Guitarist NIXED SINGER's Cover Song In Favor of his Original…Became Band's Only #1-Professor of Rock

The story of this next song is so good. So entertaining it almost feels made up, but it’s not. Van Halen with David Lee Roth at the helm headlined one of the first big festivals of the 80s… while they were in the middle of working on the song Jump from their blockbuster hard rock masterpiece 1984. The other big headliner was the Clash, the most famous punk band on the planet, and Joe Strummer and co dissed Eddie Van Halen’s band because they were getting paid more… Van Halen was already in disarray as the guitarist wanted to add more pop element to their hard rock while the David Lee Roth wanted to do cover songs. Eddie got so pissed he threatened to burn the masters. In the end, Eddie worked on a melody he’d had for a while and turned it into the band's biggest hit… Jump went to #1 for a month. But this happy-go-lucky 80s hit is actually pretty dark…Almost no one realizes some have said David Lee Roth wrote the song encouraging someone to take their own life… kind of... Find out the real story next on Professor of Rock.
Thank you to this Episodes Sponsor, Zenni
GET ZENNI Glasses HERE: imp.i279709.net/vn5gLd
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Executive Producer
Brandon Fugal
Honorary Producers
Kelly Moan, Curtis Stoddard, Brutally Goofy Buddha, Paul Duenas, Cheran L Allsup, Jerry Greuel, Chuck Lewis, and Shawn Standbridge
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check out my Hand Picked Selection Below
Professor's Store
- Van Halen OU812 Vinyl Album amzn.to/3tLsII2
- The 80s Collection amzn.to/3mAekOq
- 100 Best Selling Albums amzn.to/3h3qZX9
- Ultimate History of 80s Teen Movie amzn.to/3ifjdKQ
- 80s to 90s VHS Video Cover Art amzn.to/2QXzmIX
- Totally Awesome 80s A Lexicon amzn.to/3h4ilrk
- Best In Ear Headphones (I Use These Every Day) amzn.to/2ZcTlIl
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check Out The Professor of Rock Merch Store -bit.ly/ProfessorMerch
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check Out Patron Benefits
bit.ly/ProfessorofRockVIPFan
Help out the Channel by purchasing your albums through our links! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.
Click here for Premium Content: bit.ly/SignUpForPremiumContent
bit.ly/Facebook_Professor_of_...
bit.ly/Instagram_Professor_of...
#classicrock #80smusic #vinylstory #vanhalen
Hey Music Junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and songs of all time, make sure to Subscribe below to be a part of a community dedicated to the timeless music of the rock era Don’t miss exclusive interviews and stories of the greatest music ever. And look us up on Patreon to be a part of curating the rock era.
Van Halen was busy working on their upcoming blockbuster album 1984 in early ’83 when they were offered one of the 3 headliner slots for a new music festival to be held over Memorial Day weekend in San Bernardino California, just east of Los Angeles.
The offer to headline was lucrative, and the look was huge. The US Festival was conceived to be one of the largest music festivals in history, with a projected attendance of 500K people.
The other two headliners were to be David Bowie and The Clash. The US Festival did, in fact, have a massive audience of just over 400K, but it turned out to be infamous for losing over $10 million for the creators, which included Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak.
The US Festival was also notorious for the hostility & resentment it caused to the relationships between some of the performers. Most contentious was the rift between Van Halen and The Clash.
The Clash were incensed because they discovered, on-site at the festival, that they were being paid only half of what Van Halen was getting. Van Halen received $1.5 million- which was then a record for the biggest payout for a single performance by any artist.
David Bowie, reportedly, also received $1.5 million, and that is the main reason Van Halen got the same amount, since they had a clause in their contract that they were to be paid no less than any other act playing at the US Festival.
The Clash were apparently OK with Bowie getting paid that kind of cash, but they called Van Halen “hamburger music.” I love the Clash and have always looked up to Joe Strummer as one the greatest forces in rock ever. But they were dead wrong in their assessment of the titans of rock. Apparently, Joe Strummer & David Lee Roth got into a full-on shouting match backstage. How unbelievable would that have been to witness? Yes, please.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: Who is your pick for the most charismatic frontman in rock history?

[@catherine6653]

Michael Hutchence

[@christineml1476]

INXS' Michael Hutchence

[@DC8091]

Ronnie Van Zandt Elvis Cash Bowie

[@Whisper_292]

DLR Paul Stanley

[@bookrisingisclosed]

Hands down ... Freddy Mercury

[@Meditech509]

Dave jumping doing the splits. The epitome of youth and feeling indestructible. I miss it so much.

[@Marketsolo]

He was sure sexy as heck!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

It was a beacon of the 80s. We need that!

[@RBS_]

....and, I think I'm still paying for it, trying to re-do those damn splits, back in '84!! ...OUCH! ....ha-HAAA!!

[@scubasteve3032]

Same.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

@@ProfessorofRock Well, didn't Mick Jagger dance at his concerts.... at over 80?

[@TracyParks]

"I'll wait" is a wholly underrated song off of 1984 which further demonstrated Eddie's talent on the keys.

[@ALTERNATIVEMIXTAPES]

Seriously. My favorite track on the album. I can't believe that song wasn't a massive single.

[@shawnriffhard]

Michael MacDonald's biggest seller!

[@BigB932]

Drop dead legs too

[@mikepalmer2219]

I love the drums on that song.

[@j_freed]

Serious groove, and the guitar solo is better than Clapton in forever many years. I'd say this song, Cradle Will Rock and Jump were career highlights for keyboard.

[@rickster4455]

The sublime joy on Eddie's face after both solos speaks volumes.

[@randymarthins3473]

That smile is "How did THAT look? Convincing?"

[@rickmossop3733]

I saw them playing in a smaller Canadian city on something like a Tuesday or Wednesday night later on in their career. Eddie looked like there was no place he would rather be than on that small stage in that city in the middle of the week. He had that great big smile on his face the whole time.

[@sc100ott]

I credit Van Halen for taking hard rock from a state that was overly serious, and making it fun. It was refreshing to see a band that wasn’t brooding, frowning, dark or angry on stage. EVH picking some of the most challenging guitar lines with that big old grin on his face like it was effortless was a big change to the more serious vibe of the waning 70’s (which was so effectively spoofed in Spinal Tap).

[@JamminClemmons]

**sc100ott,** - Bon Jovi was also a big part of the, "Smile-all-the-time," stage persona. I never bought a single Bon Jovi recording as I was busy with Frank Zappa music, Led Zeppelin, King Crimson, Skynyrd, Bob Seeger (never purchased anything from KISS), J. Giles Band was a favorite, Ted Nugent, Black Sabbath (with and without OZZY), Alice Cooper survived the dreaded 1990's grunge-era, Metallica, Iron Maiden....my list can go for quite some time...LOL - Keep Rockin'!!

[@trynsurviven2440]

I’m still amazed at how awesome the music was back then. So many bands grew in leaps and bounds. I feel so fortunate to have been there to witness it all unfold on MTV.

[@ProfessorofRock]

It was great time to be alive!

[@Fiona2254]

Me too!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

MTV made these bands soar with hits.

[@Christian-ew4eg]

I'm hearin' ya . I was only 10 when it was released , yet it is still spun on a regular basis .

[@user-xe3np1ud4z]

Ironically MTV is what killed music. It became image over talent

[@josi4251]

Eddie was a musical genius, and we were lucky to have him. Amazing talent!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Favorite song by the band?

[@juliehughes1258]

@@ProfessorofRock Ain't Talkin 'Bout Love, by far. MY favorite Eddie guitar riff. Hey Hey Hey! Eddie on guitar reminds me of Johnny (F--kin') Marr on guitar. And The Edge has a very unique sound, too, but I don't like him personally because of his entitled mission to ruin the view of the mountain crest in Malibu with his plans for a 5-building compound there. So glad that idea was finally shut down by the California Supreme Court. Sorry, I digress. What was the question again?

[@leetroy3129]

Ain’t Talkin About Love and Little Dreamer are my favorite songs by VH.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Still not over his passing.

[@Timelord2001]

@@ProfessorofRock This one, "Jump!" ... But my favorite into to one of his videos is the "Yankee Rose" convenience store sequence. 😉

[@ALTERNATIVEMIXTAPES]

Van Halen was my first favorite band and will always be rotating around in my top 5. A piece of me died with Eddie in 2020. Absolute genius and musical pioneer.

[@flux6162]

My first favorite, too. The cutest boy in my school let me listen to Jump and it was sealed. Decades later, I don't remember the boys name, but I can sing along to any Van Halen tune.

[@christinedelman887]

Same here, on both counts! They are tied for me as #1 all time favorite band with the Eagles!

[@robertgrant3844]

Eddie was not just a musical genius, he was the rock music genius of his generation. Blessed with innate unequaled music theory, innovative lightening fast guitar technique, and great showmanship, no one else came near him.

[@mikepalmer2219]

Are you saying he was the only music genius at the time?

[@mechanic6682]

Watch his solo from that concert. Then watch Rik Emmett's solo. Tell me if you still feel that way.

[@MegaSnakegirl]

He made it look so easy.

[@kelleychilton2524]

If I'm not mistaken, they had to develop a new technique to write sheet music to reflect the way EVH played guitar. How many musicians can make that claim?

[@kelleychilton2524]

@@mikepalmer2219 Did anyone say that he was the ONLY musical genius? They invented a new method to write sheet music because of the way EVH played guitar. How many guitarists, or musicians in general, can make that claim? Put that in your rolling paper and smoke it, mikey.

[@PozerAdultRacingTeam]

Eddie was the man no matter what instrument he was playing. The whole album is a classic. Not a bad song to be found.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I miss Eddie so much.

[@chuckhalen9543]

Having written jump a few years before it appeared on 1984, just goes to show the hindsight and ideology of a true musician we saw in EVH. Absolute icon and the same can be said for Alex as well. Music was their ENTIRE life so it would be a natural process to know a hit, way before it became a hit. Ed wrote, "Right Now" in 1983 and look at the monster that song became. I think of a musician like Elton John and couldn't imagine the hits he wrote that were years before they ever made it to tape. Musician are just a different breed of people. I can say this, we were ALL fortunate to live in a time on planet earth's history that coexisted with Edward Van Halen. Modern Mozart without question. A mad scientist, an inventor, and a seeker of tones that totally changed the face of music. Great video today, Professor.

[@noncomplacent]

easy,dude. It's just a guitar riff.

[@thehouseofcm]

​@@noncomplacentNo it's not, it's unforgettable.

[@keithmarlowe5569]

I agree with you, except Elton John didn't write a lot of his songs. At least not totally. A lot of songs were not written by the singer who made it famous. Like a Virgin was written by a man.

[@thehouseofcm]

@@keithmarlowe5569 It's Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

[@billvoss979]

You said it totally true Ed & al we're not from this planet I like that you brought up Al because no one ever talks about him was those drums who gripped you just like the guitar al is one of the greatest of all time those drums just gripped you man he needs to be talked about more

[@StevenPMacKay]

It is never about any one instrument. It's always about the music. Knowing this is why one of the greatest guitar players of all time can still hook you in even with a keyboard riff .

[@NailgunDeath]

Truth is Eddie wanted to transform the band with an emphasis on radio friendly singles, and that's what he did starting with 1984. The band's sound changed dramatically and deliberately with 1984.

[@jaakpotts]

Jump is a paradox-it’s completely soothing AND pumps you up at the same time. A phenomenal and inspired song for the ages 🎹🎸

[@ProfessorofRock]

For sure. What's your fave era of VH?

[@jaakpotts]

@@ProfessorofRock it’s the 1984 era. Music was so incredibly inspired and diverse. Each band building on what someone else was doing, but still able to make it new and exciting ❤️

[@coinraker6497]

@@jaakpotts Yup, and Steven Spielberg made a great choice using it to kick off his movie "Ready Player One".

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Haha, I always get so alert by this song.

[@noncomplacent]

you just like the makeup and tights. You stare at the buldges.

[@jerryoxley1827]

VH made their mark because Eddie was persistent. The fight with the Clash was a distraction, but it never stopped Dave from being...well, Dave. The entire album was a huge turning point in rock history. I'm grateful you shared this and so many other Van Halen memories.

[@minxbade]

Something to note. The first single from the album Women and Children First was the keyboard-driven "And the Cradle Will Rock". Eddie Van Halen's keyboard song was done with a Wurlitzer 200A through a Marshall amp and using an MXR flanger.

[@perrygoround]

Jump is the best example of a perfectly crafted song. Everything on it is just another level: the synth line, the melody, the structure, the lyrics, the solos, the sound design... it is an 11 out of 10 in each category.

[@noncomplacent]

yeah, there are a lot of perfectly crafted little songs with no soul, no groove, and nothing behind them. They sure got the tone down though. Even though it's some gay-sounding disco glam rock and it looks like Sigfield and Roy on stage prancing around in makeup and tights. I'm just glad they could keep their hard-ons for each other down long enough to get the video shot.

[@charlestimmons604]

It really is a masterpiece but I can't say I ever liked it. billmcklintock did a mash up with the lyrics to jump and the music from a hank Williams 2 song. Gotta say it's not one of my favorites

[@jrskigmann1778]

Check out Rick Beato's YT channel & his video on 'Jump' in his 'What Makes This Song Great' features. Fantastic analysis breaking down all the parts & gives you greater appreciation for VH across the board.

[@zippitydoodah5693]

I remember hearing Jump for the first time. I was. Sophomore in High School and had just joined my own first band. We were all blown away. We were fans of Styx so keyboards didn't make us blink. We simply heard the a new sound from a favorite band and we couldn't get enough of it. Non-artists will always bemoan the progression of an idol's artistic endeavors.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Bands trying something new is always a plus.

