmes Forced to Cancel Major 2026 Tour Over Surprise Prostate Health Scare

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Rock music fans were left stunned this week after veteran guitarist Chris Holmes, best known for his fiery tenure with the iconic heavy metal band W.A.S.P., announced the abrupt cancellation of his highly anticipated May 2026 tour dates. The news came as a shock to longtime supporters who had been eagerly awaiting the chance to see the legendary axe-slinger back on stage delivering his signature blistering solos and raw energy.

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According to statements surrounding the decision, the cancellation stems from a minor prostate issue that requires immediate medical attention and recovery time. While the condition has been described as non-life-threatening and relatively minor, it has proven serious enough to sideline Holmes during what was shaping up to be a triumphant return to the road. Insiders close to the situation emphasize that the guitarist is prioritizing his long-term health to ensure he can continue performing at the high level fans have come to expect for decades.

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Holmes first rose to prominence in the early 1980s as a key member of W.A.S.P., contributing to some of the band's most celebrated albums and helping define the sound of American heavy metal during its golden era. His aggressive playing style, combined with the group's controversial image and theatrical live shows, made them a staple of the metal scene. Even after parting ways with W.A.S.P., Holmes continued to carve out a solo career and make guest appearances, maintaining a dedicated following that spans generations.

The canceled tour was expected to feature a mix of classic W.A.S.P. material alongside newer original compositions, promising high-octane nights filled with thunderous riffs, soaring leads, and the kind of no-holds-barred performances that built Holmes' reputation. Venues across multiple cities had already begun promoting the shows, with tickets selling briskly among fans hungry for a dose of old-school metal fury. Now, those dates have been wiped from the calendar, leaving many disappointed but hopeful for future rescheduling once Holmes receives the all-clear from his doctors.

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In a genre where performers often push their bodies to the limit through years of intense touring, late-night gigs, and the physical demands of shredding on stage, health setbacks like this serve as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities even the toughest rock icons face. Prostate issues, while common among men as they age, can still catch anyone off guard, and Holmes' decision to step back proactively has been praised by some in the community as a smart move rather than risking further complications.

Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, sharing memories of epic concerts and expressing optimism that the guitarist will bounce back stronger than ever. Many are already speculating about potential makeup dates later in 2026 or 2027, with some suggesting special "recovery tour" events that could turn the situation into a celebratory comeback.

The metal world has a long history of resilience, with countless artists overcoming injuries, illnesses, and personal challenges to return to the stage even more determined. Holmes, known for his larger-than-life persona and unapologetic attitude, is expected to follow that tradition once he navigates this temporary hurdle. Updates on his condition and any revised touring plans are anticipated in the coming weeks as he focuses on treatment and rehabilitation.

For now, the rock community stands united in wishing Chris Holmes a swift and full recovery. In an industry built on power, volume, and endurance, this pause underscores that even the hardest hitters sometimes need to hit the brakes to keep the music playing for years to come. As one fan aptly put it online, "Get well soon, brother — the stage isn't the same without that Holmes fire."

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Whitesnake & Night Ranger Guitar Legend Joel Hoekstra Joins Stephen Pearcy's Solo Band For Massive 2026 Tour

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Rock music fans have reason to celebrate as guitar virtuoso Joel Hoekstra is set to bring his blistering talent to Stephen Pearcy's solo band for an electrifying 2026 tour. The announcement has sent waves of excitement through the hard rock community, promising high-octane performances that blend the raw energy of Ratt with the technical prowess Hoekstra has honed across decades in the industry.

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Hoekstra, renowned for his work with Whitesnake and Night Ranger, brings an impressive resume that includes powerhouse riffs and soaring solos capable of filling arenas. His addition to Pearcy's lineup marks a significant moment for fans who have long admired the intersection of these classic rock worlds. Pearcy, the iconic frontman of Ratt, has been captivating audiences with his solo projects, delivering hits like "Round and Round" alongside fresh material that keeps the spirit of '80s metal alive.

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The collaboration is expected to deliver a setlist packed with fan favorites from both artists' catalogs, along with potential surprises that could redefine live rock experiences in the coming year. Hoekstra's dynamic style—characterized by precision, speed, and melodic flair—perfectly complements Pearcy's charismatic stage presence and gritty vocal delivery. Together, they are poised to create nights of unforgettable music that celebrate the golden era of hard rock while pushing boundaries into 2026.

Industry insiders suggest this pairing could spark renewed interest in classic metal tours, drawing crowds from longtime devotees and newer generations discovering these legends for the first time. Hoekstra's tenure with Whitesnake saw him contribute to major releases and world tours, solidifying his status as one of rock's most versatile guitarists. Similarly, his time in Night Ranger highlighted his ability to craft anthemic tracks that resonate in stadiums.

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Stephen Pearcy's solo endeavors have already proven successful, with energetic shows that honor Ratt's legacy while allowing room for personal expression. Adding Hoekstra to the mix elevates the project, creating a supergroup-like atmosphere without the formal title. Fans can anticipate explosive guitar work intertwined with Pearcy's signature swagger, making each performance a must-see event.

As tour dates begin to surface, anticipation continues to build. This partnership not only reunites elements of rock history but also introduces fresh chemistry that could lead to new studio collaborations down the line. For those who grew up on the sounds of Whitesnake's "Here I Go Again" or Ratt's chart-topping anthems, the 2026 tour offers a rare chance to experience these influences live in one powerhouse package.

The hard rock scene has seen its share of revivals, but few feel as authentic and exciting as this one. Joel Hoekstra's involvement signals a commitment to delivering top-tier musicianship, ensuring that Stephen Pearcy's solo band will dominate stages across the country and beyond. Keep an eye on official announcements for exact dates and venues—tickets are sure to vanish quickly once they drop.

With the rock world buzzing, this news reaffirms why classic metal remains timeless. The fusion of Hoekstra's technical mastery and Pearcy's rock 'n' roll attitude is set to ignite 2026 like few other tours can. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this is one road show you won't want to miss.

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