Hagar admits the VH/Roth reunion tour was “outta sight”, but asks “why didn’t they just keep Mike?”
Friday, 15 August 2008
TheTourBus.com has recently interviewed Sammy Hagar, and today they posted just a quick, 90 second clip from it, when they asked Sammy what he thought about the Van Halen/David Lee Roth reunion.
Sammy Hagar: “The reunion with Dave was the greatest thing they could have done. I think it was so outta sight. But why didn’t they just keep Mike just one more time?”
Filed under: Michael Anthony, Sammy Hagar, Van Halen
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August 15th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Many of us ask the same question.
August 15th, 2008 at 1:41 pm
I agree. Wolfgang was a load of my ass.
August 15th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
Many of us know the answer to that question, and its both stupid that Hagar asks it and others ask it. We all know why, Mike did it to himself.
August 15th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Its obivious Eddie wanted to promote his son…What father wouldn’t. I can tell you that I would like to have seen the original line - up…AND I HOPE THEY DO IT AGAIN!!!!!!
It was awesome to see Dave, Eddie, and Alex again. Wolfgang was good too. I met Dave backstage at the Hollywood Sportatorium [South Florida] in 1986 during the MTV mananger for a weekend-He is something else.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
Of course, I would have loved to have seen Mike up there on stage. I never got to see the original four live in concert so this is what was available. Wolfgang did a pretty good job.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:30 pm
It’s nice to finally hear Sammy admit that touring with Roth was “the greatest thing they could have done.” That last tour was the certainly the best Van Halen tour that I’ve seen since the 1984 tour. It was a dream come true. Wolfgang did fine.
Yet, I’m sure that the vast majority of VH fans would agree that it would have been even better if Michael Anthony was there!
August 15th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
Honestly, what Sammy Hagar says is the last thing that interest me! I really don’t care about his opinion.
Yeah, I would have loved to see Mike on stage with them, but I also would have loved they would have done the reunion much earlier, I would have love to see them go on in 1984 instead of splitting, etc etc etc
I was pretty sure VH was finished before they announced this reunion, so to me, it’s a gift, and while I was there, I drank only 2 beers, just to make sure I was all there, and to sherish the moment while it was happening.
That’s the way I see things. And during the show, I’ve closed my eyes, and honestly, saying that Mike’s presence would have made a big difference in the whole is being dishonest. Wolfgang can sing in harmony VERY well. So well, people thought it was pre recorded!
My ultimate dream would be: Wolfgang on rythm guitar and Mike on bass. Then the songs would sound exactly like on the studio versions.
But hey, that’s my 2 cents.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Im sure, as many of you, that wolfgang is VERY talented…but its a matter of MA deserving to be there…he payed his dues, he stuck with all the BS that came his way, even taking a paycut in the 2004 tour…
August 15th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
1. Mike is too close to Sammy. Neither Dave or Ed can stand Sammy. So someting had to give. One too many intangibles involved to keep the cohesion together for the tour after so mnany yeasrs of tension between Dave and Ed…… Sorry Mikey you chose to be on the wrong team.
2. IMO, If Wolfie was not in there, I seriously believe Ed would have relapsed farther than he did in April. I think the kid did okay and help keep things on-evened keel within the band. Just needs to work on his stage presence though. Van Halen has to grow to continue….otherwise they will turn into the Beach Boys
August 15th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
“Many of us know the answer to that question, and its both stupid that Hagar asks it and others ask it. We all know why, Mike did it to himself.”
Ummmmmm…..no he didn’t. What possibly makes you think he did that? I swear to God the next person that responds with “all the shit he did with Sammy,” gets a virtual interwebz punch in the ballz. No he didn’t do it to himself, it was Eddie’s call. Period. Eddie can reason however he wants, but Mikey never wanted out. Deal with it. PopRip had a GREAT idea of Wolfie being on as rhythm guitar while Mikey stays on bass and backup vocal. That could have opened the door to a legitimate passing of the guard from Father to Son. Dueling solos would have rocked! No matter who sings, Eddie and Wolfie on guitars would just kick ass!
August 15th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
Wolfgang step up to the plate. MA is a great part of the history of VH and will always have a place in time. I have to say even without MA - what a show. Thanks VH
August 15th, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Joe 2
“1. Mike is too close to Sammy. Neither Dave or Ed can stand Sammy. So someting had to give. One too many intangibles involved to keep the cohesion together for the tour after so mnany yeasrs of tension between Dave and Ed…… Sorry Mikey you chose to be on the wrong team”
That is a better way to put it than what I first quoted about him doing it to himself. (Shoulda read that one before I posted.) How you word it, makes sense. EXCEPT he wasn’t choosing sides though. VH wasn’t doing anything, and his buddy Sammy wanted to him to play with him and his band. Eddie just didn’t like that and the whole “Other Half” thing they did. Which was awesome by the way. I don’t blame Eddie for being pissed about the name either, he’s right. Alex is the Other Half of Van Halen. Actually now, he’s 1/3 VH.
August 15th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
I was glad to see Wolfgang up there. He did a great job. If anything when they were in Dallas, Eddie was the one that left something to be desired. He was missing notes all over the place and sloppy. I have seen them since the early 80’s, and that was the first time I left a show disappointed with his playing. The rest of the band sounded awesome.
As far as Michael Anthony, I did miss his bass solo. That waste of time and noise in lieu of actual music was always a great opportunity to take a piss and get a fresh beer.
August 15th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
GOOD IDEA ALL OF THEM TOGETHER BUT EDDIE PLAYS RHYTHM
August 15th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
First off I will say is I did see the 2007/2008 tour and I did enjoy it, but I would of enjoyed it even more if Michael would have been in the fold. Wolfgang did a good job but he is no Michael Anthony. The only thing Michael Anthony did to get cut from the band was put up with all the BS for over 25 years. From Dave quitting or being fired to Sammy quitting or being fired to Gary “just parting ways”. He has put up with so much bull and keeping his mouth shut so he would not upset anyone. Mike has been the piece maker for the band for years. The only thing he did wrong was wanting to play weather it be on the road or in the studio so when the opportunity presented itself he took it because he hated just sitting on his ass waiting to see what was going to happen next with Van Halen. Van Halen had done one new album and two tours in 6 years. they toured in 1998 and 2004 other than that they did nothing. Eddie was upset because Michael was touring with Sammy and they played music he helped write from both Dave and Sammy eras. I saw the tour he and I enjoyed it a lot. Michael was playing songs that had not seen the light of day since they wee played on the original tour they were played. Eddie did not want Mike on the tour because he was upset Michael was not waiting for a call and that he finely did something on his own and Eddie hates that. Why do you think the band keeps going though all the changes. Eddie he likes to control everything even personal lives.