[@jenniferditty2904]

I fell in love with VanHalen in 1978, at 7 years old, but 1984 was a whole other level. MTV really helped, too. When they actually played music videos, this was on several times a day. What a fun trip down memory lane, professor.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for watching Jennifer! What' s your fave track off the album?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I have seen old MTV footage on archives and this video was everywhere!

[@scotteverett8192]

My all time favorite song. Song saved my life in a lot of ways. My parents were going through a divorce and I heard this song, and I immediately felt good. The video made me happy. This song introduced me to the greatest band of all time. I could not believe how Dave was jumping around like a mad man. Even more impressive was just how Eddie Van Halen could move his fingers on both the guitar and keyboard, how did he do that? Just an amazing song. Some of the old school Van Halen folks don’t love it, change is hard. This song made me go back and discover the prior catalog and was I in for a treat. I cannot say enough about my favorite song of all time.

[@ChrisTian-rm7zm]

Eddie was not only a guitar legend, but also an extremely creative and innovative keyboard and synthesizier player.

[@sejrec56]

And a “SONGWRITER” !

[@sejrec56]

Dave’s jumping techniques really helped the song and video !!

[@billvoss979]

Ed was not from this Earth he was from the Stars

[@matthewgustafson7737]

1984 is where Van Halen turned the corner and really began to mature as a band. Abandoning covers was the best move they could have made. To this day its Eddie's true masterpiece.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree. He wanted to innovate! What's your fave VH record?

[@doctordetroit4339]

VH regressed and went pop, which is why most of the music he made afterwards doesn't have the timelessness of their 70s and early 80s albums. 1984 was a good album.....but Jump was pop crap. And covers were present on most VH albums due to Templeman KNOWING they would be hits....and they usually were.

[@karlsmith2570]

Agreed, while their covers were great songs, I could relate to Eddie's frustration with doing covers of other artists material

[@dukecraig2402]

It sucked just like Diver Down. Van Halen's first four albums are the only ones worth listening to, after that they turned into a pop act, I don't hardly see how that was "innovation", those first four albums were what they did that was truly innovative.

[@ja60123]

As an act the real wealth is holding your own publishing and copy rights. Covers can grab cash quickly as fashion goes along but a standard with its rights secured is the long term dough

[@johnathansaegal3156]

The "1984 Tour" by Van Halen was the first concert I attended as a teenager. The arena went wild when the stage was dark and the keyboard for "Jump" began, the crowd went wild even before the spotlight hit Eddie. That moment is burned into my memory all these decades later.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What an unforgettable experience.

[@moorepower7]

I saw them in St. Louis on 5150 tour and it was the same thing. Stage went dark and the very first song was Jump. Awesome show!

[@Vishiaeq]

I LOVE this song. The synth is amazing. That guitar solo....OMG. It's one of those songs that when it comes on the radio in the car, you just crank it. You have to! It's also a song that immediately takes you right back to the 80's. One of those awesome songs that has become a big part of the soundtrack of my life.

[@ray-moan-ray]

HELL YEAH! YOU HIT THE NAIL ON THE "HEAD"!

[@garymartin1040]

Love this song it reminds me of Roll with the changes by REO

[@slide8570]

Eddie was a genius. Hands down changed rock music. Played classical piano..and never knew how to read music. He just watched his teachers hands..and won piano competitions doing that. I always looked forward to hearing what he would do next. I'm enjoying his son's progress..so we have that to look forward to.

[@lorenshetler6395]

I followed this band since the eighties, Eddie couldn't read music?

[@armynurseboy]

@@lorenshetler6395 Nope. He did have a genius ear though. And he was essentially self-taught on guitar.

[@billvoss979]

The dude was a natural not from this planet

[@pappawmiked2162]

Could you imagine, getting into Eddie's 5150 studio vault and going through all of his recordings? I wouldn't doubt there are many tracks that could fill numerous albums. And to think, his musical genius would still sell millions of copies. It would be phenomenal if Wolf got it all together and put out, with the blessing of Alex, all of the music Eddie has stored......

[@RBS_]

....-PSSSSST-.... I'll pick the locks, YOU be the lookout! ...ha-HAAA!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

No joke!

[@paineintheass233]

Why would he need his uncle's blessing. He's his son. It's his. He would have to write him check but Alex couldn't stop him from re-working and releasing it.

[@nativemiami77]

Throw a bunch of it into an A.I. machine and hear what comes out.

[@fivestring65ify]

And if an album was released, His son would be the guitarist.

[@eightiesmusic1984]

Jump was one of the best songs of 1984 the most exciting year of the eighties. It sounded remarkable then and still does. The video is off the wall too- that drum kit is a humdinger.

[@doctordetroit4339]

It was pop crap but it was fun. VH made a lot of younger fans but the adults hated it.

[@RBS_]

.....and, trivia tidbit....It "jump" started the Pointer Sisters meteoric '84 rise, when they had to pull back THEIR "Jump" and rush release "Automatic"....then, they renamed it "Jump (For My Love)", and went, ba-BOOM!! .....lucky Gals.... ; )

[@ProfessorofRock]

Greatest year ever.

[@BillGraper]

@@RBS_ Interesting! There was a similar thing with "9 To 5." I don't remember the exact details offhand, but Sheena Easton's "9 To 5" was released just a few months after Dolly Parton's. Dolly's hit #1 right around the time Sheena's was coming out, and they ended up changing the title to "Morning Train (Nine To Five)" to avoid confusion.

[@doctordetroit4339]

@@RBS_ Putting the Pointer Sisters and Van Halen in the same sentence.....that proves the song was pure crap.

[@magillavanzeppelin]

I personally think that this album has always been "underrated". Songs like Jump, Hot For Teacher and Panama got all of the glory and recognition, but I'll Wait, Drop Dead Legs, Top Jimmy and Girl Gone Bad are all killer songs. And House of Pain is a great track as well.

[@jeffjones3040]

Girl Gone Bad is god damn AWESOME!!!

[@Scottocaster6668]

Girl gone Bad is my favorite off 1984. It has a more classic VH vibe.

[@MrPoncirus]

House of Pain is the most underrated song on that album. It departs sonically from the rest of the songs, but is a fantastic piece.

[@joeb6245]

Totally AGREE

[@joeb6245]

Let’s be honest. Fair Warning is the band’s greatest album. Cmon the greatest song in VH history is Sinners Swing. Every song on Fair Warning is absolutely kick ass

[@bishdizzle67]

You're a great singer Adam. I had watched some of your stuff awhile ago here in KZbin. I don't know how we all danced to this song when it came out but we loved it! Everyone JUMPED every single time Dave said Jump!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I still laugh out loud when hearing Adam sing. I always forget how GOOD he sounds on record. 😂

[@1oolabob]

Every time Dave said "jump" the other 3 guys repeated it an octave higher.

[@williambenner701]

I will never understand why Eddie using keyboards was such an issue. You can't argue with success; and 1984 was pure success!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree. Let the genius create!

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

He needed to "jump"...... and I don't mean like what the British woman did.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s 1984, the pinnacle of the 80s!

[@JYLee-rr1sy]

It's the same in every industry....something new and unfamiliar makes the old guard get defensive and scared. They also don't want to be the joke of their industry so taking a risk like that doesn't initially sound like a good idea until proven otherwise.

[@Troweliton]

Dilemmas, dilemmaz; da Human Dilemma!! Genius seems to attract detractors for sum strange reason.. "human" nature?

[@whathahk]

Love, Love 1984, every song and wore out several CD's..... Love this episode, fantastic compilation! Thank you!

[@PBeetheFox]

This song is one of the best bangers of the 80's, and perhaps all time! The guitar solo shreds, the synths soar, and the vocals bring the energy way up!

[@bobjones2041]

When Jump was played in the discos everyone took a cigarette break when the solo came on

[@KDWolf27]

One of the greatest songs I've heard to date. RIP Eddie Van Halen

[@ProfessorofRock]

He is missed.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I still miss him to this day.

[@johnnyd3155]

I was already a huge VH fan when 1984 came out during my senior year in high school. The entire album is great and I remember those times fondly with this album as the soundtrack. I can’t think of a better band to grow up to and so appreciate VH’s musical contributions, especially those of Edward Van Halen.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What’s your favorite cut off of 1984?

[@johnnyd3155]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Girl Gone Bad. What’s your’s?

[@billvoss979]

I too was a senior in high school in 1984 what was a huge fan since 1980 when I was in 8th grade the first time I seen them live hey my friend sister had the record in 1979 and we listened to her record in the basement with total amazement and wonderment it was a life-changing moment and has been ever since we will miss you so much head I got a chance to meet him in 2015 and get an autograph and picture and told him who I was introduced myself and he was such a cool dude and also Al Van Halen 2 and it was a dream come true I've waited for all my life no words could describe when I introduced myself to add it was like staring into the face of the Sun I miss those guys so much

[@billvoss979]

I used to cruise around in my 1970 Cutlass and 1984 with wild abandon and Van Halen cranking away in the tape player

[@SJUCityBoy]

Van Halen fan for over 40 years. Keyboards, who cares. Jump became their first number one hit. Great song, great album, great era. I'll Wait another monster song. Songs that defined my teenage years. Thank you, Eddie, for sticking to your guns and creating an amazing album.

[@-.Steven]

Wow! Great song! Great memories! As a 20 year old missionary in Tennessee, I bought this album in some music store in Nashville, January 1984. I don't know why, I didn't have a record player, but I was about to come home so I must have thought I needed it, or would be needing it soon. I still have that vinyl. It's just a classic album cover too, a little cherub with a pack of smokes 🚬 I saw an interview with Eddie and he was asked the question, if you could jam with any musician, alive or passed away, who would that be. The amazing musician Eddie answered, without hesitation, My Father. On 7-01-2023 at the stadium of fire, after Journey put on an INCREDIBLE show, a team of skydivers landed on the field as the Van Halen song Jump was being played, and the skydivers had flames shooting out of their boot heals. Simply super-freakin' Amazing! And the dancing girls were on the field dancing and prancing around to the song as the skydivers came down, clearing off as they came in for a landing, all with Jump playing!

[@livdamnit6998]

Van Halen was of course my favorite band in 1984. The best year in Rock history. I had a crush on both Eddie and Valerie Bertnelli and when they got together I was over the moon for them.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They were so adorable.

[@adrianachavaje908]

I also loved them and was CRUSHED when they split

[@fallandbounce]

When it came out, the synth was something many of us hoped he'd get out of his system. This is the album where we knew the original band was done, even if they hadn't split yet. The spirit had moved on.

[@theunsweetkarmaway]

I am with you there. I was 21 when this album came out. I had gone through my formative years with Van Halen. The raw, bluesy, animalistic sound that had driven me on some of my best nights was watered down with the synth.

[@colbyclayton8052]

And The Cradle Will Rock is keyboards. Did you know the band was over then?

[@theunsweetkarmaway]

@@colbyclayton8052 The keyboard added texture to the intro, and I, like the Adam, thought it was a guitar riff--my friends and I used to air guitar to it back in high school. It isn't the hero of the song. In "Jump" the keyboard is the hero, and the song sounds too much like Styx. Well, not exactly like Styx but like if Dennis DeYoung produced the song and insisted on jamming with the band.

[@joeb6245]

Agreed 100%. I was 17 when 1984 came out. I remember my friends and I listened to everything but Jump and I’ll wait. Great songs of course but we were praying it was just a phase.

[@guitarhole]

This song has grown on me since 84. I hated it and "I'll Wait". I'll Wait is now my favorite track from the album. There is a live version with Sammy Hagar singing Jump that made me appreciate the song. If you haven't heard it, I highly recommend it.

[@J1W5M7]

Jump blew me away when it came out along with the entire album. Eddie was beyond genius. If he wanted to play a bassoon in a song let him. The song would probably go quadruple platinum. His work in later albums with Sammy prove he had a sound like no other. I hate talking about him in past tense.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree. He was a GENIUS!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He could play just about anything!

[@overthehilldill3626]

Let's all just agree that we agree that EVH was by far the greatest that will ever be.

[@BeemWeeks]

The synthesizer in Van Halen music was a shock when that album first dropped. But 1984 is all killer and no filler. Those first six Van Halen albums are perfect.

[@rodzilla4rilla]

Early 1985. Made love to this and 38 years later we are still together. What a track😎

[@TheToso13]

Yet another great presentation, thank you. Growing up and graduating in 1986, overtime becoming a huge fan of stringed instruments, yes, huge Van Halen fan. I’m sure I’m not the only person that was disappointed in the keyboard error, I especially hate the parts of the video where you can hear the keyboard being played yet he’s playing his guitar as well. In the end, doesn’t matter, love and miss Eddie Van Halen so much, feel blessed actually got to see him play at one point in time….

[@RC32Smiths01]

Absolutely a classic, and it showed Van Halen's way of adapting from their pure hard rock style to something more akin to the 80s. It's very interesting to understand how a song can be pretty intense disguised by an upbeat melody. Cheers as always.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks RC32! What if your favorite era of VH?

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's amazing. Came out in the best year in music history!

[@RC32Smiths01]

@@ProfessorofRock Gotta be their hard rock era. I think that was where everyone as a band shined the strongest, but the Hagar era also put out such great music!

