"My friendship with Doug started when he was playing with my dear friend, Ronnie Dio," says Hughes. "Ronnie would always introduce me to his bandmates who were always family. So, on a fateful night in May 2010, I was playing at a festival in Bologna, Italy. I asked Doug if he would like to join me to play a couple of Deep Purple songs. We went into my dressing room and went over the arrangements of the songs, and we were good to go. I introduced Doug to the stage, and we performed for the audience. It felt natural and full of energy.

"Doug is a world class guitar player and bona fide Rock Star. I was impressed with Doug's demeanor, both on and off the stage, hard-working, kind and loving, all the qualities that one needs to fulfill a fruitful life. Our friendship continued as Doug joined Whitesnake, and I was happy knowing that my brother David Coverdale, would nurture Doug's talent, and give him the love to share with ROCK fans globally."

The duo reconnected recently, which opened the door for an invite to Aldrich to hit the road with Hughes. "On the fifth anniversary of Ronnie's passing," explains the bassist, "I connected with Doug again, and we chose to talk and remember how much we loved and missed him. We both asked what we were doing musically, and then out of the blue I asked him if he would like to come and play with me and do some shows. The answer was... I'm in!

"We are both very excited to bring the love to ROCK fans, and carry the message that ROCK is alive. For me, it's time to get back onstage, it's where I belong... see you soon!"