August 15th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
I find all of this M Anthony talk to be so funny.
Van Halen’s fans are guitar fans. They claim to appreciate good playing and technique.
So why the fuss about Mike? A 16 year kid can outmatch him on bass, and cover his vocals - plus he’s a VAN HALEN. Does it get any more simple than that? Put yourself in Ed’s place.
Ed is one of the greatest guitarists of all time, suffering through one of the most limited bass players ever to make tape. (Everyone reading this post can play M Anthony’s parts with 10 minutes rehearsal/song).
So if ANYONE can play the part, why not your own son?
M Anthony’s partnership with the Red Rocker (doesn’t that make you cringe) isn’t the reason, its that Mike made himself easily replacable - by his own hand or because he was held back –but the record stands. He’s expendable on bass and vocals.
So if all you’re missing is his bass solo and his stage antics, then nothing can please you.
Van Halen fans got to see Ed happy with his group, rather than wanting to bust a guitar over a tool’s head while sharing his salary with his croney.
August 15th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
I talked to Ed before the second show in Greensboro…it was just after they did soundcheck…he was GLOWING with pride over Wolfie…first thing he said to me “hey..did you see Wolf? What did you think? Kid can play huh?”…and yes, the kid can play. Wolfie is the future of the band Van Halen…it’s his name…he’s family…he can play drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and can sing.
Enjoy what you’ve got right now with Van Halen while Ed, Alex, and Dave are still around…but once they’ve gone I think the band and the name will live on with Wolfie…and I think that’s what Ed wants.
Without Wolfie, I’m not sure you would have even seen Van Halen out on the road again.
I like all of the guys, Sammy + Mike included…will always be a huge fan of both…it’s just great to see Ed happy and out playing again…whoever he’s with.
August 15th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Michael who?
August 15th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
The original line up would of been great to see but I consider myself so lucky to have seen them at all. And I did get to see VH and in the same month Sammy & Michael in concert also(10-07) so that is pretty lucky too.
August 15th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
** Sorry Mikey you chose to be on the wrong team ***
Well, I’m sure it’s a little tough to swallow when the decision came from the guy who went behind his former lead-singer’s back (Hagar) to start collaborating with the band’s original lead singer (Roth) back in 96. I guess Ed’s decided that he can screw over anyone he wants but MA had better hang out with whoever Eddie tells him to. Shame on him for working while Ed & Al were doing nothing.
***Van Halen has to grow to continue….otherwise they will turn into the Beach Boys***
I love VH. I loved VH with Dave, with Sammy & even appreciated Gary (he’s good & gave the fans the classics, that CD blew). But, let’s face it, Van Halen is now a nostalgia band. The last ‘hit’ was minor at best, “It’s about time” & prior to that was from ’98s CD with Cherone, folks.
August 15th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Mike’s bass solo was a total waste of time in the 80’s. The only reference I have is the Live Without a Net tape, so if anyone can prove otherwise, please do. The one on tape is just plain terrible. Live Right Here Right Now was great though. I think if they gave him more than 1:45 on the 04 tour it would have been good too. Wolfie is a kid. His string prowess and stage presence can (and of course WILL) only get better. If Eddie and Alex can hang around long enough, there is going to be some seriously awesome VH shit in about 5-10 years. I’m calling it now. They’ll probably do some cool shit sooner, but I’m telling you in 5-10…look the fuck out.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Hagar admits he hates Edward, ergo anything he says is just disposable self publicity(just like his brand of soft rock fodder and tequila) and anti VH.
Mike freely left the band,he wasn;t kicked out, ergo not in VH ….he could have returned but didn’t because he really doesn’t want too.
Mike thought Edward would die of cancer, ergo mike splits to do the Hagar/Roth tour in 2002.
Warner Bros wanted Roth back in 2004 but Mike wanted Hagar, ergo Warner Bros drops VH and Mike signs away his future rights To Van Halen so that Hagar could sing in 2004.
Mike doesn’t like Dave.
Mike prefers Van Hagar over classic era VH.
Coincidence that when Mike isn’t around, Roth rejoins and stays in?…no.
I’d rather see Wolfgang on bass then a Billy Sheehan etc….this was the right thing to do.
But, they should have done a new record first.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:35 pm
Sammy is a total knob.
August 15th, 2008 at 10:42 pm
It’s great reading the frustration about Mike not being in the current lineup! I know how you feel because for the last 23 years I have been frustrated with Van Halen not having Dave as the lead singer and having to listen to Sammy Hagar and lets not forget Gary Cherone fronting the band. Give me a break…..deal with it! Bitch all you want like I did for 23 years or find the silver lining and enjoy what’s in front of you now!
August 16th, 2008 at 12:02 am
I think the best tour was the 2004 tour, the song selection was won of the best that they ever put together. It would be great to see everyone involved with Van Halen to forget about the past and put together a tour with Dave,Wolfgang, Eddie and Alex for and hour and a half, then let Gary come out and sing for half an hour,then have Sammy, Michel, Eddie,and Alex finish what they started and kick some ASS for and hour and a half.
August 16th, 2008 at 2:07 am
As DLR so perfectly said; “Meet us in the future…. not in the PASTure”. This what VH is today and I freakin’ love it. One can only hope for a new CD with DLR, EVH, AVH, and the wolf!
August 16th, 2008 at 2:15 am
mike is the best
August 16th, 2008 at 6:28 am
Why don’t you all get a grip! Yeah - it was a bummer that Mikey didn’t make it on the Roth tour, but going by concert reviews I’ve read Wolfie did a great job! So he lacks some stage presence, hello….. he’s only 16 years old! That’s something which will come with experience. You fans in the US should be greatful Dave & Eddie finally decided to get their shit together to pull off this tour. VH have a tonne of fans down here in Australia who would kill to see the current line up (live). I’m totally hangin’ for that supposed live DVD in the works. Rock on Dave, Eddie, Wolfie & Alex…….
August 16th, 2008 at 7:18 am
Ed’s ego is bigger than this planet, he’s an asshole who can play great. He better go play his guitar, make a new album and just shut the fuck up!
August 16th, 2008 at 8:26 am
Mike or no mike, when the hell is Van Halen gonna get back down to Australia???? They’ve only been here once in 98 with Cherone.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:27 am
wow, so many comments about MA, especially from sammy, he’s definately good at keeping his name out there. Its funny that he puts out a comment when he is also promoting himself. New tequila and new blurb about VH? As to MA being let go Eddie was upset with him since Fair Warning, he never got better as a Bass Player, eddie has overdubbed quite a few bass parts since then, but my biggest complaint is the drop off of the bass on so this is love. I blame ted for that.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:46 am
Look, Mike’s gotta be one of the nicest, most down to earth guys on the planet. Whatever happened, he deserved to be treated better, and he deserved an honest answer from Ed when Ed was asked why Mike wasn’t invited to do the tour. Mike took the high road, showing how cool he was, by wishing Wolfie the best and asking fans to go easy on him. Mike is a big part of VH history, the band’s sound, the band’s vibe, and the band’s image. He shouldn’t have been treated the way he was. I’m probably among a small group of folks who didn’t see a show on the tour because of what they did with Mike, but I stand by that decision. Mike, dude, sorry things worked out the way they did–I think you’re pretty cool and you deserved better. Good luck with everything amigo.
August 16th, 2008 at 9:27 am
first off I think if sammy is so concerned about VH moving on without MA then why dont he get rid of Mona and make Mike a Waborita? I mean if Mike signed is future VH rights away for Sam then I guess Sam owes mike something. other than that I had the same feeling when Al and ED retire the band VH will live with Wolf at the helm, but first he needs to read his moms one pound at a time book……
August 16th, 2008 at 9:36 am
Sam has said that all along. He knows that’s what the fans wanted. He just hoped they would ALL get together in the future and do a huge tour. 25 years is a long time. It will never be the same as the early 80’s. I just hope some new music comes out of this!
August 16th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Ok , here goes…Eddie wants his son to make some money and music(and if it includes letting go of mike in the process-two birds with one stone!) Sammy is a self-centered self-promoting Van Halen hater with one true agenda-making more money wit his tequila…and Micheal? he said himself he hates roth and that eddie has a huge ego,so why be in a band with those two for so long…he’s a mercenary(in it for the cash) Now he’s talking shit about the tour , blah blahblah..It’s pretty obvious…Way to go Van Halen,Best tour ever,Sammy’s a cover band now and needs to shut up and Mikey should lay low because you never know, they may ask him to tour again but i think he wont because he hates roth remember?> I will see van halen again if they tour with roth but i think they should get the bass player from spinal tap…and turn it up to 11!!
August 16th, 2008 at 10:17 am
Oh yeah…what sammy said is true in his last clip ( but it still sounds like a bitter ex girlfriend comment ) We may never know the answer but Sammy and Mikey need to stop sounding like pissed off ex-girlfriends…who knows? Maybe sammy will come out with Cabo-Douche and Mikey will make Jack Daniels Tampons????
August 16th, 2008 at 10:18 am
Or better yet…Maybe all of them should start playing rock and roll and writing new music….but that would be too much like making sense…..’This is spinal Tap’,,,,,Hmmmmm….
August 16th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
yeah it was outta sight, especially at the beginning. but i sure noticed it didn’t maintain much buzz. why is that? is it because in ‘idea’ it was great, but in execution it was kinda flat? sort of a ‘nothing new to report’ kinda thing. i missed the ‘did you hear what ed played last night?!!’ kind of energy. yes, i’m thankful for what we got. but remember the extended jams? the weird covers? ed and al looking at each other playing around with ‘girl gone bad’ pre-1984 on the diver down tour? remember the melodic breakdown to 5150 in ‘86? i miss those lightning bolts. maybe they were there. I only know these moments from bootlegs. I didn’t see ‘em live til 88. Can anyone who saw them thru out their career comment- did these guys show more spontaneity in the older days? -thanks
August 16th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
***Maybe all of them should start playing rock and roll and writing new music***
Sam’s done that. “Open” is a pretty good song.
You can catch Ed’s new music at a soft-core soundtrack near you. (how sad)
August 16th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
All of you who are ragging on Michael Anthony’s basslines in Van Halen are missing one crucial point.
We all know that EVH is an incredible guitarist. He’ll go down in history as one of the greatest rock musicians of this or any era. With a guitarist such as Eddie, there is simply NO ROOM FOR FLASHY BASSLINES. Michael plays exactly what is appropriate within the songs. Yes, they’re easy to pick up - for an experienced session bassist like myself, it takes around 5 minutes because he’s not doing anything that’s either harmonically or rhythmically challenging. He’s simply filling out the bottom end and providing solid backup vocals.
Can you imagine what a MESS it would be if VH were to have a bassist like, say, Les Claypool? It’d be a trainwreck.
One thing I *will* agree with, however. The bass solo that Michael was doing with VH was ridiculous. He actually plays a bit at first, but it quickly devolves into big, loud low notes without much technique, on a bass that looks like a Jack Daniel’s bottle. Big f’n deal. (Gene Simmons does much the same thing with KISS when he takes his “bass solo” - he doesn’t play much of substance, choosing rather to spit fake stage blood out of his mouth and be lifted high above the audience. But at the end of the day, Gene is a solid player, who plays the appropriate notes at the appropriate time for the style of music.)
August 16th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Easy Robby….Sammy is just answering someone’s questions. What do you expect him to say? He isn’t going out of his way to comment what he thinks. He gets asked a question and fucked if he’s not going to answer it. Why the Hell do you people have such a problem with somebody being friends?!?! What do you want him to say…seriously…should he just say, “I’m sorry, I won’t answer any questions about anything VH related, the members, my past with the band. Nothing.” Come on!!!! You same mutants would then rip him that he has no respect for what made him a household name…RW..”Open” isn’t bad. His newest one though is a shameless plug for NASCAR. It’s really a bad song!! This comes from the guy who will always say Van Hagar for Life!
August 16th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
I wonder if Dave will ever sing some of those great Van Halen song that the band, well maybe the songs that Sammy Hagar wrote.
August 16th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
QUOTE: “I wonder if Dave will ever sing some of those great Van Halen song that the band, well maybe the songs that Sammy Hagar wrote.”
not Dave’s style or range…Sammy sings a lot higher key than Dave…wouldn’t sound right.
That’s not saying anything bad about Dave…just Sammy sings higher key.
August 16th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
It would be funny to Van Halen, Sammy Hagar and extreme on the same bill… then we could get VH versions 1,2 and 3 all in one night. I will say, that first single off of VH3 sounded like it was written for Sammy.
August 16th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
I think Van Halen and all who are involved like to use controversy to their advantage. It keeps up interest in the media. I think Ed wanted to give his very talented son a lesson in what he can expect if he ever wanted to start his own band. Ed and Alex’s father Jan handed his experience to them. Ed followed suit with Wolfgang. I think we will see Mad Anthony in a reunion with Ed, Alex and DLR down the road. I really don’t think they are that bitter with him. Hell, they will even make an album with him. Wolf is going to do his own thing. That’s what I can’t wait to hear. Wolf’s take on music. That’s going to be AWESOME!
August 16th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
Mike left, he wasn’t kicked out.
Alex Van Halen has said, in a well documented audio interview, “Mike stopped turning up, Wolfgang turned up…boom, he’s in the band!”