[@warrennicholl1382]

​@@RC32Smiths01Agree

[@warrennicholl1382]

​@@ProfessorofRockThe Sammy Hagar years...was never a DLR fan

[@paulthompson6284]

I really started paying attention to this song years after it was originally released, and I really do have to say: those 24 bars that make up those two solos just undeniably demonstrate what a total legend Van Halen actually was. The way that the harmony goes through all those variations, and the cymbal accents before it closes with the sustained cymbal roll... it doesn't get much better than that! 😎👍🤩🤩🤘🎸🎸🔊🔊🥁🥁

[@llangberg]

This is THE BEST explanation of the true meaning of the song "Jump" that I've seen or heard ANYWHERE. This resolves the question in my mind that, no, even though the idea for the song was partly inspired by a threatened suicide, that is NOT what the song is about. Kudos to you, Professor of Rock Adam Reader!

[@heyjarrod]

I was in eighth grade, school was letting out and I had just jumped into the backseat of my friend’s brother’s car with my buddy. His big brother had just started side one of the new album. Those opening chords of 1984, then leading right into jump, was the greatest thing I had ever heard. I was squished in the back of this little pinto station wagon, lowered, tinted windows. Couldn’t see anything, in broad daylight. I could’ve been on the moon or the bottom of the ocean. It was like a dream. And almost 40 years later, I can remember that moment like it was yesterday.

[@qhazwel]

I first got the chills hearing the opening sustained distorted keyboard note. I remember that being a truly memorable time for me.

[@markuhler2664]

When Jump came out out my friends and I were blown away with the synth sound, the fact that Van Halen had done it but also how awesome it was. Everybody learned just how fantastic a musician Eddie was as we learned his background.

[@rollingthunder9579]

Jump for me symbolises the great year, particularly the summer, I had in 1984. It just evokes images of upbeat sun- drenched good vibes. It also stands out for me because it's a pop synthesiser lick with a rock rythm section (no drum machines, just incredible traditional driving drums , booming bass and muted guitar, great musicianship) and curiously nobody mentions how progressive the instrumental central section is, musically unusual for a supposedly poppy commercial mid-eighties tune. The ultimate pop- rock track, it's fully rock and fullly pop at the same time. The conflict between The Clash and VH partly reflects in my view a culture clash ( no pun intended) between the US and Britain at the time. The Brits were often suspicious of the kind of bombastic showbiz approach VH epitomised, associating it with supposedly self-indulgent, vacuous, money-obsessed attitudes ( hence the " not for sale" banner) .Let's not forget the Cure had finished their stint at a Dutch festival the previous year shouting:" F**k rock and roll!" .Whereas VH members actually smiled continually! How often did you see the Clash smile?!!? I guess Van Halen couldn't understand why you'd want to be in a rock band if it wasn't to enjoy yourself and enjoy success!! Thankfully we can enjoy both approaches through the music. Curiously, there was a similar, though not so acrimonious, supposed rivalry, mostly press-fuelled, at the Castle Donington Festival in Britain in 83 when VH and ACDC played. Angus Young described VH as " more pop" than ACDC and David Lee Roth said words to the effect that Eddie was superior to Angus. In the end both bands just got on with their performances, no fisticuffs or anything.

[@andrewk7745]

Love your video. In 1984 the Chicago Cubs used the song Jump for that season’s theme song. They would play it everytime they would go into and come back from commercial breaks. I don’t really even care to watch baseball games but I loved watching the Cubs just so I could hear that song. That is what inspired me to play guitar. Yup, a keyboard prominent song, lol. It was the backing guitar chugging that supported the keyboard that blew me away. I grabbed the sears catalog from the bookshelf and would stare at the pictures of guitars. I finally got a guitar years later and ended up playing in bands. I met many friends, my ex wife, and built countless memories that will last forever all because of that song. Ever time I hear Jump I think about how it changed my life 😊.

[@wmvaux]

It's a shame there weren't more keyboard / piano songs as Eddie was just phenomenal. I bet there are a stack of gems in the archives.

[@viperone1000]

The Mighty Van Halen!! There will be no other!!! RIP Edward...you are so missed! He's the only guitarist on my wall right next to Neil Peart.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Indeed.

[@popsequentialism7213]

Great episode! I had been a pretty big Van Halen fan going back to their performance on Donny & Marie Osmond (where they performed Feel Your Love Tonight). I was already a huge Kiss fan, and when I read somewhere that Gene Simmons had produced the first VH demo, I was all in. I of course remember the skepticism of rock radio djs when it was first reported that Eddie was experimenting with keys on the forthcoming 1984 album, but having already experienced Rush's incredible use of keyboards on Moving Pictures and then Subdivisions, I never understood what the big deal was. And then hearing the opening keyboard intro on 1984 leading into "Jump" there was no doubt that Eddie had elevated the band to another level. I had to rebuild the cassette from wearing it out. It was also kind of great that girls my age also seemed to be fans. I was 13 when the record was released and just on the cusp of dating and it was pretty cool that Van Halen had helped usher in the radio-friendly, hard-rock Golden Age. The birth of what would become the Sunset Strip hair metal scene may truly originate with the success of 1984 (for better or worse), but it added a social respectability to being heavy metal fan in those crucial junior high school hallways and lunch tables.

[@Tele-gram-Mr_ProfessorOfrock]

☝️✍️✍️✍️

[@standingalone001]

Thank you Adam Reader. You produce one of the absolute best shows on KZbin continually.

[@susanpumphrey354]

My son's basketball team always warmed up to this song, and he just graduated in 2019. LOL. Such a classic! I remember jumping on the trampoline with this playing on the boombox. One time my sister and I (unprompted) both did a split jump at the same time. We felt SO COOL. 😂😂😂

[@LazyIRanch]

You and your sister ARE cool! I've never been able to do the splits. What a perfect song to pump up the basketball team!⛹‍♂🏀

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I always liked to jump to the chorus as well.

[@bbb462cid]

Professor, it's rare to see somebody pointing out the divergent visions for VH in the Roth heyday. Changes were coming no matter who the signer was post-1984. Eddie want to explore, Roth wanted to dance. Imagine being a fly on the wall for those fights! Happy July 4th!

[@ProfessorofRock]

I know. They need to make a biopic. It would be hilarious. What's your favorite versions of VH?

[@bbb462cid]

@@ProfessorofRock Hard to say. They became different bands to me. I like them all but the first album with Hagar was something else again. So unlike what I expected and I still loved it!

[@juliehughes1258]

Happy 4th of July! When living in dry counties, you had to buy a 5th on the 3rd for the 4th.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

There should be a book written about this!

[@timothypaulat9764]

Which is funny when you look at what happened when they split, with Van Halen finding a style and sticking with it, and Dave experimenting with so many different styles and sounds in hi solo work.

[@davefordavefor]

Another great video, Adam. Jump really is a terrific song. I’ve never been a big Van Halen fan but I can admit to genius when I see or hear it. Thanks for giving the background about Eddie’s classical piano training. And, I love how the song really means something to you.

