David Lee Roth made a surprise return to the spotlight at Coachella, joining Teddy Swims onstage for a high-energy performance of Jump. Swims, who kicked off his main stage set with a promise of special guests, used a doorbell sound effect to introduce each collaborator. The crowd first welcomed Joe Jonas and Vanessa Carlton before the biggest surprise of the set … [Read more...]
Alex Van Halen Shares Personal Video Tribute to Donn Landee
Following the news of Donn Landee’s passing, Alex Van Halen has shared a brief, personal video tribute; a clip of himself hanging out and reminiscing with Donn Landee, offering fans a rare, candid glimpse of the legendary engineer in his later years. It's embedded here: The accompanying caption said it all: “Rest in Peace Donn Landee.” All of the recent … [Read more...]
Donn Landee, The Man Behind Van Halen’s Sound, Has Passed Away
Photo Credit: Warner Music Group Legendary recording engineer and longtime Van Halen collaborator helped shape the band's iconic sound from the very beginning. We are sad to report that the music recording world has lost an icon. Donn Landee, the recording engineer who played a pivotal role in crafting Van Halen's groundbreaking sound, passed away from natural causes … [Read more...]
5150 Expanded Edition is Out!
The 5150 Expanded Edition is out today featuring the 1986 live concert from New Haven and the Blu-ray debut of 'Live Without a Net,' along with rare b-sides, extended versions, and a deluxe 24-page book! Check out the live video for "Best Of Both Worlds" from New Haven, embedded above. And watch Sammy and Michael discuss making 5150, embedded below. "One of the the … [Read more...]
40 Years Ago: Van Halen Launches New Era With The Release Of ‘5150’
“Hello, bayyyyyy-beh!” 40 years ago today, Van Halen Mach II was born! 5150 ushered in a decade of #1 albums and sold-out tours with vocalist Sammy Hagar. Where did Van Halen get the idea for the "5150" title? 5150 is the California statute for holding those with grave mental disabilities involuntarily for 72 hours and sometimes longer pending further psychiatric … [Read more...]