Sammy Hagar Explores Tensions with David Lee Roth Over Concert Conflicts

Sammy Hagar has recently opened up about the intense conflicts he experienced with David Lee Roth during their co-headlining tour in 2002. Hagar shared his frustrations in an interview with Rolling Stone, recounting moments that nearly led him to physical violence against Roth.

In 1985, Hagar stepped in for Roth as the lead vocalist of Van Halen, joining a lineup that included iconic members like guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen, and bassist Michael Anthony. Although Hagar left the band in 1996, he reunited with Van Halen from 2003 to 2005. Roth’s tenure as the lead singer of Van Halen lasted from 1974 to 1985, with a brief return to the band in 1996 before rejoining as a full-time member from 2006 until the group disbanded in 2020.

The Ongoing Rivalry

The rivalry between Hagar and Roth has persisted for decades, stemming partially from their time in the iconic rock band. The two musicians experienced a unique dynamic during their joint tour titled ‘Song for Song, The Heavyweight Champs of Rock and Roll.’ Despite their common goal of putting on a successful show, behind-the-scenes tensions and public disputes often emerged.

Hagar’s Reflection on Roth

During the recent interview, Hagar revealed his reluctance to share the stage with Roth again. He noted that the circumstances would need to be just right for such an event to happen. In his typical candid style, he stated that Roth often desires too much and tends to overshadow his fellow performers.

Hagar recounted specific instances from their 2002 tour, saying, “Dave always tries to upstage. He pulled stuff on the Sam and Dave tour when we flipped who was opening. I don’t think I would ever bother being an opening act for anyone again.” This statement clearly highlights Hagar’s strong desire for equal footing in performances and his frustration with Roth’s behavior.

Concert Disruptions and Fan Relations

Hagar did not shy away from discussing how Roth’s actions affected their fans. He claimed there were several occasions when Roth canceled performances at the last minute, leaving Hagar to take the stage solo. “On those nights, he would call in and say that the bus broke down, 10 minutes before he was supposed to go on. I care about my fans, so I would go on. I did that about four times and felt like I wanted to break the guy’s neck,” Hagar expressed, emphasizing the emotional toll these incidents took on him.

Interestingly, Hagar remarked that Roth’s performances tended to falter when he headlined, especially when trying to replicate classic Van Halen moments. Hagar noted Roth’s performances often seemed stale, stating, “He couldn’t follow me with a band of kids playing Eddie’s guitar solo note for note. He should have presented himself more as a solo artist rather than relying on past hits.”

Hagar’s Musical Legacy

Sammy Hagar first gained fame in the early 1970s as the lead singer of the band Montrose. Before joining Van Halen, he established a respectable solo career. Reflecting on his musical journey, Hagar expressed gratitude for his success and independence as an artist. He proudly noted that he was fortunate to create music under his own image before joining the arena of Van Halen.

Hagar acknowledged the challenges many artists face when transitioning from a world-famous band to a solo career. He believes that having a successful solo venture before joining a prominent group significantly benefited his confidence and artistry. He stated, “Even Mick Jagger and other giants of rock can tell you that the shift from being in the biggest band in the world to going solo is not an easy feat.”

Preserving Musical Integrity

Despite his legacy and the influence he has had on rock music, Hagar remains grounded when discussing his vocal abilities. He understands the realities of aging and how it can affect a singer’s voice over time. However, he has made it clear that he will only deliver songs he can perform to the best of his ability.

“If I can’t sing the songs, I ain’t going to do it. Fortunately, I’ve written about 600 songs throughout my life, covering all my bands and solo work. That gives me plenty of options for performance without straining my voice too much,” he said, showcasing his dedication to performing authentically for his fans.

The Future of Hagar’s Music

Ultimately, despite the tensions with Roth and the challenges of the music industry, Sammy Hagar remains a steadfast figure in rock. He has built a substantial catalog that reflects his growth as an artist while respecting his past. As he continues to evaluate his career and craft, Hagar’s commitment to maintaining his vocal integrity and performing quality music will undoubtedly resonate with fans moving forward.

In his own words, Hagar encapsulates the essence of his artistry by stating, “I don’t want people out there screaming for ‘Dreams’ if I can’t deliver it. It’s about providing the best possible experience for the audience, and I’m committed to that.”