[@CrAck-MoNey]

So I was born in 1980. I personally call it the MTV Generation, or the Simpsons Generation. Anyway I remember when my household first got MTV I was hooked. I specifically remember Jump, Thriller, and Smokin' In the Boys Room. Of course there were so many but those were the first videos that left a mark in my memory. To this day I listen to all that music by Van Halen, Michael Jackson, and Motley Crue...maybe put Poison in there too. To this day I'm still a huge consumer of music, and music videos. I'm so happy for this channel being on KZbin, and Adam I'm so happy you are getting recognized for your hard work. Love the interviews, and insight into some of the best music on the planet!

[@zachfarrell234]

I was 14 when "1984" came out and I remember thinking two things: Jump is going to be massive BUT the metalheads will be furious. Turns out everyone loved it. That was a great time in hard rock history... Shout at the Devil, Pyromania, Metal Health, and 1984 all came out at around the same time. That year I was in the 8th grade and all that stuff was HUGE all year long. Every day, first thing in the morning, I'd draw a huge Van Halen logo on the chalk board in class. Such great memories!

[@torcer]

We must have had similar music tastes as teenagers lol. 1984 happened to be a great time for ALL music, the charts from 1984 are amazing, many of the songs are still in heavy rotation!

[@tomcartwright7134]

Eddie Van Halen designed some of his own pickups and other pieces of equipment for effects. Genius and truly great guitarist.

[@williamskogen9895]

Jump is one of my favorite songs of all time.....but I can't be the only one wondering just how a Van Halen cover of In the Midnight Hour would have sounded.

[@tommyturner6064]

Thanks for this. My favorite VH song. Cranked this song daily back in the day. Still crank whenever it comes up on Sirius or Spotify. In my early 60's and still ready to JUMP.

[@upholdthesecond92]

One of my favorite albums. RIP Eddie. You are truly an amazing musician.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

One of the greatest.

[@57WillysCJ]

As you so eloquently pointed out, that synth song pushed them to the next level and ultimately put Eddie in the bands driver's seat where he belongs. I think Diamond Dave was cool but not as important as he thought he was, which is according to Sammy Hagar who has reached out to him multiple time, but Dave blows him off.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Yeah, Dave was obnoxious for sure. But he had a lot of energy that no one can deny!

[@ErnestStevenson-bo3nk]

Back in 1984 I was a freshman in high school which had a very prolific basketball program including many state championships and one national championship. For the starters during warm ups at home games we were afforded the opportunity to be announced and come out to the song of our choice. I knew instantly that I wanted Jump. I was the only freshman to start so I was last to choose a song. I was absolutely thrilled when no one else chose Jump and it was mine. The song became so popular that I ended up being the last to be called out. 😂 Great memories! Thank you for taking me back to that incredible time in my life. Also, that entire 1984 album was fantastic!

[@dpjacobs28]

Exaltation….had to look that up! Not only entertaining, but learning new words at the same time!….kudos POR

[@flavellinator]

To remain contemporary in the 80s, I recall many performers placing keys/synth at or near the forefront of their music production, such as... Pat Benatar, Journey, Heart, and Van Halen of course... I liked the diversity and depth that was added by it... Good show and Happy 4th, PoR!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Happy 4th my friend! Any big plans?

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

On a remix for "Don't Stop Believin'", you can hear a portion where the distinctively 80s sounding synth are prominent but also the bluesy guitar melodies in another part of the mix. It all works well on the song as a whole, in remixed form or not.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Even the 60s and 70s bands did it.

[@internettroll7604]

I was on a track team in 1984. We would continually practice the high jump to the song Jump by Van Halen. Miss those days.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great times. The music of the 80s made it better! thanks for sharing.

[@RBS_]

....I'M still in PAIN! ....Damn, that Diamond Dave! ....ha-HAAA!!

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

@@RBS_ Did he challenge you to do those spits on TikTok? Hee Hee. You can't just up and do those. This reminds me of a friend whose dad had gotten into Disco and tried to do a split and injured himself to my friend's delight.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’d do the same thing.

[@douglasjacobson676]

I remember Iike it was yesterday my sister, me and our Mom and Step Dad (both were young parents) watching MTV's "Friday Night Video Fights" with VJ Martha Quinn. Van Halen with"Jump" was winning week after week. It was March of '84 and I was turning 8 that month and I got the "Jump" single and that record was by far the coolest present I got that birthday. What a time to be young ...... EVERYTHING was better back then ! Great video as always, your the BEST !

[@IronHorsey3]

Saw both the Clash on their first US visit and Van Halen in 81. The Clash played at a NYC club called "Bonds" which infamously closed down their first night due to overcrowding. A HS friend was big on them. I loved the song, "London Calling." We were pressed right up near the stage on the third night. Van Halen at MSG for the very first time on their "Fair Warning Tour." Through friends we got scalped tix, fifth row in front of the stage. The most amazing concert of my life. Eddie Van Halen did not disappoint. The entire show was almost like a celebration of their rise to the top. They opened with "Fire" and were on fire. Among my friends, some were already musicians and we were all blown away. As for the synth, it was a crossover success with "Jump" but preferred the catchy "I'll Wait" by far. May Eddie RIP and God's mercy on his soul. A true musician through and through.

[@darrenmeadows1798]

How ironic that the Grammy competition that year featured 2 of the all around greatest musical talents in the era of rock music - EVH and Prince. Both were capable of playing any instrument they touched at the highest level. I would have loved to hear an EVH/Prince guitar collaboration.

[@bobjose5855]

As a hard rock / heavy metal fan, 1984 was a bit of a shock to the system and it did seem soft. At first listen my friends and I were saying, "what is this?" but it grew on us rather quickly. It was more popish than we were expecting, but it still rocked and the amazing EVH fretwork was there as were DLR's outrageous vocals. We came around pretty quickly to love it, but it did change our view of the band.

[@topJimmyP1984]

Same here!

[@ssnerd583]

I remember the firs time I heard JUMP....was driving south on 169 In Tulsa on a beautiful day, windows down, sunroof open....just got out of school for the day....the DJ announced a brand new track from VF.....turned it up all the way and ROCKED OUT..... Those were the BEST DAYS of my life.....w0w....

[@reginamckinney6469]

Funny how a "synthesizer" album had some of the nastiest guitar tone, riffs, and solos ever on a VH record... the guitar work on House Of Pain alone is a lifetime of guitar lessons! EVH was a gift, a true musician.

[@elwyndude]

It is also worth mentioning Alexs drumming during the solos, its incredible on its own and certainly not "stock". Sidenote: In the US festival, they play a live version of Secrets and its awesome.