AVH has also stated, in interviews, that they all (Mike and the VHbros) rehearsed/jammed everyday at 5150, it being their only daily routine.
Mike stopped turning up so he could play with Sammy…..its so simple ppl, plz get over your Ed hate.
The VH Bros have an open door policy at 5150 studios…everyone in the rock/pop world goes up there to play.
Mike should just swallow his hot sauce and go up there, put water (not tequila) under the bridge and mend some fences.
August 16th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
To ‘RW’….dont get your panties in a bunch..I meant van halen and sammy and mikey and the whole lot of em’…too much of this paris hilton scandal bullshit..” eddie said this and sammy said that ” …ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!! Hence the ’spinal tap’ reference …For the record..I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED HAGARS MUSIC AND VAN HALENS MUSIC BOTH WITH ROTH , HAGAR AND EVEN A COUPLE WITH CHERONE…hey chris, you are right…But i did say Sammy’s got a valid point,what i dont understand is that they all have made money ( alot of money ) doing what most of us dream of doing and here they are acting like a bunch of competing garage bands playing talent night…Get over it guys…Van Halen toured with roth and wolfgang , Sammy’s touring with the wabo’s, Mikey’s got something in the works and thats that…about my Ex girlfriend comment? If asked about your old ‘friends’ you say something negative you sound like an ex girlfriend, or ‘high school’….take your pic…(I was reffering to Samm’s quip about roth) I hope they all do well and realize how lucky they are….and again…they should all shut up play rock and roll and write music…because thats what got them this far…
August 16th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Who has ever liked vanhalen for the bass player
August 16th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
Pathos–I would like to hear that interview…I’ve read what Mike has said about it, and that’s about it. I tried reading Eddie’s side, but when the Deed was done, Eddie was still swimming in bottles, so he doesn’t really make a lot of sense.
August 16th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
I saw the show in Glendale AZ, Wolf Gang did great and all the songs were great, I was also at the 2004 tour in Phoenix and the song selection was just as good if not better and their was just as many people at the show to see Sammy and Mike as there were to see Eddie and Dave.
August 16th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Well I’m only 13 so…….I think it was good eddie wanted his son to join the band. I like wolfgang on bass and background vocal and all this Mike A talk just DROP IT!!!!
August 16th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
eddie said it himself, wolfgang was the whole reason the tour happened, he brought a new energy to the band.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
It’s their band they can do what they want… Kudos to Wolf for filling big shoe’s, I am a fan and I respect what they do. I prefer Dave era over sam era,didn,t really care for cherone, I was disapointed that Mike Anthony wasn,t there but can accept Wolf even though I make cracks about him being heavy set, It does look though he out weigh’s his dad by 75 lbs or so… I think it is funny.. he the biggest Van Halen.
August 16th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
That IS funny…He’s ‘PaPa’ Van Halen….It almost seemed like Dave kept his distance during the show from Wolfie…Its a different time now…our kids get better nourishment ( and less cocaine ) Than in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s for that matter…Nothing would make me happier than if Sammy had a new great rock song,Van Halen had a new great rock song and Mikey with or without VH had a new great rock song….I’m putting this one to bed.
August 17th, 2008 at 3:53 am
Whoever the bass player will currently be(whether it be Wolfie Van Halen or anyone else),I’m just hoping that Van Halen(Version 1.2[now that Dave is back,and Wolfie is in the band])gets around to making that longly awaited album with Dave before it becomes too late.
BTW:major props to Michael Anthony.
August 17th, 2008 at 7:33 am
It’s all good as long as they are playing music. It could only get better if they started MAKING music. Hopefully a sober Ed will be less of a miserable, vindictive freak and just make F’n music. That is all he is good at. The rest of whoever are in the band are just props.
Eddie is the genius! (which of course is a fine line from insanity)
August 17th, 2008 at 9:15 am
After seeing the Other Half I understand why Sammy has to resort to take cheap shots at VAN HALEN, his concert sucked. The VAN HALEN tickets cost more money, but I thought it was worth it to see them 3 times. I didn’t hear Dave take cheap shots at Sammy. VAN HALEN kicked ass.
August 17th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Look after 04 tour, Sammy and Mike did the OTHER 1/2 OF VAN HALEN TOUR…Eddie and Alex were pissed, they didn’t care if they toured or jammed. They were pissed that they toured and advertised as the OTHER 1/2 OF VAN HALEN and were playing cruise ships and shit…This is why the exit of Michael Anthony. Michael Anthony is a great pocket bass player, he doesn’t suck by no means. I just dont think that Sammy and Mike thought these guys were going to hit the road again. Maybe after dealing with Ed on 04 tour, who knows…I’m thankful for the recent reunion and I hope for more, but I dont expect it…
August 17th, 2008 at 11:58 am
The hall of fame thing was bull sh!t. it was to bad that ed,al and dave wasn,t present however it wasn,t their absence that was the big dissapointment it was that sorry ass performance from Velvet Revolver that ruined it for me. thank god atleast they had Mike and Sam play with the love boat version of why can this be love… (note for Lenny Kaye) stick to patty smith music trying to copy EVH’s licks only show how much you suck…..
August 17th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
I agree with you Gary, the Wolfster is very talented, I may poke jokes at him being a big boy but I was a fat kid too at one point in my life. Keep kickin ass Wolfie…… you have a job that many Bass player wish they had and you,me and a million other guitar players have one thing in common and that is we admire you dad and appreciate what he has pioneered for lead guitar. And finally what everyone who has posted something on this board, what we all have in common is that we love VH. LONG LIVE VAN HALEN……
August 17th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
It simple….Wolfie’s pay is Eddie’s pay…They practicew when they feel like it…Mike”Lumpy”Anthony would have cost more money to keep.
Make no mistake…it’s the money…look at all the EVH merch in the last 10 years.
BTW…Billy Sheehan said in an email..He would loved to be the VH bass player…oh well…wouldn’t we all:-)
August 17th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
They should have used Michael. Period. But, frankly, as much as I love EVH, I wouldn’t want to be around him either.
August 17th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Did someone really say Wolfie’s vocals were so good people thought it was pre-recorded?? Knock-Knock… it was! If you couldn’t tell at the show, you must be deaf.
August 17th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
I went to see the last show of the tour in Grand Rapids… not sure why I did. They were so much better with Sammy than Dave… Dave can’t sing anymore! They just drowned him out with the music… quite a few times, they would start playing a song and I would be loving it and then Dave would start in and ruin it.
August 18th, 2008 at 12:39 am
Yeah, i think wolfgang was VERY good. he just was DIFFERENT than Mike. the vocals and bass were GREAT, just DIFFERENT
August 18th, 2008 at 1:37 am
First off, I like all the incarnations of the band - even Gary. But the whole thing with MA is typical of the kind of soap opera BS that goes on between the VH brothers (or maybe it’s just Ed) and anyone who is on the outs with them.
