Whitesnake bassist Tanya O’Callaghan recently addressed misconceptions about touring with a woman in an Instagram post, sharing her experiences and perspective on the topic.
In the caption of a video from their tour flights, O’Callaghan wrote, “Recently, someone asked one of my bandmates, ‘What’s it like being in a band with Tanya?’ and what was being insinuated was more like, ‘It must be hard to be in a band with a woman?’ As if that’s inherently complicated. I’ve heard this so many times over the years and it made me giggle because, after nearly 20 years on the road with A LOT of bands, I can confidently say: It’s always dudes that bring any drama if it occurs, and I say that lovingly, my brothers.”
Describing her role on the road, she added, “And if you follow me to the gym, I will absolutely stretch the s#*t out of you and teach you some yoga moves too. Basically, I’m a terrible berry influence if you don’t want to be healthy. I’ve spent so much time on the road with guys, I have ‘band mom’ mode. ‘Did you eat some veggies today? How’s everyone doing mentally? Let’s go for a walk and stretch it out.’ Unbelievably un-rock-n-roll, I know.”
O’Callaghan joined Whitesnake in November 2021, replacing former bassist Michael Devin shortly after his departure was announced. She performed with the band during their farewell tour the following year.
On June 28, 2022, Whitesnake canceled three shows on its European tour due to David Coverdale’s sinus and trachea infections. Days later, the band called off the rest of the tour.
It remains unclear if the band will resume the tour, but O’Callaghan hinted it’s possible, noting that Coverdale is gradually recovering.
