Yet another piece of dismal news has entered the rock ‘n’ roll world, as Doug Aldrich received a throat cancer diagnosis. The former guitarist for the bands, Whitesnake and Dio, received the news prior to an upcoming European tour he and the Dead Daisies were set to embark on.
Aldrich is 61 years old and is a decorated guitarist who has played with several other rock groups in addition to his time with Dio and Whitesnake. He is a member of the Metal Hall of Fame and is credited for writing Whitesnake’s award-winning album, Forevermore. He is a certified rock ‘n’ roll legend.
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The Dead Daisies Announcement
The confirmation of Aldrich’s diagnosis came on Facebook, as the Dead Daises posted the melancholic news. They wrote in the post, “We have some crappy news we’d like to share… Unfortunately, Doug has been diagnosed with a treatable throat cancer and has to undergo surgery this week.”
The group closed out the post stating, “Please join us in wishing Doug all the best for a speedy recovery” and “We look forward to having him back on deck really soon.” Even though this news seems rather morose, there are two silver linings. Aldrich’s cancer is “treatable” and the band has found a replacement for their upcoming tour.
Yes, the band also acknowledged that moving forward they will have a replacement. Aldrich’s replacement will be former Whitesnake bandmate, Reb Beach. Who played with Aldrich in Whitesnake from 2003 to 2014.
Doug Aldrich’s Colorful Musical Track Record
In addition to playing with Whitesnake and Dio, Aldrich has also played with Lion, Hurricane, House of Lords, Bad Moon Rising, and Revolution Saints. Aldrich has been playing music professionally for the majority of his life, and hopefully, this diagnosis will not slow him down.
Aldrich has been a member of the Dead Daisies since 2016 and it is the longest-standing member behind David Lowy. Surely, given the treatable nature of his illness, that will continue to be the case for years to come. The world of music is hoping for Doug Aldrich’s speedy recovery.
(Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns)
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