Without the internet to spread it all over the place, I don’t remember the same kind of back and forth “he said/he said” stuff with Dave back in the 80’s, but when Sammy left the first time and was replaced with Gary there was no end of back and forth blaming & name calling between him & Ed.
Now it’s Mike’s turn, and it’s the same crap. I wish he had played with them on this tour, even if he’s not a spectacular bass player. He’s just part of the band I know. Wolfgang did a good job, but watching him on stage just took me out of the show enough to make it seem like it wasn’t quite perfect.
I suspect 10, 15 years down the road, assuming everyone in the band is still around and playing, we’ll see some kind of reunion tour with MA, Sammy AND Dave. They just need some time to get over their bitterness, just like has happened with both Sammy and Dave now.
I’m not expecting to see Gary up there however
August 18th, 2008 at 7:35 am
You will never see a show with Dave and Sam together! (with Ed, Al, and Mike) And I can remeber interviews with Ed as far back as 1980 stating that Mike brought nothing creative to the band when it came recording time, so bringing Wolf into the band makes perfect sense. I like Mike! He might not be the greatest bass player but his background vocals brought out that classic VH sound. For Dave doing VH material in the Hagar era of the band is beneath him. Dave will never sing a Hagar song, yes he doesn’t have the range but more importantly to him that type of music just represented a different version of the band that he didn’t subscrible to. So whether you like the band with Dave, Sammy and yes even Gary, just enjoy the music.
August 18th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Don’t you really think that Dave should suck it up and go along with 1-2 Sammy tunes during a show? All the Pro Daves out there have to like at least that many from Sammy. It wouldn’t have to be perfect, let the crowd sing…anything. It’s still Van Halen. Kick it Old School like Zep used to and whip out like a 10 minute (Zep’s were longer of course) medley of a few tunes. At least acknowledge it for the fans. I really think that could work. Better yet, have it be a chance for Dave to sit down and catch his breath. Just let the Band jam a few recognizable bars from a few different Sam songs.
August 18th, 2008 at 11:26 am
I see where you are coming from Realchris but it will never happen. As it stands right now you get the best of both worlds. (no pun intended)If you want old school VH go check out the current line up of the band. If you like the Van Hagar version check out him with Mike. I am definitely pro Dave but I really don’t care to see him sing Love Walks In or Run Around. They just don’t fit him or that version of the band.
August 18th, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Edward and Diamond Dave reunited on stage. End of story.
August 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Sammy’s opinion doesn’t really matter at all. What matters now is what is VH going to do now? Will they try to sway MA back into the band? Will they go into the studio with the current lineup? Tour again? These are questions that VH fans want answers to now!
August 18th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
I hear ya Kyle. But then you gotta ask yourself…Am I going to see Van Halen, or am I going to see David Lee Roth sing his old songs with his old band. I know, I’m splitting hairs here, but I just love the music!! I’ll put a wishlist out…(these should jive with Dave’s “attitude”) Summer Nights, Amsterdam, Sucker in a 3 Piece, Finish What Ya Started. Sucker is one of my faves, and Dave can bust out his accoustic for Finish. But I totally see how the Sammy singles are different. I wouldn’t be a VH fan if I didn’t!
August 18th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Well REALchris Van Halen is only Van Halen with David Lee Roth!! haha. I think John brings up good points. Will there be new music with Dave? A new tour? I think they have to do so in order fot this not to be a one and done so to speak. One thing for sure (as evidence by this last tour) the public still wants to see them and like I said hopefully that means new music down the line. According to Dave (and that depends if you believe him or not) he helped write parts of 5150. I could definitely see him doing Summer Nights or Good Enough. But again that is just fantasy land.
August 18th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
I set myself up for that one Kyle! Ha! I highly doubt Dave wrote anything from 5150. Maybe though. I guess he could have had some lyrics kicking around that Eddie gave to Sammy. One more Sam song push and then I’ll let it die….the intro to Top of the World is just the outro to Jump. Let them flow. Dave is now the one sitting on top now, right?
August 18th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Hey I am not a Sammy hater. The guy does have an incredible voice. Van Halen was smart, they went after a guy who had a name, a good voice, and somone who would go along with Eddie and HIS VISION of the band and what it should be at the time. One Way to Rock, Heavy Metal, Swept Away, all good stuff; I just didn’t like the style of music (overall) he delivered with Van Halen. I mean can you really imagine I am the One or On Fire followed up with Feels so Good or Mine all Mine? YUCK!
August 18th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
all you hagar fans need to accept the fact that he is gone ,and never coming back.roth and halen started this band,and they will finish it.roth will be touring with the halens next summer while sam is cleaning toilets at the cabo wabo cantina.roth brings out the best in ed. face it,me wise magic was their best effort in the last 20 years.i wish they would have played it live. I BELIEVE THEY WILL TAKE SOME TIME TO MAKE A NEW CD,BUT IT WILL ROCK LIKE NOTHING THEY HAVE EVER DONE.ROTH WILL MAKE SURE OF THAT.ANYONE AGREE?
August 18th, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I know you’re not a hater. I’m not a Dave hater either. In fact, you said it Best when you say it’s Ed’s Vision. Every band has some tunes though that would not follow others in a set list. Feels So Good is an awesome song with a great Eddie solo, but I don’t see it following anything other than Source of Infection like it does on the record. It’s funny picking stuff from OU812…wasn’t that named that way to poke fun at Dave?
August 18th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I wasn’t talking so much about a setlist as in contrasting the different styles of the band. Van Halen named the album OU812 in response to Dave’s first solo album Eat’Em and Smile.
August 18th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
Right, right. The only way to overcome a want for the old, is to give us a want for the new!!! New Record soon please! Then tour and play it!
August 18th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
AMEN brother!
August 18th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
Eddie is the greatest musician of all time. I am one of the biggest VH fans of all time. Ever since i was ten years old and heard and the cradle will rock. It is ashame however, that he has lost his damn mind for the last 12 years. He had the most perfect band. Drama like a woman. I thought he wanted to make music for the rest of his life even if he had to sit on a stool. It is literaly heartbreaking. I still love you Eddie but good God what you have put your fans through.
August 18th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
Therealchris,
I’m ready for my virtual punch! Mike did do it to himself. He tried to be like Sam and sell Hot Sauce on the music Ed created. ED had cancer, hip replacement and marital problems going on and all Mike cared about was selling Hot Sauce. He helped start a band called Planet Us with Sam and two members of Journey. Neil and Dean didn’t want to be a Van Halen cover band, they wanted to create music.
