Sammy Hagar has hit out at Alex Van Halen skipping the “Van Hagar” era of Van Halen in the latter’s recent memoir, Brothers.
A Lack of Acknowledgment
Released in October, Brothers chronicles the famed Californian band’s first 12 years, ending before the departure of vocalist David Lee Roth. The memoir also omits Hagar’s time with the band, the temporary line-up with Gary Cherone, and their eventual reunion with Roth.
Hagar’s Response
Hagar, who fronted Van Halen twice – between 1985 and 1996 and again from 2003 to 2005, took to social media to share his thoughts on Brothers, and why he thinks his omission from the memoir is “blasphemy”.
Earlier this week, Hagar took to Instagram to post a photo from 1991 of himself with Eddie Van Halen. Responding to a fan who commented that “most purists believe [Van Halen] ended with [David Lee Roth]”, Hagar wrote: “It could have [ended], my friend, but instead we went on to sell over 50 million records for [a] No. 1 album [then] sold out every building and stadium in the world for a whole decade. That never happened again.”
Hagar went on to continue: “Alex is not doing his brother’s musical legacy justice by not acknowledging all the No. 1 albums and some great music Eddie and I wrote together — not Alex — but Eddie and I wrote together. To not acknowledge [those] 10 years of music is blasphemy to his brother’s musicianship, songwriting and legacy.”
A Desire for Amends
Hagar’s comments come after he revealed in an interview with Rolling Stone in November that he would like to one day make amends with Alex Van Halen. He told the publication: “It’s on my bucket list that I will not take this to my grave, and I don’t want Al taking it to his grave… I understand he probably couldn’t have done the whole era in one book. It would’ve been the Bible, the dictionary, so maybe he’s got plans for a Volume 2. Who knows?”
Hagar continued: “I want to be friends, though. I don’t want to play in a band with Al. I’m not asking for that. I can see that he’s not capable of doing that. If he was, I’d be happy to play with him, but it’s not what I’m looking for. I just want to friends again.”
Ongoing Projects
In recent news, Sammy Hagar announced a Las Vegas residency after $1 million of his and Guy Fieri’s tequila was hijacked in a heist. The residency will feature his ‘Best Of Both Worlds’ band, which is comprised of guitarist Joe Satriani, bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Kenny Aronoff.
The string of dates is made up of nine nights at the Dolby Live at Park MGM. The musician will take over the venue on April 30, 2025, followed by May 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 14, 16, and 17. Visit here for tickets.
Conclusion
The omission of Hagar’s era from Alex Van Halen’s memoir has sparked controversy, with many fans and musicians expressing their discontent. Hagar’s desire to make amends and his continued creative endeavors highlight his dedication to his craft and his legacy as a musician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Sammy Hagar’s current relationship with Alex Van Halen?
A: Sammy Hagar has publicly expressed his desire to make amends with Alex Van Halen, but there has been no confirmation of their current relationship.
Q: When does Sammy Hagar’s Las Vegas residency start?
A: Sammy Hagar’s Las Vegas residency starts on April 30, 2025, and runs for nine nights.
Q: Who is part of Sammy Hagar’s ‘Best Of Both Worlds’ band?
A: Sammy Hagar’s ‘Best Of Both Worlds’ band features guitarist Joe Satriani, bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Kenny Aronoff.