[@timothyslaughter476]

I agree Alex just kept getting better and better and was as integral to the the band as much as anyone. The thing that makes bands such as vh soooo great is as amazing as the individual members are....it's the band part that takes it places they never would have imagined. Thank goodness for the brother bond because that group had issues, but it would always survive because of that. Not the case with all bands with siblings.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Often wondered if this was a song that sort of encouraged taking one's life. The lyric "might as well jump" does seem to convey hopelessness. Thanks for this deep tidbit Professor. Oh yeah, the Matrix lost again. 😅 Have a great 4th everybody!

[@ProfessorofRock]

You're first! Great job. Have a great 4th my friend.

[@LazyIRanch]

@@ProfessorofRock I had never heard about the UK DJ who played this song during a suicide attempt, now I'm wondering if that inspired part of the storyline for "The Fisher King" (one of my favorite movies, starring Robin Williams in one of his most heart-wrenching performances). It was directed by Terry Gilliam, and IMO, it's one of his best. Jeff Bridges costars as a washed-up, suicidal shock-jock DJ who had been at the top of his game until his insensitive on-air comments inadvertently prompt a mentally unstable caller to commit a mass murder-suicide at a Manhattan restaurant. He becomes an extremely depressed alcoholic, and loses his job, friends, and lifestyle. One night, while on a bender, he contemplates suicide. However, he is attacked and nearly set on fire by thugs who mistake him for a homeless person. He is rescued by Parry, a delusional homeless man who claims his mission is to find the Holy Grail. Parry, of course, is played by Robin Williams to perfection. It's one of a few movies I recommend anyone to watch, especially anyone who's experienced a life-altering tragedy and struggled with depression afterwards. In spite of the gloomy subject matter, it's also very funny and life-affirming. Just make sure you have a full box of Kleenex nearby, and don't watch with anyone you wouldn't want to see your "ugly cry".

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

The song itself does not encourage that kind of jumping. Had not VH made that song, the DJ probably would have played The Pointer Sisters' song by that title, hee hee. I remember changing all the words to "Bye Bye Bye" so sound "psycho" and singing them for Karaoke..... This was before I heard Sublime's "Sancho" song.

[@bobdavis4848]

@@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398 Fortunately, I don't think anyone misinterpreted The Pointer Sisters' "Jump (For My Love)" to mean "kill yourself for my love."

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s the sad part about it. People may have used this song to justify taking a life.

[@f4lloutgaymer]

You have a great Swing singing voice, Adam. 😎🥃 Thank you for sharing a bit of your singing talents with us. And. yeah, Van Halen '1984' is what introduced me to the group. Phenomenal group. I love both Van Halen and "Van Hagar". 😎🎸🤘

[@Zippy-I-O]

When the opening Synth riff of "Jump" is magnified by Diamond Dave's martial arts kick the crowds were sent into the cosmos EVERY SINGLE TIME. 1984 is one of my favorite Albums of all time and this Tour is the only tour of all the bands seen travelled for throughout the country to experience 5 times. GOSH...Loved the Cover for the Sinatra-Style Big Band creation. TALENT GALORE!

[@DerekScottBland]

I remember the MTV special when Sammy joined, and how Eddie talked about Dave constantly saying "you're a guitar hero, no one wants to see your dead ass playing keyboard." It's amazing that Dave couldn't grasp the popularity of the song and that this was a new direction for the band while keeping their party image.

[@fivestring65ify]

True, but now, Dave talks about how Eddie was right, and he was wrong. He gives the song the proper accolades now.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I believe he turned back on that statement a few years later.

[@ponzo1967]

Its difficult to describe seeing Van Halen live in the early 80's . Bands are not allowed to play that loud now for one thing. My ears rang for three days straight which is why they don't play that loud anymore but it was an overwhelming experience but a beautiful thing because of Van Halens raw talent.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Nowadays all you hear is the crowd cheering because the band isn’t playing loud enough! I wanna go back to the 80s.

[@marktait2371]

Yeh twd first concert iattended with derek aerosmith 70s van halen 82 86 probably the highest volume borh shows 82 we were in first few rows michael anthony looking back probably to loud but our local venue was not good for bands was a hockey and basketball.arena

[@marktait2371]

Today your better iff going to a small theatre last week.andy summers was here seated no annoying cell.phones same garbage seated was here monday seated theatre type venue where you can hear the band clearly i havent been to.but my nephew has big arena showa fine for die hards but not the same sound wise

[@ponzo1967]

@@marktait2371 I don't go to big arenas anymore for a lot of reasons but those were the only places to see Van Halen in the 80's. It was the 1984 tour and Eddie, Michael, and Alex all played solos. It was also on the 4th of July so fireworks were literally exploding everywhere,.it was absolutely insane but a memorable experience, I was 16 at the time. Later in 1990 my home city of Indianapolis converted two movie theaters into concert venues. Not only did I and other local bands get to perform there but I saw some of the best national groups play at those places. The last show I saw was Tesla at a smaller venue and it was excellent, they did an acoustic set in the middle of the show and the sound quality was great.

[@mikepalmer2219]

I had no idea you had a band and could sing like that. I am highly impressed. We need to hear more of that.

[@kaydeim]

I have two brothers, one younger and one older. By the time this album was coming out, we were all Van Halen fanatics. The day we heard that a new VH single was to be released and played at a certain time by a local station, an appointment was set. As the moment approached, my younger brother, one of our sisters, a young niece, our mom, and I huddled around the stereo in my brother’s room. We didn’t realize it at the time, but the station played 1984 and Jump back to back and when the synthesizer kicked in with the opening notes of 1984, our faces contorted a bit trying to rectify the sound we were hearing with our VH expectations. I remember that by the conclusion of Jump, I was completely torn. This WAS NOT the Van Halen I knew and had come to love, but I also kinda liked it. In very short order; however, we all three were loving this new adventurous sound and song. In the right environment, I still get goosebumps when I hear those synthesizer chords. 1# on my all-time favorite song list and always will be.

[@5boysmomma]

EVH was a great guitar player and keyboard player. I think if musicians were able to allow some if not all of their visions to be seen and heard instead of other people making those decisions about what we want to hear that there would be so much more iconic music.

[@KevyNova]

Eddie was a fan of The Who, which probably inspired him to add synths after seeing them have huge hits with “Baba O’Riley”, “Won’t Get Fooled Again”, “Who Are You”, etc…

[@kerzwhile]

I'm So proud that you actually named the exact right Synth used! 😉

[@kaydavis382]

You can do anything you set your mind to (you know you can)...that's the into of this song. It's bolstered me through every tough situation in my life. My life's theme song. It's given me so much courage. It kept me working toward my goals. Thank you Eddie, Alex, Michael and Dave.

[@Meditech509]

Happy 4th everybody. Take just a minute to remember the sacrifice of our forefathers to found our nation of America.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Amen.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I certainly will.

[@MaverickGrabber71]

The 1984 album is when I discovered Van Halen at 11 years of age. It was unbelievable. I "Jumped" on board as a fan. 😏 Jump, Panama, Hot For Teacher.. it's fantastic from start to finish!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Panama is my jam!