All Mike had to do was show up,play music that was already written for him, sing high harmonies on lyrics that were already written for him, collect 1/4 royalties and touring and T-shirt sales. He OWES all his fame and fortune to EDDIE and how does he repay ED ( remember Ed had caner, hip replacement and marital problems) by trying to make more money on Ed’s hard work and CREATIVITY.
Mike and Sam never thought they’d see the day VH would reunite with Dave. He gambled and was WRONG!!! That’s why he looks the way he does in the pictures. He know’s “HE’S THE DUMBEST MAN IN ROCK HISTORY!!!!”
August 18th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
big all is right..he said it perfect!
August 18th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
Since Van Halen have been known for doing a few covers in the past. If recording is in their future, they could re-do
poundcake,summer nights, etc. They could call the cd RE-WRITING a WRONG.
August 18th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Mike does not owe a Ed a thing, they all were in this together. Dave left the band to try and make a movie, Sammy came along and kept the band going good for ten years. Maybe Ed and Alex should break out some of the old video tapes and give us all some great stuff from both bands for Christmas
August 19th, 2008 at 5:24 am
I have been a Van Halen since I heard them on the radio at the end of 1977 with You Really Got Me. Van Halen brought me and my wife together in 1985 because of there music.
Van Halen has gone through many changes. From VH to 1984 (1977-1984 David Lee Roth Era) the music reflected
a big party atmosphere. From 5150 to Balance (1986-1995 Sammy Hagar Era) the music was about falling in love. There are differences between the two but the main thing that was the same was the core or the group Eddie, Alex and Michael. I am not going to talk about 1996-1999 (the Gary Cherone Era) it was a dark time. VIII was a mess, there were maybe 2 to 3 good tunes it sold worse then Diver Down and half that album was cover songs. I have seen Van Halen in concert 12 times. The first time was in 1980 then from 1984 on I have not missed a tour. I enjoyed the tour when I saw then in San Diego in November 2007 it was a great blast from the past
I just wish Micheal was part of it. I do think if they are going to continue Dave would have to swallow his pride a sing a Sammy song or two. I have an interview where Eddie stated after the 84 tour he was writing songs and kept waiting for Dave to show up and we all know what happened. When he said that I could see Dave singing why can’t this be love, if you listen to the lyrics they sound like Dave’s. I could see him dong that tune in concert and also Black and Blue (that is a Dave tune for sure), Top of the World and maybe Poundcake. I do hope they do a new album and tour I would like to see. Here are a few questions for us to ponder. Will they record a new album, will they tour, will Dave leave again, will Wolfgang quit, will Michael be asked back, will Alex and Eddie just call it a day and put Van Halen to rest what will be the next chapter in As Van Halen Turns.
August 19th, 2008 at 10:16 am
Right on Joe. Couldn’t agree more.
August 19th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
Big Al—-*SWING* Damnit…I missed!! I know what you mean, and even the original post that said he did it to himself isn’t entirely wrong. Mikey should have know that Eddie’s the boss, and don’t piss off the Boss. All I really meant is that he didn’t say to himself, “I’m going to piss off Eddie, work with Sammy and get kicked out of VH.” There’s no way he thought that. Why would he? If he wanted to quit, he would have.
August 19th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Oh and the sauce….that has nothing to do with VH (I don’t think) in any way. It’s not his fault that when VH gets played on the radio that every mindless DJ has to quip about it. Really, the only one really towing that VH line for all it’s worth is Sammy. Cabo Wabo is a VH song. I totally get Eddie not liking that. There’s obviously paperwork that makes it all legal and shit, but Eddie doesn’t have to like it. Next week on “As the Van Halen Turns,” Dave decides to open a successful dog park venture…”Unchained.” (Wow, that was awful!
)
August 20th, 2008 at 11:43 am
“Next week on “As the Van Halen Turns,” Dave decides to open a successful dog park venture…”Unchained.” (Wow, that was awful!
)”
It would be Next week on As Van Halen Turns (-the)
August 20th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
That’s true…Personally, (if it’s funny at all) I think it’s funnier with “the” thrown in there. You know, “As The World Turns.” Just my dumb sense of humor I guess…
August 21st, 2008 at 5:01 pm
The Van Halen life show…..or…..Van Halen Factor’…..Next weeks episode: Make it through seven citys with Dave doing Karate kicks while missing all the high notes…Then , Tour with Sammy while he’s having wine tasting backstage with Emeril, Toby Keith and Mike Anthony selling Hot Sauce in Jack Daniels Bottles…I would rather eat worms and Bull’s nuts
August 21st, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Joe,
You’re spot on. But…..I honestly don’t think that Dave can sing “Black and Blue”. Not a knock on DLR (love the music, don’t care for the flake) just reiterating the fact that he sings a different style & a lot lower than Sammy. Maybe if they dropped the key, yeah.
For everyone wishing for the band to do something that would bring together the different eras (hey, maybe yet ANOTHER greatest hits CD? Who doesn’t need 6 copies of “Jump”?), I recall that, as the story goes, Sammy was backstage with Kid Rock & Ted Nugent and they were begging them to go out together and do some VH classics at the same time. Sammy was all in. Dave wanted nothing to do with it. Dunno why, but…..man, if that doesn’t sum up the VH attitude towards the fans (Sammy & Mike giving them what they want, Dave & the brothers being the ones the older fans want, but screwing them at every possible opportunity) nothing does.
I listened to VH CDs almost nonstop during the late 90s. Owned cassettes and then bought CDs. The CDs got destroyed and I picked up more…that’s how much I listened. Now? The band is pretty much dead to me. I can listen to 1984 in my car, don’t need to shell out 4 figures to see them perform it.
I hated typing those words, but it’s true. And I reiterate; one of my favorite all-time collection of artists are now little more than a nostalgia band.
August 21st, 2008 at 10:09 pm
they sure coudnt tour again unless they release new CD…..I think we need new rockstars ..
August 22nd, 2008 at 1:11 am
RW,
I like what you said. I stated I had seen Van Halen 12 times the first time being in 1980, the tickets were $12.50ea. When I saw them in 1984 the tickets were $18.50. From 1986-91 they averaged $25.00 to $45.00.
I think you get where I am going with this. When the tickets went on sale for the 2007 Tour they were $150.00ea. If you remember I also stated I met my wife because of Van Halen, well we just got married back on October 10 (yes David Lee Roth Birthday) and because we were planning our wedding I passed on buying the tickets because after the tickets there is dinner, drinks and gas to get to the show so it would of cost us a minimum of $500.00 just for the show. The why I got my tickets is I won them fro 101.5 KGB in San Diego, if not for that we would of missed our first show in over 20 years.
