Michael Anthony interview

[@thesaj1110]

Mike is a class act all around. He never bad mouthed anyone! Even the people who hurt him. That is a true gentleman.

[@Wagonerli50]

Michael Anthony is one if not the coolest guys in rock. He NEVER says anything bad about anyone even when he gets screwed & is always respectful to people.

[@MrROTD]

Sammy Hagar said he was the only guy who was honest and true when the breakup happened.

[@hsad1234]

there's an emotional interview with Sammy where he defends Michael. Alex and Eddie were not always cool.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well said!

[@billlonee9470]

Such a class act. Doesn't trash anyone, says nothing but nice/great things about Wolfgang, and really just loves to play.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@sikorik9964]

Boys and Girls this is what they call a Gentleman.

[@markandersen793]

It's that old adage:"if you have nothing nice to say, you really should say nothing."

[@opendebate]

That's stupid. You gotta say what you gotta say even if it's painful then move on.

[@opendebate]

People will always have prejudice regardless. So better say what you gotta say anyway, cause the truth will set you free.

[@raulcastro3277]

@Roxanne Daniel I agree whole heartedly.

[@danielfronc4304]

@@opendebate It's the mature adult who know's that nothing will change and no good will come from bad words. I truly believe he still felt a brotherhood with the band and realized that had he been in EVH's position that he would have done the same thing. However, that being said, with all his years of faithful service to the band I would've still paid him an equal band member's cut if he was edged out just because EVH wanted his son in the band. It's only fair. However, over the years EVH never impressed me as anyone more than a guy who just wanted to write music and play songs. Asking Gene Simmons if he could join KISS (KISS!) because he couldn't tolerate or reign in Roth? Hell, VH was his band and he was the only exceptional part of it. He should've read Roth the riot act. EVH just didn't have the necessary backbone. Amazing.

[@dj-wi5uu]

Michael Anthony is one if not the coolest guys in rock. He NEVER says anything bad about anyone even when he gets screwed & is always respectful to people.

[@lisafoster1550]

YEP

[@ENigma-um8zw]

DEFINITELY. The fans know and see that too, I think more than the bigger rock stars realize, even more so in this era of "rock" compared to the eras pre-internet-media communications.

[@BubbaZen10]

And he had the voice that made the band great.

[@vlada]

I'm not sure thats something to be emulated. You can be a good Christian and forgive but there's something to be said about standing up for yourself and not let people take advantage of you.

[@shelbybrown3597]

He's very humble

[@OlleForsberg]

No one could do the harmonies like Mike.

[@vbvixen7029]

Olle Forsberg yup. he BROUGHT MORE SEXINESS TO ALL THE TUNES

[@dantierney5563]

It took me a long time to figure out who was singing those killer harmonies.

[@timrooney5608]

So glad you said this, most people don't give him credit

[@ThaiThom]

His voice is the icing on the cake.

[@northwind8282]

Him and Eddie were a force to be reckoned with

[@glennjoshua9950]

Michael Anthony's backing vocals in Van Halen ranks with the best ever in American rock.

[@777jones]

Chris Squire is the only guy I can think of who was also SO talented in both regards. Edit: and Paul McCartney.

[@kenduffy5397]

@@777jones I don’t think the casual VH fans know how important his backups vocals were. (Bass guitar style) The pro’s know but I don’t think Michael gets enough credit for being the incredibly talented professional musician that he truly is!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes.

[@chuckbabs8630]

Mike is a class act. I wish I had half the humility and goodwill that he has. He truly seems like a man who is at peace with himself. It's inspiring.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@jackwilliams988]

Without Michael , there was no van halen , he was the core of the vocals , played the perfect team player , and one classy stand up guy !! Thanks Mike for all the great music you put out with both singers , your back ups are what really what made those songs complete , thank you so much , 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 the best to you 🙏🙏🙏

[@luisbohorquez7096]

Jack Williams Absolutely correct my friend 🤙🤙🤙🎸🎸🎸

[@youjoker9647]

What a great comment. He's more human than the other 3 famous VH members

[@jamesstevens5329]

Not only that but he has aged much better than his other bandmates. Looks much younger than his actual age.