[@MaverickGrabber71]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 had to read twice, because my brain combined panama and jam and read pajamas. 😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@MaverickGrabber71 Pajanama! 🎶

[@Journeyman.71]

I was 12 years old when this song came out! It went a long way to establishing at least part of personal musical identity! And yes, it is still part of the catalog of music on my phone, PC, etc.! On random play, and it coming up, always brings a smile!

[@ALTERNATIVEMIXTAPES]

You can probably create an entire sub channel discussing Van Halen with all their history. Another great video. Thanks brother.

[@lewiscrow]

Mixed emotions...I liked Jump, but I also felt VH had watered down their sound. Eddie's guitar was never as prominent again as it was on the earlier albums. It didn't turn me against the band...I understand artists grow and change. I just preferred the volcanic sound of the previous albums. Que sera, sera.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Interesting take! What are your best and worst of the record?

[@lewiscrow]

@@ProfessorofRock Panama probably reminded me the most of what I considered the "VH sound." As for worst...probably Hot for Teacher, not for the music, but the lyrical content.

[@jomojojo6603]

You have to admire the Clash's feat to punch THAT far up.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Ha ha! NO joke. You a fan of the Clash?

[@jomojojo6603]

@@ProfessorofRock not a big one. But to punch that far up takes guts.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

@@ProfessorofRock Who doesn't like "Rock The Casbah"? When you mentioned a punk rock band, I thought the song in question was going to be that one.

[@juliehughes1258]

@@ProfessorofRock I love The Clash and especially Joe Strummer and his combat boots! They are so much more than Rock the Casbah. Give me Train in Vain, London Calling, I Fought the Law, Should I Stay or Should I Go, Complete Control.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I know!

[@carlacook5181]

In 1884 my family drove from Cincinnati to Chattanooga to vacation and visit ffamily, when we stopped in Knoxville for fuel and a break, our two year old found a brick wall and was jumping off the wall while singing Jump, might as well jump, I asked him where he heard that song and he said MTV, I yelled mTV. Y’all ( him and our five year old)y’all know you’re not allowed to watch MTV when we got back hom , I watched the video and loved it and the song, I still didn’t want my children to watch MTV but thought this video was great, now my babies are in their forties and can watch and listen to what they want, my oldest loves m6 fifties and sixties vinyl collection ( wirh a few seventies thrown in, the youngest likes songs that would make George Harrison proud, he loves chanting, sitar bells, etc. he still loves 1984 and I would occasionally hear Jump coming through the house when I’d visit, Eddie Van Halen was an amazing musician and had insight into what the band neededto make it big, he is and will be missed for years and generations to come. 22:22 K

[@chuckhutton5087]

Great episode as usual from the Prof. The only exception is the declaration that “ Jump” is the best intro for sporting events. I think it was Alan Parsons Project and the instrumental “ Sirius”. Used by many teams from various sports but most notably the Chicago Bulls during and since the Michael Jordan era.

[@petercena9497]

Fair Warning was not a huge seller so Eddie had a point. DLR was guilty of bad taste. The irony of Eddie's decision was that the US festival brought American hard rock/metal back to the mainstream. Quiet Riot deserves as much credit as anyone. The Clash achieved platinum status then fired Mick Jones. Worse decision in rock history? One of the worst definitely.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Peter where do you get all your knowledge?

[@petercena9497]

@@ProfessorofRock I've been a fan of Rock history since the 70s, and remember a lot of it. And much like you Professor I didn't lose interest at a certain age.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It definitely killed their career..

[@scharlesworth93]

The drummer falling apart from his heroin addiction didn’t help either

[@seanminifie4474]

This was the point where Eddie showed that he was maturing,as was his music. DLR refusal to grow up was exactly why he was gone. And it also explains why Sammy became the replacement. I love this song.

[@ceciliajones7816]

Explain what they then did to Sammy AND Mike.

[@seanminifie4474]

@ceciliajones7816 they got old and miserable. Just like Tyler and perry, and many other wore out rock stars. Hell most marriages barely last 10 years.

[@ceciliajones7816]

@@seanminifie4474and todays artist fight with each other all the time and very little new music has any heart. They also weren’t old when they broke up in ‘85. In their 30s..

[@seanminifie4474]

@ceciliajones7816 you miss what I'm saying. DLR refused to grow up and Eddie got sick of it .I'm sure you must have an old acquaintance like this that you don't associate with anymore. As for Sammy and Mike, well I don't think Eddie's illness was doing his brain any favors.

[@ceciliajones7816]

@@seanminifie4474 neither Eddie nor Dave were doing well in maturity. Eddie was an alcoholic and cheated constantly on Valerie, remember. Eddie’s alcoholism played a heavy role in the split. It’s a horrible disease that destroys relationship and health

[@supergrovah2729]

When the greatest rock guitarist brought synth into the game, the game changed. Period. We're all the much better for what he did......

[@mikemahon9936]

You as usual are spot on, but forget the amazing Bass, and unreal Drumming in the song. I remember everything you talk about. Living in Lake Arrowhead Ca at the time. we rode BMX bikes down highway 18 on day 1, and could hear the festival from 1/2 way down. we spent the whole day there listening with all kinds of people who could not get tickets. going the next 2 days and sneaking in to see all the bands. Being a VH fan I always laughed at the people that dissed this album. It was like Punk Rock kids mad that their Sister liked a band they did. Stupidity at it's highest. If you like a band you like a band. The incredible music they put out in all the different Members over the years was an inspiration. I could never judge such talent. Dave made the mistake of trying to hold EVH back. He should have listened to his "roll with the punches to get to what's rea" Nothing he did on his own ever came close to what VH did after. Love all they ever did. RIP EVH

[@doctordetroit4339]

Van Halen was a 70s band. EVH knew they had to go "pop" in the 80s, certainly after MTV came on scene. Everyone likes to compare DLR vs Sammy.....the real split came with Diver Down and most certainly 1984 and "Jump". 5150 was not the break of the band.....1984 was. When "Jump" came on the radio, VH lost a LOT of cred from older 70s fans. DJs even made fun of it while playing it. I was there. But it took off with the teens and girls, and was an obvious success. Even with synths. But Jump destroyed VH as we knew it back then.

[@petercena9497]

Rock fans hate when their favorite bands top 40 hit becomes their biggest. It didn't kill VH as bad as "The Locomotion" destroyed Grand Funk.

[@conrad4667]

You are absolutely correct.

[@doctordetroit4339]

@@petercena9497 But it still killed them....dead is dead. And then VH fans complain about Van Hagar even though it was EVH who took them into this direction way before Sammy. Which I would find hilarious if they weren't so ignorant.

[@ProfessorofRock]

YOu're right. Though I still love everything that followed Diver Down. Except VH3.

[@fnjesusfreak]

@@ProfessorofRock Van Cherone just didn't have the magic that Van Roth _and_ Van Hagar had. 😜