I do remember when they did the 2004 Tour with Sammy tickets were $75.00, wow the tickets went up 100% in 3 years. I do hope if they do come around again the tickets will be more reasonable, I would be able to handle $75.00 to maybe $100.00 a ticket other than that I won’t go. I saw Sammy and Michael in 2006 and the price was right $65.00 a ticket, it show you who is for the fans and who just wants to fill there pockets. I don’t know what will happen next in the next chapter of As Van Halen Turns. I guess we will all just have to stay tuned and see.
August 22nd, 2008 at 6:11 am
I saw this tour 3 times it was great 26 classic tunes one right after another. I do hope they come out with new music but if not, so be it I saw the greatest guitar player and frontman that took 23 years to get it togather. As Dave always said it was the tunes that matter. again 26 classic tunes no boring 15 minute bass solo. well worth the $$$$$$$
August 22nd, 2008 at 9:38 am
Amen Ray!! The classic VH has stood the test of time!
August 22nd, 2008 at 10:37 am
I think the next tour should be “a three-hour tour,” honoring the whole legacy. Note to Ed: Do a set with Sammy, do a set with Dave. Take a 20-break in-between sets, then do an encore with *everyone* on stage. Let Mike and Wolf alternate on bass and back both sets… or, heck, do the Ned’s Atomic Dustbin thing and have two bass players for part of the time. Have Dave sing back-ups on a Sammy tune and Sammy back up a Dave tune. But in the middle of it all, you make sure you have the Original Van Halen and the 5150 Van Halen operate in their original format for a little while. It could be one kick-ass party, where everyone gets what they want… and my bet is that it would outgross the last tour. Let bygones be bygones, Ed. Life’s too friggin’ short… and have Gary Cherone and the reformed Extreme open the show… have *him* do a song with you, too. It would be a total blast.
August 22nd, 2008 at 12:08 pm
In a Perfect World, peetah, in a Perfect World!
August 22nd, 2008 at 12:19 pm
More like fantasy land:)
August 22nd, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Thats why when you see these old rock stars getting together and having an all star jam it only happens one time and usually it is for some charity and the only reason they do it in the first place is to make themselves feel good about being ego-centric power trippers…all i know is I am going to work on monday and If i could make the kind of money these pansies make doing re-union tours i would pull my head out of my ass swallow my pride and make the fans happy…and if you think it isnt about the fans then i say you should play for free no matter how famous you are
August 24th, 2008 at 9:22 am
I have been a faithful fan of VH since 1983. I have seen many shows. Sammy’s shows are always a blast and you leave feeling you got what you came for. Dave’s solo shows for the last few years have been full of fan interaction and fun. This last VH show was solid but had no heart. Dave had scripted lines and nothing else. I went with friends who were Dave fans to the core and they left the show saying, “It was good to see Dave but it wasn’t as good as the anticipation”. They played the tunes but the performance was flat. Mike brought energy to the show that you can’t measure. Dave was under a gag order. It obviously isn’t about the fanss with the brothers. I am not sure it ever has been about the fans with Eddie.
August 24th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
Shawn you must of saw a different show than I did. The band sold out across the country and did multiple shows in New York and LA. I miss Mike being in the line up but Wolf did a great job. As for Hagar, if you call sitting on your ass for half the show signing anything that gets thrown your way entertaining than so be it. Dave was great, as well as Eddie, Alex, and YES Wolf. If you are going to compare ANYONE in thier 20 ies and the 50ies it will not be what it was, but it was pretty damn close.
August 24th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Bring both back if you want the best of Van Halen. The 2004 tour was sold out every nigh too.
August 24th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
We saw the same show. I see it over and over on You Tube and still feel the same. Entertaining yes but Van Halen kick you in the face and steal your girlfriend? Van Halen will always stand up over most bands. I had a good time as well but,Dave barely spoke,not the Dave I know. Eddie stood in one spot most of the show,not the Eddie I remember. Wolfgang had zero stage presence.certainly not Mike! The only one who played with heart was Alex. Of course it sold out all over. We have been waiting for this since 1985. Yes Sammy spends a lot of time signing, but he understands that his fans keep him doing what he loves. I agree he should focus on quality music as well but I have never felt disappointed after Sammy’s show. I can even accept Wolfgang. If I was Eddie I would want to play with my son. I just don’t want contrived and controlled. Is that really Van Halen? Especially the Van Halen David Lee Roth line up? I think not!!! Use the same sober judgement of Van Halen as you do with Sam an ask yourself again. Is this the Van Halen your remember or cooperate Van Halen? I can live with cooperate Van Halen cause it beats no Van Halen.
August 24th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
Again, we just saw a different show.. Eddie was jumping around constantly, Dave was entertaining/talking/and sounded great;and Alex was fantastic as usual. I do agree with your view of Wolf but give the guy a break he was only 17 years old!! For me corporate Van Halen started at 5150 when Ed wanted to take the band in a more commercial/pop direction and he found the guy who would go along with him. Again, it just all depends on which version of the band you like.
August 28th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
****For me corporate Van Halen started at 5150 when Ed wanted to take the band in a more commercial/pop direction and he found the guy who would go along with him. Again, it just all depends on which version of the band you like.****
First off, I like and respect your writing & opinion.
That said, the quoted comment is just something I don’t “get”. I have all the VH CDs and I can swear that the remake of the Vandellas is on a Dave CD. “I’ll wait til your love comes down”? Dave. And, let’s face it, other than the guitar solo, is there a bigger pop song in the band’s history than “Jump”? How about “Dance the night away”? (seen any bikers singing “dance….dance….dance, the night away” at the pool parlor, lately?) “You’re no good”? “Pretty woman”?
Now, before you unload: I love all those songs (except Jump….never liked it). My point is that all the diehard Dave fans seem to only remember the unbelievable classics like “Mean street”, “Eruption”, “RWTD” and the many, many others, while seeing only “Love walks in” or “Can’t stop loving you” from the Sammy era. Well, I beg to differ. I can plug in F.U.C.K. and hear some of the best rock of the 90s. “In n’ Out”, “Poundcake”, “Judgment Day” and “Man on a mission” are harder than the classics of the 80s, IMO. (not saying ‘better’, but ‘harder’) To me, and since Eddie wrote most of the music it stands to reason, they had just as many hard rock songs, they just went with more love related songs w/Sammy instead of the campy/schmaltzy stuff they did with Dave (I love “Ice cream man” and “Where have all the good times gone” just like everyone else, but they also sound a lot like something a lounge singer does).
You’re quite right, it all depends on which version you like….well, I like ‘em both, I just don’t see how “Push comes to shove” is from the ‘kickass’ era and “Finish what ya started” is part of the era when VH ’sold out’.
Don’t get it. Never have. They’ve always rocked.
August 28th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
RW,
I agree wit what you said about Van Halen at one point I got so sick of jump I would change the station when it came on because it was so damn poppy. It took me till about five years ago to where I could listen to it again with out cringing or changing the station.
I also do agree that the F.U.C.K. album is one of the hardest rockin’ albums they had released since Van Halen one, in my opinion they went back to their roots and I loved it, now that is what made Van Halen.
For me I have the albums in the order of hardest albums to worst albums, my top three Van Halen albums are Van Halen, F.U.C.K. and Fair Warning in that order. For that matter, all the Van Halen albums are good with some exceptions here are some examples, Van Halen III, there might be two good songs on it, and of course Diver Down, this was there worst selling album till Van Halen III came out, those are the worst albums they had released. As for VIII and DD, I do have them but I don’t enjoy as much as I did the others.
Here are some questions, will they record a new album, will it be with Dave or will there be a new singer, will they ever tour again as Van Hale. Tune in next time for As Van Halen Turns
September 3rd, 2008 at 10:00 pm
The sound is better with Dave for whole bunch of reasons. The sound is a function of the era..analog vs. digital…Dave’s more unique, more soulful voice (vs. Sammy’s me-too hair-band falsetto squeal); Dave’s far more colorful, off-beat, interesting and poetic lyrics, storylines, subject matter. As well as Eddie’s de-evolution in his sound - going from the innovative yet simple, rich and elegant brown sound (with a pop hook or two) to nine different guitar solos mixed over the top of one another. All that means is that even a cover of Pretty Women with Dave sounds better than love walks in not just because of the words but because of the voice and the sound.
September 7th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
Let’s be honest, Ed was a wreck on the 04 tour. Mike and Sam handled themselves so well under the circumstances. It was nuts. Ed got mad that Sam and Mike were unhappy because of his condition, and it caused a lot of problems. I’m glad Ed’s straight now, but he’s already done the damage.
If you read all the books by every one, Ed was looking for a new bass player years ago. The reason? Power- Mike got a 1/4 vote in everything VH and now Wolfie will just go along with whatever Dad says. I am most disappointed in Al, he lets Ed do whatever he wants and never stands up to him. It breaks my, and a lot of others people’s hearts to see our hero’s turn petty and vicious. Try working my job for a day Ed, maybe the reality kick would make you try to get along with people who helped make you rich.
Wolf needs to leave VH and start his own thing. He has a valid resume now, but it is unrealistic to think he can take over the Van Halen name someday and keep VH going like Menudo with a new member every few years. Bring back Mike, do a tour with Dave and Sammy and make things the way they should be. Hagar, to his credit, has been calling for this for years. It seems he and Mike have the fans needs placed about thier own.
September 7th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Mad Mike,
I could not agree with you more. Sammy and Michael have always been the ones that are doing things to meet the fans. They make it easy to buy there tickets and always seem to make themselves available for the fans. I never really hear of anything where Edward or Alex are meeting fans unless its at NAMM other than that you just see them on tour or in the media.
When it comes to media and when you hear about Ed it will be a rollercoaster ride, from cancer to divorce, from new singer/tour to rehab. You hardly ever hear any good news about what Ed is doing and as for Al he is a ghost, you mainly here from him around a tour. With Sammy and Michael you here good things, the only bad thing you heard about them is being fired/leaving Van Halen.
In the next 3 to 6 months, we will see what happens in As
Van Halen Turns fasten your seatbelts it will be a hell of a ride.
September 12th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Hey “Dan Halen” “Me Wise Magic”?, best effort in 20 years? As the comedian he is DLR would love to spend time with you! Then EVH would have one more person to control and be pissed at. It all comes down to Ed’s issues. Hopefully for Wolf, EVH will someday find and maintain balance in his life so his family and fans can enjoy his talents and company like they should.
September 12th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
Rich
I could not have said it better myself. Eddie has got to find his serenity, to accept the things he can not change, find the courage to change the things he can and the wisdom to know the difference.
There is an old saying, keep coming back it works if you work it. If he dose that things will calm down and he will do better and just maybe we will get something new.
September 13th, 2008 at 8:45 am
Problem is and probably always will be Ed’s and Alex’s ego and that was pretty evident with the McCain campaign’s playing ‘Right Here, Right Now’, with VH’s lawyers burning up the phone lines demanding they cease and desist playing the tune while the song has been available commercially for years and years, and if I was in charge of the campaign I would have told their lawyers to shove it, nothing they can say or do will prevent me the freedom to play the song where ever I can or please.
While the tour was a success, ticket prices bothered a lot of fans I know, and some had a huge problem ponying up the $75 for decent seats and Michael Anthony would probably have made a difference in ticket prices especially in the southeast and especially here in Jacksonville, FL, and it took awhile for the tickets to sell, but this is Lynnyrd Skynnyrd land and .38 Special land and that’s to be expected.
Also wonder if and when VH will release a new album, there was huge buzz that they’d spent a lot of time in the recording studio with Wolfie but nothing yet. Might wonder if the Brothers VH are just trying to live in the past with the tour.
September 13th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
At this rate Axl will release Chinese Democracy before Eddie gets off his ass
September 19th, 2008 at 12:46 am
The next all new Van Halen album (no greatest hits package with a new song or two) will be release when hell freezes over or when Eddie and Alex are Bankrupt which ever comes first.
The reason I say this is because they just did a tour where they charged enormous prices for tickets that were half the price four years earlier, they should be set for life.
October 21st, 2008 at 5:33 pm
I am amazed that none of you get it. Not one comment about it! one word>……..
M O N E Y!!!!
My thinking is, everyone wanted dave back, ok , they held off, did some records without him.. many records, , then finally brought him back and did a world Tour that sold out like nuts! BUT,.. they left michael anthony out.,,.,?????
some fans were all pissy and bummed out. Granted, the wolf is a Van Halen, but he is not Michael Anthony, nor can he sing bkg vox like Michael, nor will he ever be able to, because he has his own tone and style. I respect that and applaud his musiciansship.
M O N E Y!!!!!!
After Wolf gets really established with the band, he will probably ditch VH and go do his own thing and make his own music, THEN guess who will be invited back into the band. YOU GUESSED IT, THE REUNION TOUR WILL HAVE ALL OF THE ORGINAL MEMBERS..
M O N E Y!!!! boys.. M O N E Y!!! keeps all of the fans guessing, but the truth is, you all scratch your heads and wonder why, but it all quite calculated. They know, when they do the Reunion tour, they will make another fortune. If anyone here, thinks, that money is not the motivation, then your lost!
MONEY!!!! MONEY BOYS… Its all about MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMOOOOOOONNNEY!
J
October 23rd, 2008 at 10:47 pm
Jay
You’re absolutely right. Van Halen will make a lot more $$$$$MONEY$$$$$ when they have a reunion with the four original members of the band.
At that point they will charge upwards of $250+ mark my works after the last tour I can see it being that way.