[@idk012]

@@youjoker9647 he's a humans being that shines on

[@kenduffy5397]

Jim, you’re so right and I was shocked at how young and great he looks! Unfortunately, we lost Edward. Eddie Van Halen was a good person in his own right however what he did to Michael was not cool on any level! I don’t care if Eddie wrote every VH song (he didn’t) he should have never made his bass player, backup vocalist & a really good friend give up 20% of his holdings in the band, pathetic! The band was making millions upon millions upon millions did that 20% matter much when talking numbers this big? No, it doesn’t! The whole band is making millions yet the brothers are squabbling over Pennies, it was such BS & not away to treat a friend! (Friend being the operative word)

[@mcguffeyboy]

You are not only a hell of a bass player- you are one hell of a classy guy!

[@joshuagordon8590]

mcguffeyboy My

[@Larrymh07]

Yeah, maybe if beating on the root all day long is what one would call great bass playing. I do like this guy and always thought he could play way better than what Van Halen would allow.

[@Flamestar320]

@@Larrymh07 Yeah, some of Mike's bass can be pretty simple from Van Halen. But thankfully The Circle allows Mike to be a little more colorful with his bass playing.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nice! 😀

[@RobertFairweatherMusic]

Mike is a class act!!!! Best back up vocalist in the history of Rock n Roll and a humble dude. Cheers Mike.

[@ragzrocco8803]

Play Amazing Guitar u know it brotha

[@HankFinkle11]

Play Amazing Guitar very important to the Van Halen sound.

[@markburke3040]

Really best background vocals what about Chris squire better bass player better singer Brian may better singer as well

[@Ed-pj7fk]

One of the coolest guys out there, absolutely. Best backup vocal in rock history, I’d say it’s a toss up between him and The Edge.

[@lawrencewestfall4094]

@@ragzrocco8803 q

[@EricBlackmonGuitar]

Micheal Anthony! Great bassist, great guy! An example of what kind of musician every other musician wants to play with!

[@williamsawyer4103]

EricBlackmonGuitar/ Well said, plus 100% right on the truth. I don't no why these people are putting him down. It's ridiculous. You could just tell from the very first album, and especially seeing them in concert, that "Big Mike", was a genuine example of a fine human being, plus had LOADS of talent. Perfect for Van Halen!

[@jeffreybiscoe6]

I remember seeing VH on 3rd lp . First show I ever seen where the whole band seemed equall not just a front man, a guitar player and in the back a bass player + drummer. Michael was huge part of the sound + show.

[@jerseysucks6158]

William Sawyer - Mikey is awesome!! I truly believe,he,was improving on every single album!

[@revertinotse8582]

EricBlackmonGuitar. And that.s why none of heard any new Materials from Chickenfoot. Cause Drummer Chad Smith still with R H C P. Once their tour or Promoting their Whatever Record.is finished. Than Go back to C F. However Chickenfoot is no more Both Smith & Satrani left. Replaced by Drummer Jason Bonham. John.s Son. And got Guitarist Vic Johnson . As well The Change of Name. Group.s Called The Circle

[@oldgit4260]

And great hair transplant

[@admtech69]

Michael Anthony is an all around class act and has kept his dignity and sterling reputation intact by not engaging in mudslinging. His solid bass playing and backing vocals defined THE classic VH sound. It irked me to no end how Eddie disparaged him later, which was complete BS. Keep going Mike and looking forward to your next project.

[@kenduffy5397]

admtech69, your are 💯 correct!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@michaelr.4878]

Nicest guy in the music industry. Not only is he a great person, but he is a fantastic musician. He plays his bass the way it is supposed to be played. He plays 'for the song'... never adding unnecessary runs or cluttering things up. Plus, when he was in Van Halen, he was playing without a rhythm guitar player. So when Ed went into a solo, Mike had to hold the fort and keep everything on track. Van Halen never sounded thin when Mike was playing. But what really puts Michael Anthony over the top as a musician is his vocal ability. Back ground vocalists never get much attention..but anyone who understands singing, knows that Michael is an amazing singer. Much like Roger Taylor in Queen, Michael can hit those super high notes that the lead singer can't always hit during a live performance. So like Taylor, Michael is the band's secret weapon.

[@stantonvalberg9814]

Absolutely spot on.

[@bossHogOG]

Ed was a rhythm player.

[@CuzBassShow1966]

Perfectly said Michael about Michael :) Bass & Backing Vocals Michael Anthony Rules!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well put. Thanks! 😀👍

[@richjohn2497]

Its hard to believe that this guy was in one of the biggest and most successful rock bands in history. A truly grounded human being. Respect and love.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nicely said. Thanks.

[@Mike990920]

Absolutely love Michael in interviews!! Such a humble guy!!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yeah, that was a fun interview. Thanks, Mike!

[@ulyssesmars9520]

You can have a Van Halen reunion tour but without Micheal Anthony it is Not Van Halen.

[@alanpaola5266]

you are tottaly right buddy!

[@Ed-pj7fk]

Amen on that brother

[@freddyferrillo9704]

Can't stand watching Wolfgang playing Bass for his daddy's band. Saw them in 2010. The worst of the worst VH concert I ever witnessed. And i saw them twice in1982, 84, 86, 88.

[@Military-Museum-LP]

👍

[@erock9374]

freddy ferrillo that’s got nothing to do with Wolfy playing bass. If it wasn’t gonna be MA, who else ?

[@johntg123]

I had the honor of playing with him on stage. We played "I'm the One" He called me the Queen of the Six String. He is a great guy - hung out after the show - talked to the kids - signed autographs. Class act all the way.

[@rafro007]

Hats off to you, Ms. George. What an honor and a privilege!

[@RobertSmith-sq1wg]

Taylor George name dropper

[@skywriter0810]

I had the opportunity to host a Q&A with Mike. He is a real gentleman and just a really good guy.

[@RobertSmith-sq1wg]

Pietro Psalm yawn

[@losblancos5089]

Says the saddest man evers, lol.

[@mutt8553]

Mike has to be the nicest guy in the music industry. He isn’t trashing anyone, especially since he definitely could, he got screwed over. He’s respectful, insightful, a class act through and through. Thanks for posting this interview

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Thanks for leaving word, Mutt. Yes, Michael is a class act for sure!

[@DerGlaetze]

I can tell all of you guys right now, Mike is a great guy. He’s lived in my area in Glendora, Ca for many years. He has always been approachable and down to earth. He comes from a good family too.

[@user-kp1ry3so2s]

I thought he lives in Newport Beach now if I’m not mistaken

[@DerGlaetze]

@@user-kp1ry3so2s Yes. That’s correct. He moved a few years ago to NB on the harbor.

[@user-kp1ry3so2s]

@@DerGlaetze i go to Newport very often I would be so excited if I ever saw him or Sammy.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Thanks!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@Ogscottyp]

Mike is sure as hell more of a stand up guy than Eddie and Alex. They put all of the fights and dirty business out there but Mike just stays reserved and avoids shit talk.

[@misong3708]

Scott Patterson I have to disagree. The brothers haven't spoken to or about either Mike or Sam since their tour ended in 2004. Not a word. Sam wrote a tell all book and threw them under the bus. He continues to bash them in the media at every opportunity even as recently as just a few weeks ago when the live album came out. Mike, too, has given interviews about the brothers, not bashing like Sam but he sure hasn't been "quiet".

[@Ogscottyp]

I have to disagree. I myself have seen the interview where they talked about Sammy. Not hear say. My own eyes and ears.

[@misong3708]

Please post the link or your source.

[@Ogscottyp]

Mi Song I am looking for the site if it is still there. It has been several years since I saw it. I can send you the one.of Eddie and Alex acting like royal dicks snd badmouthing DLR.

[@misong3708]

Thanks, no. Just want to see something where they've bad mouthed either Sam or Mike since 2004. I hope you keep an open mind about Eddie and Alex -- someday the truth will come out just like it did about Dave leaving.

[@drumr72]

The secret ingredient of VH...the glue. Not only a badass bassist, but seriously talented vocalist as well. He is the man laying down the harmonies that helped give them their overall sound. One of the most seriously underrated musicians by the general public...but us real players and music fans know how talented he really is. Great guy as well, very humble and down to earth.

[@kenduffy5397]

I’m such a big Eddie fan that I do not like to think that Eddie as being a selfish person. (We are all selfish but making someone give up his 20% of interest in a band that is making millions upon millions upon millions of dollars is ridiculous) However, facts are facts & the fact is David, Alex and Eddie made Michael sign over his 20% of stakes is very much not cool… I’m surprised and upset because I just read that today and it is affecting my feelings towards Eddie. A part of me wants to believe that Eddie was so f…ed up at the time that he was talked into doing that to Michael? I’d like to think that was the case, but I doubt it!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well said! Thanks.

[@jasontman36]

THE ONLY ONE WITHOUT A HUGE EGO! MICHAEL IS THE COOLEST! ...YO!

[@kennethlatham3133]

Much like Entwistle of the Who.

[@Rita-yw2tn]

He & Sammy both are class acts they’re just plain and simple great guys . 🎸🥁🎹🎶❤️

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@Andolini73]

The only sane one from VH.

[@WilliamBrown-gj8rt]

+Andolini73 And the only one I believe in interviews.

[@adan2374]

+Andolini73 Haha yeah pretty much, but nonetheless I still respect all of the former Van Halen members, except for maybe Roth. As a person I think he's essentially an egomaniac, so for me he's a bit hard to like. I definitely respect him as an artist, very talented frontman/entertainer, and for creating the amazing music that he did with Van Halen before his departure, but other than that the guy just rubs me the wrong way. Sammy and Mikey are my favorites - especially Sammy - because of how much of a go getter he is, someone that makes things happen, and yet still remains a charismatic and friendly person. Plus he's just cool as hell, and is still killin' it at his age performing live with his band The Circle. I admire so many characteristics about him, and in my mind he's one of the most badass rockstars who's ever walked the planet.

[@jeffreycinotto8806]

Adam L

[@wesnorthcutt639]

the only member of vh who's last name isn't van halen, should've had valerie singing, nepotism goes along way in the vh camp.

[@justice_productions_]

Adam L Yes But being that way is what makes Dave, DAVE!!!

[@davidbcossini8928]

This a stand up guy! A lot of respect for him, learn from this Eddie.

[@robink.9966]

Multi millionaire who played root notes and never contributed a lick let alone a song. He’s a nice guy because he knows he’s the luckiest guy in rock.

[@dereksmallsuk]

@@robink.9966 No.

[@AndrewReevesArt]

@@robink.9966really bad take - he was a great player who could sing his ass off

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@GGood]

Ladies and gentlemen, if you’re gonna be in a band, be a Michael Anthony.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Love it! Thanks, Garrett!

[@tldubbtldubb]

Any bassist who can keep up with EVH and Joe Satriani is okay in my book. I've always loved Mike and still do.

[@wesnorthcutt639]

hang on...not a musician I take it.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@mbolduc]

Michael Anthony is maybe the one rock musician I can't think of anything negative to say about. Amazing player, amazing singer, amazing guy all around

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@le_th_]

Seems like such a real person who is emotionally mature and balanced enough to know that the "dirt" isn't important. I'm so glad to hear him talk because being in VH, you always either had Dave, Eddie or Sammy hogging the spotlight. This is why it is so important to interview members of a band separately.

[@Rita-yw2tn]

I totally agree with you I’ve thought about the same thing I’ve really heard him talking a lot or boasting like DLR . He seems to be a really great guy to me anyway . 😊🎸

[@michaelroecker2649]

Straight up comment sense and class.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Thanks!

[@leehanson1416]

Met Mike in '86 or '87. He's the greatest celeb I've ever met, nice, polite, engaging, and happy to talk with me. Class act.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Cool. Thanks, Lee!

[@MickeFamily]

He's my favorite (former) member of Van Halen. He never talked shit like EVH. Class act.

[@benallmark9671]

W Joseph Micke me too hands down. The only one that has any morals.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@antonioortiz4544]

He's a great bass player. He doesn't show off. He plays for the song.

[@111highgh]

+anton lavey Fuck you.

[@waynesmith747]

+111highgh no,fuck you FUCK FACE......

[@WarPigs413]

+111highgh Really unnecessary ..

[@bachrocktheamericahatersan5799]

+111highgh Damn, dude! How high are you? Knock off about 110 units. Then you'll only be 1 high.

[@111highgh]

BachRock I'm stroking my brains out.

[@computarman]

Nice, classy guy who kept it positive.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

That’s Mike all right! 👍

[@alexisgordon2759]

I can't believe the power trip after all these years. Now I completely see and understand... I saw Van in 1984 ŵlwhen I was 11yrs..... Micheal is a modest incredible Bass Master!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes indeed. Thanks for weighing in, Alexis.

[@smorgdonkey]

Mike Anthony is a super classy guy.

[@benallmark9671]

smorgdonkey super classy

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes he is!

[@pismo10]

His back vocals were his biggest contribution

[@luisbohorquez7096]

Totally agree . Best part of VH if you ask me..Awesome dude. Wish him the best 🤙🤙🤙😁

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

His vocals were definitely a big part of the VH sound.

[@ruipereira9559]

He should have gotten paid the exact equal amount that all the band members were making. He's a great guy and a big part of VH.

[@ruipereira9559]

Listen to " everybody wants some " its the bass that makes the song fantastic. Your the Man Micheal

[@CodyCole80]

🤔 He wasn’t??? I thought all bands split money equally.

[@wigglyjoker8575]

@@CodyCole80 iirc, they gave Mike an ultimatum around the time of 1984 which made him give up his songwriting credits (no royalties) and he also lost rights to money from merchandise, or else he had to leave. He chose to agree to the contract

[@deebop4904]

@@wigglyjoker8575 it was 2004, not 1984

[@wigglyjoker8575]

@@deebop4904 ah alright, thanks for straightening that out. All that stuff can get kinda confusing at times

[@BayareaJay]

I saw him sing a Van Halen song with some other musicians and let me tell you, He could easily be the lead singer for VH, I was truly blown away by his voice.

[@kevinsbott]

BayareaJay they were absolutely crazy not to let Michael sing some songs when he was with van Halen. Anybody that can sing back up that well is also a great lead singer.

[@flatlandrory]

I can believe that sir

[@mchayo56]

BayareaJay Always cXh

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@zgolijan]

Micheal is an amazing bass player. The bottom end is always full and his voice, which is sadly missed in VH, is what made the VH sound. Backing vocals bring another dimension to a bands sound. The new VH album doesn't sound like Van Halen because Michael Anthony is not on them for all the reason I already mentioned. I surprised that Eddie can't hear the difference and that they aren't as good without Micheal. This is a common response by fans of the band, you think VH would listen to us and bring Michael back. It's like Led Zeppelin without John Paul Jones. Don't undervalue bass players and the the importance they are to the sound of the band, to your peril.

[@tyronemuhamid1136]

Definitely a musical badass. You are so right about his background vocals.

[@monsta64]

YOU...GOT...THAT...SHIT...RIGHT!!! Love Mikey since day one!

[@paulsecon2131]

I more than agree😎

[@garysnooks5594]

Well put. Solid musician and obviously solid guy. He just will not talk bad about them as bandmates. It would diminish him as it has already done to Ed

[@Wicasta]

Agreed. Van Halen without Michael Anthony doesn't sound like Van Halen to me. Dude doesn't get the credit he deserves for being an integral part of that sound.

[@richalderson6069]

It's pretty dreadful how EVH has to dump all his issues on this guy but we can see obviously who the nicer guy is. Keep on spitting out all those monster bass lines Michael!!

[@daveobrien68]

The Ace of the Bass. You gotta build a song line a house foundation first . Bass and Drums gotta be there or song suffers!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

😀

[@timothysmith1603]

What an absolutely incredible human being. Michael Anthony, you are truly a class act.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@sethcashman1011]

I've returned to this interview numerous times over the years, which should tell you how I feel about it. MIke is a class act who was, by myriad accounts, treated very poorly by an organization to which he contributed so much for decades. An underrated player, to say the very least. Thanks for the fantastic content.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nice tribute, Seth. Thanks for weighing in!

[@YogaArmy]

Love MIchael Anthony. He's such a Gentlemen not to throw those 2 knucklehead brothers under the bus esp. after the way they treated him. SHAMEFUL

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@maxwelter758]

After watching this this interview I now know who is and always was the coolest and sweetest guy in the band. Much more success to you my man.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nice.

[@AnimalHouseforReal]

Michael's a class act. Van Halen isn't the same without his vocals.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Very true.

[@lauraPerez-du5ql]

Oh no way Mike! I can never forget you! You are the reason I named my son Michael Anthony! ❤

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Wow! Now that’s a fan! 😂

[@paistekid]

This man has class unlike the "other" 3 guys in VH! Van Halen can still be be VH without Diamond Dave or Hagar but will NEVER be without Mike.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@myworstenemy680]

Mike is a class act. He's better off distancing himself from the abomination that is currently touring as Van Halen imo. Eddie's rants in the press are definitely a different kind of truth. I think it's called bullshit? Mike is, and always has been a great bass player and an outstanding backing vocalist. He is the definition of a team player.

[@erict7185]

Agreed!

[@stevedrake604]

Mike's excellent background vocals and fun stage persona were a foundation of Van Halen. It's missed.

[@myworstenemy680]

Steve Drake Agreed! They used to be all about the fun!

[@test-ks7ux]

Another vote for that. He comes over as a great guy here. Full marks to him.

[@surfinDelMar]

MyworstEnemy I loved Van Halen, especially Eddie. I'm so bummed to see and hear him be such a fucking asshole. He's clearly the problem and Alex just follows Eddie's lead. What a shame. They've destroyed the band several times and alienated three really cool people. The third being Gary Cherone even though people didn't like him as a lead singer of VH.

[@smilinachya]

Wow, what a down to earth guy.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes!

[@7thfleet306]

You can't have Van Halen without the Jack Daniels bass playing man. That's like Led Zeppelin without John Paul Jones.

[@Whitedove6]

Exactly !

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Good point!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@roger6384]

Michael, rode on the train in the begining, but as time passed he was the tracks the train ran on. Mike your a rock hero, and we all know how much you did! Thanks BRO!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Why a great way of putting it. Thanks, Roger!

[@hanoitwin]

I've seen Michael Anthony around town. He seems like a real nice guy... with some sweet cars!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

😀

[@lighthouse44]

Even though Eddie Van Halen royally screwed Michael Anthony and trashes him every chance he gets for absolutely no reason, Michael Anthony always takes the high road and never fires back even though he has every right to do so. Just goes to show how much of a class act Michael Anthony is and how much a petty miserable asshole Eddie Van Halen is.

[@benallmark9671]

lighthouse44 so true eh. I can guarantee you he’s had a happier life and is the only one out of the bunch that doesn’t have to hang his head about a dam thing ! Class act all the way.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@anthonydunbar490]

Totally agree. MA you are a class act! Stay true to yourself!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Very true. Thanks, Anthony.

[@SombraPiloto]

Mikey is the man. As a wannabe guitarist I've always loved and admired EVH but now that I've grown older (if not up) if I were ever given the choice to meet and hang out with any of the VHers I'd most definitely want it to be Mike and Sammy.

[@delimac59]

+SombraPiloto Especially considering the fact that Eddie and Alex didn't even show up for their induction into the R&R HOF! But Sammy and Mike did! Kinda speaks volumes right? I understand that the R&R HOF is pretty much a beauty pageant, but still it IS THEIR Name! At LEAST show up and piss em off like Alex Lifeson did!! LOL! Blah,blah,blah!

[@111highgh]

+SombraPiloto You wouldn't want to hang out with Diamond Dave?

[@SombraPiloto]

111highgh Nope, Dave is a nothing more than a bad caricature of a goofy Vegas lounge singer these days and his butchering of the classic songs is embarrassing and offensive to my ears.

[@111highgh]

SombraPiloto I take it you didn't buy the new Van Halen live album?

[@SombraPiloto]

I'd sooner spend my money on a hammer to drive nails into my ears than buy that crap, it would be less painful. Even the genius of a healthy and revitalized EVH isn't enough to make up for Dave's sad shtick.

[@mikenkc7953]

I saw the Sammy and Dave tour with Michael playing bass for both. He got the loudest ovation of all of them. His backing vocals were what made VH special

[@mikes51501]

Mike didn’t play bass for Dave on that tour

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@waterwoodguitars6871]

Michael just seems like such a straight forward, good dude. Never any shit talking, bs drama with him. He’s living his life, playing music and spreading positivity. What a guy.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well said. Thanks!

[@mousearebec]

Seems like a stand up guy.......not a drama queen like VH wants to be. All about the music...... that's what we want.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes.

[@JRKIXASS]

One of the most underrated bassists ever. Also a class guy. The glue that held the circus together. Yeah, Edward is one of the greatest, but whenever you hear "Running With the Devil", the parts you remember most is Michael. This man has put out one of the best resumes as a bassist and deserves the respect for his work, talent and for always putting his band first.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@wildcat11100]

Great musician and an even better man! Always takes the high road when talking about Van Halen.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yep!

[@TheMkarr]

All of the signature high harmony lines of VH are sung by Mike. The best vocals were when he & Sammy are together. He is a class act with a good head. Cool posting. Thanks.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Glad you liked it. Thanks!

[@kenno251]

Michael Anthony = The best bass guitarist ever !!!! And all around nice guy .

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@usefulvidiots7869]

Bass players are always the most humble, most normal in a band.

[@dbd31463]

Most of the time. I don't think Les Claypool would qualify.

[@bigdaddyboo1863]

Useful Vidiots Nikki Sixx? lmao

[@CooManTunes]

Jaco Pastorius' selling pitch to Joe Zawinul was that he was the greatest bass player ever. He backed it up.

[@miket851]

They have to be or they won't last long, unless they are a major part of the music no way would a guitar player or singer let the bass player show him up or steal even a portion the light, not all the time but most

[@CooManTunes]

+Mike T The same goes for any member of a band, you moron. If you're a guitarist or singer who is not involved in the music and tries to show off or steal the spotlight, then you won't last long either.

[@davel793]

Great guy! Seen him with the original band at Cobol Hall and they were awesome

[@benallmark9671]

Dave L that would have been a great treat. Lucky bastard.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Cool!

[@robertomartin3235]

He seems like a really nice person. I like the way he's forgiving and wishes wolfgang lots of luck. Good luck Mike and god bless you .

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@Confidentk9sCa]

Thank you Michael for all the great music you've made. All you're time with Van Halen has given me such great memories. Love that you chose to keep making a music a priority. Never stop.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@shockwave5150]

Michael is a true showman, would love to meet him someday.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Great guy!

[@RickeyTrickie]

Michael Anthony, miss ya bud

[@richis404]

lol

[@bradvanotten2398]

Life is too short to burn bridges or judge people. Treat everyone the way you want to be treated and you can’t go wrong. I like all of the Van Halen members- New, Old and in between. They made Rock n Roll a lot of what it is today. So I will always be grateful no matter how it all works out. Peace and Love my Brothas. Lol

[@JRKIXASS]

Maybe you should call him. He's a guy that might get you up to speed with things and on a good path. You're better off with him & Sammy then the Brothers Grimm. Do a Van Halen tour without anybody named Van Halen involved in it. Even call it Sam Halen if you have to!

[@tomayres4237]

David try to get him Back in VH!!! That would be a gift to the world!!!!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@airtexaco]

Mike is a genuinely good dude and shows how much here. It’s nice to see the comments here on how well he sings.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Agreed. Thanks, Dean!

[@232323C]

Very gracious and kind man with lots of bass talent!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes!

[@mikieson]

really hate all the problems VH have had over the years..Great band with power hungry leaders running it..This guy is talented and humble..awesome.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@Cigarsnguitars]

There needs to be more Michael Anthony’s in this world. He comes from a whole different place than 95% of the typical rocker. Helluva bassist, helluva man.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well said. Thanks for weighing in.

[@mv9787]

Michael seems genuinely good hearted guy! Great role model to us all

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Agreed.

[@HILLBILLYinHELL]

I think Michael is a great guy for just keeping it between them. Just like Sammy pretty much doesn't talk about what happen at the end Michael is doing the same. I was really happy to hear the Mike and Sammy got back together and are playing together again. Michael seems like a great guy, down to earth, and the kind of guy you would like to sit down and talk with and if you play jam with. I have a lot of respect for Michael!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nicely put. Thanks!

[@katrinka1SF.BayArea]

A humble gentleman with a soul filled with nothing but kindness. Wish I could meet him. Much love &warm hugs from Katrinka in the San Francisco Bay Area ❤️🌴

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yeah, Mike’s one of the good ones for sure. Thanks, Katrinka.

[@katrinka1SF.BayArea]

@@ForBassPlayersOnly If you have a way to connect him let him know that there's a really nice pretty lady that has crushed on him for like ever and she deserves to meet someone nice like Michael Anthony 🤣🫣😊

[@davidmohr1920]

Mike you are awesome I have been playing bass for almost 50 years now and I love listening to your music on top of that you are such a class act you never say anything bad about you know who I know you are in heaven now playing with Sammy who thinks you are a rock god you can tell he loves you like a Brother :-)

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Thanks for weighing in, David!

[@neilmurrell281]

A great bass player with a amazing vocal talent and a all round good guy. Respect to you Mike.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@gowanian]

Michael Anthony is one of the most humble, down to earth famous musicians I've ever seen, and heard in interviews...

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes.

[@classicactionfigures3454]

Michael Anthony, always a class act. Humble and talented. Keep on rocking !

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

That’s Michael all right!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@eiderdown6208]

Michael Anthony, class! super interview and nice guy.

[@rfd73]

Eider Down Agree, he is a great guy, a badass bass player and the best bass player VH could have ever had

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@mikepreciado7807]

This man is a benchmark for other musicians to attain. True cornerstone of VH

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@jackwilliams988]

Dave was great on the entertainment side , really loved his style , and his recordings with van halen are timeless , cannot take anything away !! Sammy Hagar , insane vocals , brought a whole new dynamic to van halen , really loved & miss them both !!! What years they were , Eddie & Alex 👏👏👏👏👏 despite all the ups & downs for whatever reason , who cares , I'm taking all the good you guys brought to our world & you really rocked our asses off in so many ways over so many years , 👏👏👏👏👏 GOD BLESS YOU ALL !!! And thank you so much for all that you've given us ,, eternally grateful !! 🙏🙏🙏

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@benjaminscherrey1124]

Classy guy. True rock & roller!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes!

[@ILSRWY4]

Geddy Lee and Michael Anthony were my favorite bassists, and BOTH are class acts... gifts to rock~!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Thanks for weighing in!

[@seaside882000]

if there was one member of van halen that you could choose to throw you a life raft if you were drowning it would be mike anthony. good dude.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Nice comment. Thanks! 👍

[@theartist124]

Also one of the best back up singers there is!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes!

[@matthewronsson]

Seven years later and Michael's example shines even brighter after Eddie passed away, giving hindsight that doing the right thing(s) really is its own reward. As so many others have commented on here and elsewhere, Michael never stooped down into the tar pit that the VH brothers wallowed in and tossed a mud ball back at either of those two, even if anyone could hardly blame him for doing so, and others thinking they'd deserve no less. Not this man. Never a cross remark towards VH, even if it was the truth. He let it slide like water off of a Duck's back while the VH brothers smeared and insulted away. He just kept doing what he did and kept moving on. Having never indulged in any mud raking, there is nothing to look back on to regret having said or done now that Eddie has passed. It really puts things in perspective. Nothing would have changed for the better had he said his piece back then, so he kept his peace. The only retorts back to VH that I heard was from Sammy (I haven't heard any other responses in kind back at VH from him), who only did so in defense of Michael after Eddie made the ludicrous claims that Michael, after playing with VH for what must have been around two decades, suddenly "couldn't play Bass" also claiming "he had to teach Michael how to play". One THAT note Sammy went off a little bit to set the record straight, saying "ask anybody in the business, and they will place Michael in the top 5 of Bass players in the industry". Per usual, Michael said nothing and let it slide and never had anything but kind regards for Wolfgang. In the end, Eddie is gone and Alex is done and retired as far as I know, but Michael is still working and relevant in music to this day, with his integrity intact. What would it have mattered now if he had responded to those ludicrous accusations and their contemptuous treatment of him? He kept to the high road and kept looking forward, not back, with no time for any sideways glances and it is easy to tell he is so much better off for it. He didn't take any of that baggage with him, because if you start slinging mud, even if true, some always splashes back on you. That is so much easier to say than to do. It isn't surprising that Michael would contribute to the creation of his hot sauce, rather then just licencing his name to be slapped on a bottle of Hot Sauce (or whatever product) as a lot of celebrities do.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

That’s quite a tribute, Matthew. Thanks for the time and thought you out into it!

[@ravok23]

Michael Anthony = Class act, great voice, solid bass player, and all around nice guy.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

All true. Thanks, Sam.

[@jmmcdon25]

What a cool guy, lots of class. Great musician.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@bledgerwoodSD]

Good Luck Mike! Class act!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍😀

[@danielhower5950]

Great interview. Many thanks! Very interesting and very polite.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Glad you liked it. Thanks!

[@seansutube5791]

Got to meet Mike back in the day. Couldn't have been nicer and instantly became my guitar hero. Kids, meeting your heros isn't always bad. Rock on Mike 🤘

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

It could have gone either way. Glad it worked out the way it did. Go, Mike! 👍😁

[@JR-zv6qm]

Mike taking the high road. What a class act. All respect to you Mike.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

For sure. Thanks, JR.

[@msaz2720]

Mike’s a class act, phenomenal bassist, singer and all around nice guy. 🙌🏼

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well said, Martha!

[@annetteathanasatos1229]

Michael Anthony seems like such a nice young man. Very respectful, & handsome too. He knows his guitar, he is great. Wishing you all the very best Michael.🕺

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍

[@JoeZamecki]

Good interview. Michael seems like a real normal guy. I like that.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yep!

[@josephpernock9581]

Class Act.Great Bass Player and Singer.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yep

[@bassdonaldo]

Hands down, one of the best, if not THE best bass/vocalist EVER in ROCK!!! Oh? Did I mention the fact he has CLASS?

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

😁

[@SquirrelTheater]

Mike has always been a class act. Period.

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Yes!

[@gilmourwaters]

Micks a stand up guy. Doesn't want to be a "rock star" ..he's a musician! Class act... Nothing but respect for him

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

Well stated, thanks!

[@Joesfosterdogs]

Great guy! He was the glue. Both he and Alex laid such a deep foundation. Very consistent personality. Hot sauce...love it!

[@ForBassPlayersOnly]

👍🥵😂