Michael Anthony said he’s sad about not getting the chance to reconnect with Eddie Van Halen before his passing.
In an appearance on Talkin’ Rock with Meltdown, Anthony reflected on Eddie’s passing and the Van Halen reunion that almost happened saying, “We actually hadn’t spoken [for the last few years], and unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to. And, you know, it kind of bothers me because we had some issues that were never resolved. But I mean, what can you do? We were on track for a reunion, which I’m really sad never happened. But, you know, life and the show goes on.”
Anthony still has fond memories of his time with Van Halen and reminisced about the first time he saw Eddie play live.
“We were just out of high school, and in the city where I lived, they were having a carnival on the field for the school,” recalled Anthony. “On the weekends, they would have a few local bands play. And it was just the three guys: Eddie, [original bassist] Mark Stone and Alex [Van Halen.] And Eddie was doing the singing also. That’s the first time I ever saw him play.”
Anthony added, “I remember I was impressed because they must’ve played the whole Who ‘Live at Leeds’ [set] or whatever or any classic Cream stuff they played, Eddie played the lead stuff note for note. Back then when you’re a kid like that, that’s very impressive to see somebody playing like that.”
You can hear the entire interview with Anthony below: