First Time Hearing Sammy Hagar! Vocal ANALYSIS of Van Halen's "Right Now"

[@TheAcgtrs]

The look of giddiness on Elizabeth’s face, when Eddie starts his solo, perfectly encapsulates how countless numbers of musicians felt, every time Eddie played, anything… Pure joy.

[@georgestanley8837]

Well said. I remember in the days of vinyl, bringing a new VH album home and listening to it for the first time was a special event. You just knew it was going to be special.

[@tommack9395]

I wonder if she realizes Eddie played the piano tracks in this? Eddie's first instrument was the piano, though he's a great guitarist he took a lot of his piano lessons as a ten year old to the guitar. The solo starts with pinch-harmonic and is full of unison bends on top with a lot of pinched harmonic in the end... Eddie held his guitar-pick really close to the tip with his thumb and middle finger, roll them in to the palm and it chokes the pick and assures the string as it starts vibrating hits your fingertips as it's plucked (thus the harmonic).

[@ErinJWade]

Thing is, it’s Eddie on the keyboard, for better and for worse.

[@Kent-d2r]

I gotta say if you don't watch the OG video you're doing yourself and the song a disservice. And I love the commentating but nearly 26 or 27 minutes for a 5 minute song is a little lengthy. ❤

[@mcard48able]

​@@Kent-d2rI would hate to be around her trying to hear a new song. Constantly pausing and jabbering. Just listen to the whole thing first, then jabber about it.

[@zacbreeden1966]

Diamond Dave was the ultimate showman and entertainer whereas Sammy Hagar was a musician and rocker. Both nailed what they were.

[@thestanleys4157]

Thats a perfect comment.

[@erikguidotti8640]

Well said. Sammy is also a better songwriter and good at what I call "painting words with pictures." I can only think of one, maybe two real examples of Dave doing that; Mean Street' and 'Sky Scrapper from Dave's 1st full solo album.

[@strider2175]

I've always said that DLR got Van Halen worldwide recognition, and SH got them worldwide respect. They're both awesome.

[@alexo5861]

What did Gary Cherone get them?

[@juancarloshernandezgutierr9723]

Being a VH fan since 1990, this is one of the best comments about them that I’ve ever read in this whole time. Cheers pal.

[@RB-tx4mn]

​@@alexo5861Laughs?

[@armynurseboy]

​@alexo5861 unfortunately, not much. I love Gary and his work in Extreme, but in VH, it felt like he was just a placeholder.

[@josephewing80]

@@alexo5861 Forgotton?

[@Twominutedevotions]

The fact that Sammy Hagar can even still somewhat execute some of these songs in a slightly lower key at 76 is incredible.

[@mdcampbell7360]

I saw Sammy wIth Michael Anthony, Joe Satriani on guitar, & Kenny Aronoff on drums in August and there is no somewhat to it, the old fella can out rock a most guys 30 years his junior.

[@wolframreactor74]

And never underestimate the backing vocals provided by Bassist Michael Anthony. His contributions, vocally and musically, were a hidden hallmark of the Van Halen sound

[@wyattblackwood3927]

Michael Anthony's voice was just as instrumental in the sound of Van Halen as Eddie's guitar.

[@jmazoso]

Love love love Michael Anthony and his backing vocal,a but Eddie gets left out, he's doing background vocals too. The combination is integral to the VH sound.

[@wyattblackwood3927]

@@jmazoso Absolutely !!

[@stoneysopranoyukon9398]

Yes ! Someone said it, thank you 🤘❤️🇨🇦

[@JT-py7ze]

Don't forget the underrated Alex on percussion, doesn't get enough love ❤

[@MatthewGClarke]

EVH was a really accomplished pianist/keyboard player and Sammy being a great guitarist too allowed them to explore a lot more musically than when DLR was there. It's not for everyone, but you can't deny the songwriting and musicianship!

[@cydrych]

I love DLR Van Halen, I love SH solo and with Montrose but I absolutely can not stand VH with SH. But I agree that there is no denying the talent from everyone involved. I wish they had let SH play more leads in VH, I much prefer his playing to EVH.

[@dancallahan4183]

Ed said that Sammy was able to talk to him - and reign him in - on a musical level that Dave couldn't. To be fair, that may have been the post 1984 "Dave sucks" period for Ed, but it would make sense that having a singer with musicianship on the guitar would help Ed put some limiters on himself and only go full blast when needed, and not on every song like he was doing up to that point. One thing Sam always pointed out - even when they hated each other - was just how underrated of a rhythm guitar player Ed was and how surprised he was he didn't lean into that more prior to 5150

[@markbryan2287]

I'm definitely an 80s guy so of course I couldn't stand Van Hagar on principle. But I couldn't hold out long. They are fantastic either way. I have to admit adding the Red Rocker allowed them to grow so much musically.

[@John-n6e6z]

We miss Edward

[@KevyNova]

Dave played guitar on more Van Halen songs than Sammy did. Dave also played keyboards and harmonica on Van Halen songs. I really don’t know where the whole misconception of Sammy being a musician and Dave not being one came from.

[@ronnieparfait]

“Dreams” should be the top choice to check out, Sammy sounds incredible and he’s admitted that it’s the highest song he’s ever sung…thanks for finally settling the debate that Sammy is the better singer..😁 PS: you’re so close with the guitar solo it’s called “pinch harmonics”. 🤘🏼✌🏼

[@steved100]

My choice, too! (other than Running with the Devil isolated vocals 😎)

[@brovold72]

Same positive message. Less subtle but exhilarating.

[@rushaholic]

Dreams has the greatest "YEAH" in rock!!

[@matthewkupetz]

Dreams👍.....or Summer Nights....5150 was a great album, too hard too choose!

[@dalesteiner2380]

right and sometimes called a "pick squeal' I prefer pinch harmonic

[@denisehart-mosman]

Sammy Hagar is at the top of my list for favorite musicians of all time. I’ve been listening to him since I was a teenager in the early 80s. Not only a great singer, but a great songwriter and guitarist. And most of all incredible front man and entertainer. Words cannot express how much I adore that man, from his work in Montrose, to his solo work, to his work in Van Halen. One of the true gems of the rock genre.

[@MyLifEcademy-sr4hy]

Agree wholeheartedly!

[@josephtreadlightly5686]

My best memories of Sammy is when he was in the group HASA with Neil Schon & Aaronson & Shrieve. It was the time in their life when they finally found out that they had the most freedom to pursue interests. It would have been monumental if they could have just given it 5 yrs or so. 😍 that album with the dual song of Giza & the Temple 🛕!

[@MainPrism]

🤘🙌🔥💯

[@cindya9572]

Don't forget, that's Eddie on the keyboards as well as lead guitar. Eddie's guitar playing was so phenomenal people tend to forget he was a multi instrumentalist.

[@Hun_Uinaq]

You should check out his son. Wolfie is pretty awesome himself. Multi instrumentalist like his old man. Phenomenal on that guitar.

[@cindya9572]

@@Hun_Uinaq True, and he has a great voice as well.

[@jeffhenigarprisonchap2287]

Yeppers. Classically trained pianist, both he and Alex IIRC. Ridiculous musicians, the both of them. Absolutely amazing.

[@nattymo7835]

Concert pianist-level ability and guitar god. Truly, a unique talent. Too bad the ego and demon alcohol had such a strong hold on him.

[@jeffhenigarprisonchap2287]

100% on point@@nattymo7835

[@amyhon2000]

OK, I have to say this....while I like David Lee Roth's era, I LOVE Sammy Hagar's era of Van Halen. There is something about his voice that just crawls right up my spine and gives me chills...I feel the songs from this era in a more emotional place and love it!

[@Rock_Snob]

Eddie VH said he was no longer limited in his writing with Sammy…he could sing with no limits!

[@Tracy-b9u]

Same!!!

[@markvanderstelt8999]

as much as i like this i will take the original band all day the first Album blows anything out of the water that van Hagar ever put out.

[@Tracy-b9u]

@@markvanderstelt8999 It is interesting isn't it how polarizing this band can be, Van Roth or Van Hagar? LOL I think, while people have their favorite side, all can agree Van Halen is/was a phenomenal band! ✌

[@TheRockinDonkey]

@@markvanderstelt8999 As much as I like Van Halen, I will take the first Montrose album over anything any era of Van Halen did

[@ThePoorBoy]

I'm a drummer who once worked at a Trader Joe's in Los Angeles that Eddie used to shop at. During one particularly slow afternoon, he came through my line. I couldn't believe that he was standing right in front of me in the flesh. I had been a huge VH fan for most of my life, and he was so incredibly nice and open-hearted to me. I told him that the F*CK album was my first rock album and that I used to play drums along to it trying to figure out what his brother was doing. But I also told him that it ended up making him my favorite guitarist. He loved the story and, after I handed his groceries off to him, he shook my hand (he had quite a strong handshake!) and told me that he was in a really good place. This was just a couple weeks before their two back-to-back shows at the Bowl, which would end up being their last shows ever. A friend of mine had a couple tickets to the first night and invited me to go. They were glorious, especially Eddie (you can find his solo segment from that night on KZbin). I saw him once or twice more at Trader Joe's, and he was always smiling. I'm so grateful that I had that experience with him and then got to see him and the boys at the Bowl. I miss him. There will never be anyone like him ever again...

[@torontojoek]

Pretty crazy how strong his hands mustve been after 50+ years of bending strings, hammering-on and fast picking!

[@inbutnotoftheworld2237]

Hear, hear!! What a cool story!!!!!😯😍🎵🤗💕

[@ThePoorBoy]

@@torontojoek Yeah, I didn't really put it together until a bit later that his guitar playing was probably a big part of that strong handshake! (It took me awhile to come back down from the high of meeting him!) I think he enjoyed working with his hands in building things too (the Frankenstrat being the most famous example!). I seem to recall that he did a lot of the construction on 5150 Studios himself. He's obviously one of the most famous rock stars in history, but there was also something very "blue-collar" and "working man" about him. I have some other "Eddie in LA" stories from other people I know that maybe I'll come back and share at a later time, but the recurring theme is that he was nice to everyone.

[@michaeltammaro482]

He was a beautiful human being, with a LOT of stories similar to yours but then you hear the J.O.'s OUT THERE that NEVER met the Man and they bad mouth him and Alex. SMH.

[@joe-zj8js]

Cool story. I got to see them with DLR on their first tour in the mid/ late 2000s at the pond in anaheim. Wish they would have kept michael anthony... great show.

[@ChrisBrooksGuitar]

You'd love Sammy's vocals on "When It's Love". He uses all the registers masterfully.

[@lvhatrick]

Sammy is one of the greatest rock singers of all time. He has a huge catalog of music from Montrose, to his stellar solo career, to Van Harlan, to Chickenfoot, to HSAS. I’m so happy you finally discovered him.

[@darknes7800]

Sammy singlehandedly save VH. They were aimless after Dave left and Sammy brought new life into the band, which actually is a SuperGroup!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@philf4086]

In my opinion, Sammy is more of a "vocalist" than was DLR. DLR was a showman.

[@LKtube1]

That's plain fact.

[@Mysterios0]

@@philf4086I don’t even think Dave is a better showman than Sammy. He’s just different. Sammy is the obviously superior vocalist, of course.

[@GDaddyTx]

Sammy is at his best when he’s on stage. He draws his fans in and makes it’s personal…. Great showman. I’ve seen him perform with Montrose, as a solo and with VH. Even in Cabo, always a great show. He’s grown at every stage. 🤘🤘🤘

[@bigham1jb]

Michael Anthony's backing vocals really helped make the Vav Halen sound we all love.

[@Scott__C]

Too bad Ed did him wrong.

[@bdm1000]

I heard Eddie disparage Michael Anthony's voice and base playing somewhere recently. He said he had to tell him how to play every note. When Eddie also said Michael's backing vocals always sounded the same, I wondered why he didn't tell him how to harmonize differently note for note as he claimed to interject into his bass playing. Eddie Van Halen was a wonderful musician, but unfortunately fame and praise often changes people for the worse, and he certainly betrayed Michael Anthony later on in my opinion (Just as Motley Crue betrayed Mick Mars). Personally, I do see Eddie's point about the monotony of the Van Halen backup vocals, but I also think it helped form the band's signature sound.

[@dancallahan4183]

@@bdm1000 He said that he actually played the bass lines and Mike videotaped him to learn them. Sam was doing an interview when he first heard that and it's about the only time I've ever seen the guy truly pissed off and just said "F you Eddie... you're a liar" As for the background vocals - that was the entire sound of background vocals for almost any 80's band, and the harmonics really helped create the overall sound of the band Here's the video of Sam being pissed off - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5XRd62IramSfZo

[@michaelhillmann3460]

Michael always had the high pitched vocals and screaming in both Van Halen’s and sang a few songs live when Gary Cherone was the lead singer

[@John-n6e6z]

Fo sure

[@KevyNova]

18:42 RIGHT HERE is the reason why Eddie Van Halen will always be remembered. He was so much more than just a shredder. His tone, technique, note choices and overall musicality it what sets him apart. You don’t have to be a guitarist to respond to his playing like this.

[@jonw8694]

Agreed, and to answer the question posed at 19:50 ...yes, those are pinch harmonics Eddie is playing at the beginning of the solo.

[@Quillfighter75]

although it certainly helps, that ascending run he did after those unison bends is great, the pinch harmonics leading into the solo wow

[@KevyNova]

@@jonw8694 yup!

[@raymo6795]

been 3 years now, I still get a tear...RIP EVH

[@67jdvann]

🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐

[@GregHildman-kr1ui]

Seriously... The Hagar years are when the band got deeper. Musically, lyrically, etc. Thank you for your reactions. It's refreshing to see appreciation for Van Hagar

[@leekarr4909]

Sammy's voice is still so damn good! I saw him live last year, just before his 75th birthday and was blown away by the notes he's still hitting! ❤️🎶

[@christianwilliamson9752]

He is a legend

[@chrisoakley5830]

At his age, he is still a tremendous singer, he can still do it very well, something that many of his contemporaries can't say.

[@BlueTransAm83]

Yea that's why I want to see her do a good live version of them. But yea fully agree

[@pammiracle69]

I saw him live around the same time at Harrah's in Cherokee, NC. It was an awesome show.

[@brentj.peterson6070]

He's lived a life 🔥

[@paulrose4735]

Hagar is a talented, controlled, masterful singer, and he is ALL heart. Sammy and this song have gotten me through some really dark times and Right Now is inspirational, powerful and truth. It would be wonderful to get to tell Sammy that some time. I don't think I have ever felt as a grateful to an artist for existing!

[@dgr212]

Her observation and reaction to Eddie’s solo almost made me cry. I bet Eddie is smiling on the other side knowing he can touch the soul of the critical ear of a classically trained musician like he did the regular people like me.

[@brentj.peterson6070]

Great reply ❤

[@SmithandWesson22A]

Did make me drop a tear or two

[@jamesyoung7560]

@@SmithandWesson22A It ALWAYS makes me cry. I was never a "huge" EVH fan but he totally won me over with this solo.

[@dealstalker]

Me too!!! I cried!!! I could hardly wait for her to hear his voice! OMG now I’m crying again.🥲🤣

[@steverenison3375]

Thought the exact same thing❤

[@robertbaron1293]

Really fun listening to a classically trained singer break down rock singers and illustrate just how talented these people really are.

[@TheTruth-pl3mk]

This song, for me, is the best thing from the Sammy Hagar era of the band. I also liked "Dreams", "Why Can't This Be Love" and "Poundcake", to name a few. Generally, I'm a Roth era fan of Van Halen, but there's no doubt that Sammy was (and still is) a world-class Rock singer. Always gives 100% and holds nothing back.

[@jarlnieminen4307]

I feel like he managed to summon a little Roth to pound cake.

[@mariek6993]

sammy brought a professionalism to van halen, a maturity that dave didn't... sadly dave could have but didn't. dave had no "right now" or "when it's love" in him. Dave had the voice too but sadly that's gone as well...

[@TheTruth-pl3mk]

@@mariek6993 I can agree with some of that; for me, if we're comparing them directly I'd say that Hagar is by far the better vocalist; Dave was the better frontman overall. He was a showman and had a rapport with the audience that Sammy never did, no matter how well he sang. Dave could tell jokes or ramble between songs and the crowd wouldn't turn against him. Not many frontmen could get away with forgetting the lyrics to his own songs! Roth could. More than that, I just preferred the songs that Van Halen wrote as a band when Roth was there. Those first 6 albums had several classics on each and were consistently-strong listens.

[@kbooboo88]

Dreams is amazing. I have read interviews where Sammy has challenged her Dave to sing it when Van Halen reunited with Dave. It’s sad to see how Dave was more of a spoken singer since he’s lost his edge. Sammy has maintained his.

[@jeffc8965]

All good suggestions, but for me 5150 is my first choice from the 'Van Hagar' era.

[@jdbroders64]

They were two different bands. Sammy allowed Eddie to pursue different creative directions in his songwriting and playing in particular utilizing much more keyboards which Dave didn't like. In addition to Sammy's amazing voice, he is a top tier guitarist is his own right, a great lyricist, and a prolific songwriter. They really complimented and pushed each other very well. One last tidbit about Eddie. Long before he picked up the guitar he was an accomplished classically trained pianist. In fact, if I remember right he won a few piano competitions and he stated in his biography that he couldn't read music and would play Bach, Beethoven etc. entirely by ear and memory. Think about that. Then he decides to pick up the guitar and becomes one the greatest (if not the greatest) rock guitarist ever and changed what the guitar was capable of forever. Truly amazing. RIP Eddie. You are missed but will never be forgotten.

[@subhashxrecord3131]

Ya I said this recently; Eddie was just having fun for the initial four record run; When the early 80s dawned his natural talent as a pianist began to evolve on Keys and synth; By the time 1984 dropped alot of guitar players were becoming aware of the standard he had set: VH switched his gear and comfortably extended his career and discography with Sammy and a new production era 5150;

[@KokoTheGorilla69]

Sammy Hagar "a great lyricist" 😂😂😂 He ruined many Van Hagar songs with his cheese ball/lazy lyrics, which ultimately led him to getting kicked out by Eddie and Al.

[@subhashxrecord3131]

@@KokoTheGorilla69 Nonsense; Dreams, Cabo Wabo, Right Now ; Gold Lyricist. Sammy Rocks

[@mikeb.7183]

@@KokoTheGorilla69 I might not call him great but I will say they were grown up lyrics as opposed to DLR's cheese ball high school skats. Sam also allowed things like melody and counter melodies to be explored. Love those first six records that is the Van Halen of my youth, but the records they did with Sam, Well that was the Van Halen that had grown up and matured just like I had at the same time.

[@MacPro8CoreMan]

Sammy is a Pop lyricist. DLR is a ROCK lyricist. Sammy writes about feelings and love, and he’s good at it. DLR writes about partying and having fun, as well as the drama of youth. Van Halen grew from 1978 as a groundbreaking Hard Rock band to 1984 where they stood at the top of the mountain as the greatest Hard Rock band in the world. Van Hagar came from Eddie’s shift in song composition toward Pop with keyboards. Over 4 albums they became much more radio friendly, moving from light play on Rock stations, to heavy play on Pop stations, then finally falling off to Adult Contemporary stations. I believe Van Hagar was a great Pop band. The original band still gets heavy rotation on the Rock, and Classic Rock stations 46 years later. Both are great bands, but I much prefer the original… I like to Rock! You should do Ice Cream Man (studio version) next.

[@dleatherman4539]

Great analysis as always. Pretty sure Sammy would be up for a Tea Time episode. He is super friendly and rarely gets a chance to talk the art of about singing.

[@Fishin4funout4trout]

^^^^^^^^THIS^^^^^^^^@thecharismaticvoice I'll bet Sammy would do tea time with you. You would love him, and probably vice/versa. Please give his people a call.

[@bullainsworth3130]

Absolutely! That would be quite a treat. People love Sammy! Such a cool down to earth dude!

[@angiewagner1893]

PLEASE have Sammy on! ♥️♥️♥️ him!

[@dseitsinger]

That would be great. Just do it...Right Now.

[@VitorPVTB]

C'MON! Let's make this happen! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@TheOnyx3821]

DLR was a front man at the time. Great Voice, great antics. Sammy was an actual musician the same caliber of EVH. As an agreement in the band, he sang and played some guitar, but agreed to NOT play lead guitar to help EVH stay in front. Totally worked, and brought the band better music.

[@XAMS]

"Dreams" is really Sammy's best vocal performance and his best Van Halen song. There needs to be a reaction of "Dreams".

[@Scaramousche1955]

I'd say it was In and Out

[@SamRoy-t3e]

Dreams. 100% Live without a net shows he can do it live.

[@cbrippee]

About 5 years ago I saw Sammy and his great band The Circle at the Rose in Huber Heights (Dayton) OH. Probably the best concert I have seen at this venue. However Sammy mentioned that Dreams was in the top 2 of his favorite songs throughout his entire life's work.

[@ridemoto03]

I second this!

[@CV91722]

​@@cbrippee I was at that show as well. One of the best concerts I've seen to date.

[@Rich_G22]

Remember Sammy was close to 50 yrs old when this was recorded. He just turned 76 and still has amazing pipes. From Montrose, to his solo career to Van Halen and more recently Chicken Foot and The circle. He never disappoints. Must be all that Tequila he consumes. 😂

[@danmcconnell5941]

Well 44 years old at least. The song is 32 years old by now!

[@Rich_G22]

@@danmcconnell5941 I didn’t have a calculator and I didn’t remember the year the album was released. 😂😂

[@GlenFoster]

I really love me some Chickenfoot.

[@joeb2]

Always been a huge fan of Hagar. He can still sing very well for being 76 years old, it really is amazing. I met him a decade ago when he was with Chickenfoot (another outstanding band) and he is exactly the guy you hear in interviews. Super chill and down to earth.

[@kevinflynn4519]

I remember Sammy kicking ass like 50 years ago when the 1st Montrose album came out..he was killer even back then

[@fatguyoutdoors3511]

Yes I recommend Chickenfoot as weĺl

[@charleskandrut7022]

Met him on the Ten13 tour..so down to earth!

[@trenken]

Sammy is an absolute monster rock singer. And even in his 70s he can still wail, doesnt sound much different than he did in his 40s. Pretty amazing and rare. His voice isnt aging the same way most others do.

[@basher5107]

Auto tune I wish he still had the pipes but he doesn’t,he’s lucky he can get out of bed in the morning!

[@derekmellino8316]

Love to see Sammy get the love. Hes easily in my top 5 singers and still belts it out at 76 years old.

[@marcboltres7651]

Sammy was for sure a definate breath of fresh air for the band. It seems like they were all having a great time making those songs. 5150 and OU812 were both great from start to finish. Every song. Eddy's guitar work just got better with each record. No one can say enough about his guitar playing. And his piano/keyboard work, although very unexpected from the virtuoso guitar player he was, was pretty darn good also. Sammy came in and helped them make their best music by far.

[@tapsX3]

Totally agree.

[@iopian]

Heard the song hundreds of time but I still get goose-bumps when Eddie tears into the lead after the pause and build up. Brilliant phrasing.

[@BibleSongs]

Same. Shivers.

[@sweetwilliam5150]

Never gets old. Its the gift he left us with.

[@lawrenceriley1526]

You can hear Ed's smile in every guitar solo... almost like he's as surprised with every note, like I am.

[@Khammett1962]

Man I love Michael Anthony's playing on this one. Underrated bass lines

[@83169]

MA was always a great bass player, and if you want some serious evidence, track down the Zero Demos. They were produced by Gene Simmons, and whatever you think of his own music (mostly yech), he's an excellent producer. Ted Templeton forced MA to play straight eights on everything, something SH put a stop to, when he joined the band. Templeman got a better vocal sound out of DLR, but everybody else sounded better with Simmons at the mixing desk.

[@ferox965]

​@83169 as a bassist myself. Simmons is underrated. Dirty, gritty with more than a touch of Motown influence. Nothing wrong with his playing at all.

[@msoileau83]

I will submit this as one of my favorite VH basslines.

[@Gerald.Hinson]

Agree. He killed it on this song.

[@bpschmidt4707]

One of the rare occasions where the official video version is the way to go. This song was on the radio and MTV 24/7 when it came out. And yes, the message is still relevant today!

[@liberalgunowner]

Ya if she watched the video she would really understand , it about the homeless crisis in LA even in the way back it was a real problem

[@leonardodic3po607]

That guitar solo is a masterpiece. Usually it's the emotion of the vocals that hits me the hardest, but in this song you can't help but weep in awe of Eddy's playing. What a loss!

[@scottpepmiller115]

The long fade is one of my favorite parts. It pulls you along, and presents sort of an "epic" feel to the song. Like an unstoppable force.

[@greendragonpublishing]

I am sad you didn't watch the official video with this. It's powerful, and adds layers and depth to the words.

[@Mertaranta]

IIRC, the video was not available officially for some time until two months ago they released a remastered version of it on their KZbin channel. I remember searching for it around Eddie's death and was surprised there was no good quality version available.

[@kronos6948]

And then they sold the rights to Pepsi to use it in their commercials. I don't begrudge anyone for making money, but I think it tarnished the message a bit.

[@spydude38]

One of the best concerts I attended was a Sammy Hagar concert on his "Three Lock Box" tour. The man played for three hours straight and never missed a beat. Whether performing in Montrose to his solo career as the "Red Rocker" to Van Hagar, Sammy is great.

[@longboardmed]

Get on your bad motor scooter and ride my friend.

[@larrybenson902]

Sammy is simply awesome - I've been blessed to see him over 70 times live. Also met him in person on several occasions, he is so nice to his fans. Just an awesome person.

[@PorkinsTheWhite]

The look on your face when Ed's solo hits was the same I had when I first heard this sole. Needless to say thirty years later and I'm still a fan.

[@73cgreene]

I can't overstate how much I love this song. It's hard as hell to play on the piano, and Sammy's powerful voice is impossible to sing along to. But it's riveting, inspirational, deep, wide, and never gets old. I can listen to it daily and never grow tired of it. Thank you for the reaction and analysis! A new take on an old favorite. Edit - you may enjoy "5150". It's possibly the best showcase of the power behind Sammy's voice, when he hits the high note towards the end, it's mind-blowing. And the fact that he could do that night after night on tour is even more amazing.

[@benburnett8109]

This IS NOT HARD to play on piano. In fact, this was one of the FIRST songs my son was taught in his music classes. This was picked because it was popular AND IT IS VERY EASY TO PLAY ON PIANO. Ed said the best songs were e-a-s-y and p-o-p-ular.

[@michaelarms5936]

Yes, I was thinking 5150 too. Perfect for her purpose (and maybe my favorite with Sammy, both guitar and vocals.) I said maybe, I love all VH.😊

[@benburnett8109]

They tuned down a full step during that tour. For that song. A full step below Ed's "kinda in tune but I'm in tune with the band" which was acutally 9 cents below 440. Just sayin. AND again. THIS SONG IS NOT "HARD AS HELL" TO PLAY ON PIANO. You know she's married? So simping for her won't get you anything but ridicule from Men. And a lack of respect from her. Furthermore, Sammy has stated MANY MANY MANY MANY MANY MANY TIMES THAT "dreams" was the hardest to sing for him. You really are bad at simping. And bad at Van Halen. AND probably bad in bed. Just sayin.

[@homesteadjeff1419]

This song was a driving force in the start a new business. My wife and I were in a difficult position and were tossing around the idea of starting a olive oil production company. Wrote a quick business plan on a cocktail napkin in the bar just an hour before seeing Sammy and VH live. This song was a "sign" for us to just go ahead - don't wait for tomorrow. We looked at each other during the live performance and just knew it was right. Amazing where inspiration comes from. Don't hesitate on pursuing your dreams!

[@nrschwartzie]

The drums in this song are epic how they add so much depth to the overall song.

[@67jdvann]

Alex always gets overlooked

[@allkindsofthings1497]

Yes and they stepped up the drum sound from this album forward. Alex is heard more clearly.

[@KennethSavage-nn2vv]

AVH is so underrated painfully so

[@sweetwilliam5150]

Al is a BEAST.

[@jasonevanslee7606]

Yes powerful is the word. Van Halen with Hagar is totally inspirational. Instruments, vocals, writing...it speaks to your soul. A group of very talented musicians who cared about their work. And of course, there's Eddie's phenomenal guitar magic. RIP Eddie. Great post.

[@nicksterwixter]

I love how quickly you picked up on the fact that Van Halen with Diamond Dave and Van Halen with Sammy Hagar are essentially two different bands. It's only one member different, but a combination of Eddy's desire to experiment musically and Sammy's totally different voice and worldview from Dave completely changed almost everything about their sound. So cool to hear your analysis!

[@mikecoughlin4128]

I think Sammy being able to play guitar helped free up Eddie at times too.

[@chrisggoodwin777]

Eddie's use of pinch harmonics, bends, and the trem arm was absolutely otherworldly, especially for the time. I equally loved Van Halen and Van Hagar. Saw them at Ava in 2005, absolutely fantastic show 😁🤘

[@geraldhartley]

LOVE that you finally gave Sammy some recognition. He gets bashed a lot from the die-hard VH fan base, but he's a killer vocalist and carried the band forward with great success! I saw both versions of the band, first in 1980, and then later in 1988. Very different frontmen, but both equally impressive.

[@boostgoober7262]

The only actual "singer" VH had

[@89801wink]

Agreed. The old school VH fans hack on Sammy for what "he" did to VH's sound. This is the direction Ed wanted to go. More keyboards, etc which is one of many reasons Diamond Dave exited. Dave wanted to just keep dancing with what brung 'em. And we all know that the Van Halen boys got their way...always. Having been a big VH fan from when I first saw them open for AC/DC in '78, I love both versions of VH.

[@HariSeldon913]

@@89801wink Exactly. If Sammy had gotten any kind of say he might have stuck around longer. Eddie was ok with doing a few of Sammy's big hits in the live shows, but Sammy was kept clear of playing any instrument on any of Eddie's songs. Sammy also didn't (and still doesn't) have an off switch for his songwriting, so he had a bunch of material which Eddie not only wouldn't allow VH to record, but also told Sammy "no solo albums if you're in this group," giving Sammy no outlet for his music.

[@armynurseboy]

​@boostgoober7262 Gary had pipes, too.

[@lvhatrick]

Gary Cherone is a great singer.

[@josephtreadlightly5686]

Michael Anthony is a great vocalist that filled the gaps that David Lee Roth couldn't bring to the band & he filled that gap & when Sammy joined the group he continued to bring it. He was also the voice of reason later on to not blemish the group & their legacy by doing things late in their career that would only blemish their career. I really understand & appreciate Michael Anthony & his integrity to their legacy.

[@westjt17]

Most people talk over guitar solos or skip them entirely.. makes me so happy to see that someone appreciates all the little details that we guitarists try to inject into a song hoping that someone will notice lol Eddie was great at that. Only one of him. Very cool you picked up on his little mannerisms as opposed to most people who only hear the speed..

[@bryanmcneil9872]

The things she hears and understands the first time through a song is incredible.

[@tonyboyer28]

The things she hears and understands are general knowledge. I don't know why anyone gives a shit about her opinion. It's like fingernails on a chalkboard listening to her review. Do you really need this woman to tell you that Sammy is the best VH vocalist?

[@TheNitelite10]

I might not be the first to recommend this, but before I do, I got to give props to Elizabeth's giddy passion over the small things that are undoubtedly missed by most who do enjoy VH's or in fact just rock and metal in general. She picks up on things that open up brand new avenues of understanding and respect for what these bands have produced. Who would have thought that I would develop a greater appreciation for the music that I grew up with from a classically trained student and teacher of great music? So my suggestion is for people/students who not only enjoy the rock/metal genre, but are also looking to one day being able to make their own music; they should seek out teachers like (though there may not be that many just like Elizabeth- she is one of a kind in her passion and appreciation) to learn about the appreciation for the little things that make music from yesterday great. ❤❤❤ just a thought

[@ericekstrom7389]

I met Sammy Hagar at the Oxnard , California airport. He was so down to earth ,humble , gracious ,funny and hung out with my best friend,my girlfriend & me for about 35 or 40 minutes !!! Offered us free tickets(we already had tickets ) so when we told him to give them to others without tickets he took our names down and said because of our actions that we'd be on the backstage list !!! How awesome is that !!!! Took pictures with us and we bid eachother farewell.... Also briefly met Alex Van Halen but he had his wife and a newborn baby. Sammy put Van Halen into another level , musically speaking !!! Love the early stuff with David Lee Roth but the 3 albums Sammy did with Van Halen were awesome!!! Sammy with Montrose (Rock Candy & Bad Motor Scooter which was the 1st song Sammy ever wrote) was great but you need to check out his solo work!!! The whole Standing Hampton album is awesome especially Where Eagles Fly !!! Also the song "Red" since he is known as the "Red Rocker" would be a great analysis video as well !!!!

[@RolfStumpfRailMedia]

This is one of my VH favorites. The intro is sublime and then it all turns into a display of pure musical power.

[@littmus32ify]

Van Halen grew up when Sammy joined. From party rock to possibly the best rock n roll band. And that’s the brilliance Sammy gave to the band with his sense of melody and songwriting. Guitar solo: bitch bends are really sliding up and down the neck in addition rapid pentatonic runs across all strings from upper to lower register. These bends or slides keeps each section of the solo together to create continuity, and that’s what makes it brilliant. Love your reaction!

[@_Common_Logic_]

I think you mean a cliche' mainstream, movie soundtrack band. ;-) As for Eddie adding continuity with his styling, it could be said that he did it to a greater extent in the old days when the songs (like Atomic Punk) were far more disjointed and less melodic than the Hagar years.

[@warrenyoung7503]

Eddie was so bloody brilliant it’s mind blowing. Chills on the solo

[@brettwelcome4842]

He didn't really do that until the 1984 album. Jump is the first song that I can think of where he tracked multiple solos and cut between them. Most of the leads even on that album were linear takes. I hate that Roth mentioned that Ed did that, when it was something he did a couple of times, and now everybody thinks that's how he primarily recorded. Now, George Lynch did quite a lot of that. I think Vito Bratta did too, or maybe that's just how he would compose his leads, then learn them, then record them. But EVH was as much of a one-take guy as you'd ever see. Especially on the first few albums - very few punch-ins, and very few overdub tracks.

[@brettwelcome4842]

Stay mad? Who is mad? It sounds like you are just an argumentative guy with an attitude problem. I have absolutely no issue with writing solos in the studio. Brian May and George Lynch are two of my favorite guitar players. Steve Vai also. (And I've spent a fair share of time in the studio myself). May, Lynch, and Vai are all masters of composing guitar solos by piecing together multiple takes. There's nothing wrong with that. But that being said, that wasn't Ed's standard operating procedure. If you listen to isolated tracks, or even album tracks with really good headphones, you can tell when Ed's leads were one take, and when they were spliced. And the fact is, almost all of Ed's leads on the first 6 albums are whole takes. Jump is an exception, not the norm. Now, if he started doing that more later, I don't know, because I didn't really study as much of his placing from 5150 on. But he didn't do it much at all in the original lineup, and almost NEVER when recording at Sunset Sound. If you disagree, please point out to me a song that predates the 5150 studio where Ed clearly spliced his lead... A@HC-sb1ru

[@HardEdge53]

Sammy Hagar was lead singer for Montrose back in the 70’s. Good Rockin’ Tonight, Rock Candy, Bad Motor Scooter all worth a listen

[@lawdog25]

Something awesome about Sammy is that at 76 years old he still has his singing voice! He can still pull off his older music without de-tuning the band and it still has all the same energy!

[@vitman4414]

You said it. He also still has the energy to run around like a madman. Truly one of the greatest musicians to hit the stage. The only other thing I will add is he doesn't get the credit of being a real good guitar player also.

[@seanj3667]

They're still rocking it. Sammy just performed this on Howard Stern with Michael Anthony on bass, Joe Satriani on guitar and Jason Bonham on drums. They KILLED!

[@dtaylor77]

@@seanj3667 And touring next year

[@seanj3667]

@@dtaylor77 I heard he also invited Dave and Alex to join him if they want. Even as a one-off show, that would be great.

[@timedwards9153]

💯 can't wait for next year's vs van Halen tribute tour with Anthony, Hagar and Satriani

[@stephenriggs8177]

This melody had been bouncing around in Eddie's head, for years, but he just couldn't think of a way to make it mesh with the DLR vibe. It wasn't until Sammy took the microphone that Eddie felt the freedom to hammer it out.

[@jonmiller3153]

Sammy said he said he was writing lyrics for what became lyrics for this song separate from Eddie. He was shocked Eddie & him were working on the same song.

[@TheRimeOfTheAncientMariner]

Sammy is such a good guy too. Just exudes positive vibes. You'll see it right away if you watch any shows or interviews with him. And he's still out there in his 70s just killing it 👍

[@GSARGENTOUTDOORS]

Sammy Hagar was my first rock concert. I was 12 and it was 1984. At that time, Van Halen was my favorite band (DLR as front man) and Sammy was my favorite solo artist. I've followed him for years, seen him a handful of times and listened to him often. His voice stands out.... it always has. Even as an 11-12 year old, the first time I heard him, I was awed. I'll see him on tour this summer! Great review. Keep it up.

[@spamwagon]

Sammy's solo tours were just epic. Standing Hampton, Three Lock Box with "Your Love Is Driving Me Crazy", the "I Can't Drive 55" tour, red stage, red clothes, red Firebird on stage, and he RAN, RAN, RAN nonstop. Running, playing leads, singing with a headset mic. The epitome of arena rock. Got to see him on all of them. Unbelievable stamina and musical talent, to this day.

[@grilledspaghetti]

Should do 5150 (Live Without a Net) version. Sammy's core strength was phenomenal live. You will not be Disappointed. Oh, and Eddie does an extended solo that is fantastic. Edit: and it plays with time signatures and subdivision, you can have fun counting.

[@Desincarne]

God that live version is MOMENTOUS.

[@gheath87]

Still envious I want in that crowd! So good!!

[@jeffc8965]

I was going to recommend this as well. Great singing and one of my favorinte EVH riffs. (And when you look at what Van Halen created, that's saying a lot.)

[@dancallahan4183]

I think it's "Live - Right Here, Right Now" - LWAN was from the 5150 tour You're absolutely right though, the live performance is great!

[@roofman09]

I wore out the VCR tape of "Live Without a Net". Got to see them in person on the 5150 tour. It was, and still is, the best concert I've ever been to. R.I.P. Eddie

[@hikerstephen2669]

Another great thing about Sammy Hager. He sounded just as good or better live in concert. He is a incredible performer and singer.

[@js6729]

I've seen him 3 times, once with the wabo's right after he left Van Halen, once with Chickenfoot, and once with The Circle. Sammy is always awesome in concert!

[@lancehowlett3910]

The Circle performers this song and it’s fantastic

[@joeyrabon4208]

Yes he did

[@js6729]

@@lancehowlett3910 they also do an acoustic version of Higher that's amazing

[@joelhahn2501]

Sammy Hagar's "Heavy Metal" (from the Heavy Metal movie soundtrack) is a great but lesser-known showcase of his voice & control, as well as a killer scream and some excellent sliding through the diphthong in the word "noise".

[@headlibrarian1996]

That’s a good song, but the Blue Oyster Cult tracks from that soundtrack are better, I think.

[@bm549bh]

I’m glad to see so many pro Sammy Hagar words here ! I loved Sammy all throughout his career from Montrose and on …..

[@brianthompson6019]

When I first heard that DLR was out I was heartbroken. Van Halen was one of my fav bands and so was Hagar but then when they announced he was joining VanHalen i thought that they couldn’t have done better. It was a great match and I believe he elevated the band even more if that’s even possible

[@buckshroyer5665]

He did, regardless of what all the dlr faithful think.🙃

[@justinscott7492]

I think they scored their first #1 with him as singer....

[@marklar7551]

I always liked VH, both singers. I think Sammy was able to pull off ballads and rockers where Dave was all about him and wanting to be in HIS band and not Van Halen.

[@vanyadolly]

I literally never even noticed they changed singers as a kid 😂

[@daveweber9577]

I was scared about “Van Hagar” would work out. Turns out there was nothing to worry about & Van Halen remained awesome & didn’t miss a beat after DLR was gone.

[@dunnd1]

This lady does the best reactions. I always learn something, her enthusiasm is infectious, and easy on the eyes. She's an opera singer, but when I hear her talk about EVH's solo choices, I'm like "she gets it!" Music and Math really are the universal languages.

[@benburnett8109]

or maybe she's good at knowing her material and her audience.............

[@jerryjeffries6094]

Yes she is very beautifully easy on the eyes. Her expressions are so very cute. And her hair is a beautiful whisp of fire. So beautiful

[@danskyl7279]

I hope she reacts to Van halen love walks in liveee.

[@corssecurity]

​@@jerryjeffries6094married and a son.

[@ScooterOnHisWay2024]

I agree, but I wish she would interrupt a little less and let the song flow to natural breaks before providing her take. No offense to her.

[@wyckedsyxx5902]

I have been a Sammy Hagar fan from forever, back to his days as lead singer of Montrose... His solo "Three Lock Box" tour was the first concert I ever attended. He is AMAZING live. I love both "flavors" of Van Halen... so glad you did a deep dive on this! Thank you, Elizabeth!

[@claytonl1126]

The difference between Dave and Sammy is dave wanted to be the show. And Sammy wanted everyone to feel the music and passion van Halen was all about

[@QuicknStraight]

The difference is that Sammy Hagar is a much more accomplished vocalist!

[@sretePtraB]

​@QuicknStraight and guitarist. Thanks to Sammy, Eddie could ad even more of his piano playing, because Sammy would hold down the riff on rhythm guitar

[@markb107]

💯 Dave was all show, and Sammy was the go that took Van Halen to the level of three number 1 albums in a row, and nine top 40 hits. Mic drop on who brought more to the band.

[@Wishes890]

The real difference is that before Sammy hagar, the band with David Lee Roth was a fun band. In my opinion when Hagar joined the van that the fun went out of it

[@FVZCB]

Ma la magia c era quando Diamond Dave era il frontman

[@papasith7766]

The music video for this song is so relevant and strikes a real chord emotionally. It was a real departure from the “fun” music videos at the time. I HIGHLY recommend it! Much peace, love and as always… MTFBWY!❤️

[@kevinlamke4163]

2nd verse "maybe we should pay more attention to the lyrics "

[@darrenl3289]

very true, but they still had a little fun in the video too. I remember them slipping in the wall of text during the instrumental that said "Right now, a man is on an eastbound transatlantic flight from New York to Paris wondering how to say "dog, howl, and moon" in French just in case it comes up. lol

[@Robert_Douglass]

@papasith7766 Aren't you supposed to say something like "May the Force Serve You Well"?

[@apetro8895]

Spot on about the singers. The easiest explanation is Dave was heavily into Vaudeville and was entertainment first, music second. You see that not only in their lyrics but in their music videos. On the other hand, Sammy is all about the music and could do things with his voice that Dave could not. He's also a phenomenal guitarist. Sammy definitely unleashed Eddie's incredible musical and songwriting talents. Both were incredible in their own right, and have their place in time. Love 'em both...Enjoy!

[@sanyr80]

Unironically a big Van Hagar fan. This is one of their best songs.

[@BrianKoppe]

Van Hagar fans unite! 😂

[@CelestialWoodway]

Roth only.

[@gavinsheridan4680]

I’ll never get why people choose. You can like more than one thing.

[@user-pq9ji7kt4l]

​​@@CelestialWoodway Ha ha, you didn't even get one Like!😂 Update.... You got 2 Likes for Roth! Whoa

[@BrianKoppe]

@@gavinsheridan4680 Oh I totally agree, DLR Van Halen is also great! But I definitely have a preference.

[@dbf1dware]

RIP Eddie. Near as I recall, this was the first time Eddie really showed off his keyboard skills. Amazing. An absolute GOD on guitar, and then he shows off this. Just wow. I would like to also add that I think Sammy, in spite of all of his fame, is honestly underrated as a singer. One of the BEST. I would like to add that, not only is Sammy an amazing singer, but he is also an amazing lyrics writer.

[@jabronijoeoutdoors]

This is such a great tune. In my opinion 'Dreams' by Van Hagar is the perfect highlight of Sammy's voice. He hits some crazy notes in that tune.

[@charleskandrut7022]

Van Halen

[@jabronijoeoutdoors]

@@charleskandrut7022 I know the bands name lol. Van Hagar is what people commonly call the band in reference to the years Sammy Hagar was their lead singer. If you were a fan you'd know that and laugh along instead of trying to correct someone. 😀

[@dyer2cycle]

I personally use the terminology "Van Halen Mk.I" and "Van Halen Mk.II", that's just me...I never really cared much for the "Van Hagar" moniker, even though it isn't necessarily a negative term. I like both versions, but I make no apologies, it's VH Mk.II for me....@@charleskandrut7022

[@trollgoodman7808]

​@@jabronijoeoutdoorsYou sir are 100% correct. People can be too divisive. Bottom line is Eddie wrote the incredible instrumental music on Dreams but Sammy wrote the incredible top line melody and inspirational lyrics. Good post sir 👏

[@VR4pt0r]

I’ve seen Sammy live 3 times with VH (yeah I’m bloody old 🫣🫣) His energy and connection with the crowd is just mind blowing. Case in point is this very song live version. So good! Sammy loves the crowd, DLR loves himself.

[@julielarson1361]

I saw Sammy during his solo era...I'm not THAT old 😊

[@iDONTdoFacebook]

Your last line. So true regarding both. Van-Hagar produced the better, more meaningful and moving stuff. TIMELESS. Whereas the Roth stuff was good for a time, then it starts wearing out. It’s superficial. It has an expiration date. Their stuff with Sammy never fails to stir my soul and seriously energize me! Goosebump city!

[@Mrevits78]

Remembering the day this album came out, thirty years ago, gave me some vertigo.

[@brianthompson6019]

I’m gonna have to agree with you! I saw VH with DLR and Sammy and I’ve seen Sammy solo and while DLR put on a good show, the musicianship and engagement of the crowd and the level of their performances went up with Hagar. Hate me all you want but the FUCK tour was epic!

[@VR4pt0r]

@@brianthompson6019 Soooo true, Sammy is still kicking and killing it :) I saw him playing back in 2018 Miami, small venue absolutely PACKED!!! Bloody awesome night

[@metalmark1214]

If you want to explore Sammy Hagar further, Sammy was in Montrose, had a solo career and was in a band named Chickenfoot

[@kenkonwick6660]

As well as The Circle,

[@MarkSchimmelpfenig]

Don’t forget the Wanoritas!

[@kenkonwick6660]

Mas Tequila!!!!!!

[@dragontears4me989]

Yaaaaas!!

[@SixStringSteve]

And did an awesome lp with Neal Schon under the name HSAS 🤘

[@paulfurse2288]

You found my all time favorite VH tune! Dreams is a close second. Amazing skills and talent!

[@TheWrm1969]

Thank you so much for taking on the Sammy Hagar incarnation of Van Halen aka Van Hagar! The great thing about Sammy fronting the band is that their catalog is so diverse while Sam and Ed truly brought out the best in each other. To hear Sam's true range, I would suggest Not Enough (w/official video), When It's Love, Dreams, Love Comes Walking In. Some fun songs are Cabo Wabo, Top of the World, Poundcake, Take Me Back (Deja Vu), Feels So Good, and Summer Nights. Heavier/ Harder sounds would be Humans Being, 5150, Amsterdam, Don't Tell Me, and Seventh Seal. LASTLY - you could break the internet if you compared Jump, Panama, and Ain't Talking Bout Love - Dave's studio version w/VH versus Sammy's live vocals from the album/concert film - Live: Right Here, Right Now. Again, thank you for this, as I have personally been waiting a long time for you to dive into Sam's time with the band!😊

[@jddavis6231]

All perfect recommendations

[@lordmordecai2211]

all great reccommendations, Dreams is one of my all time favourite Van Halen songs.

[@mattblatchley2061]

^^^^^^^^^^^

[@robertmeyer2102]

Saw Sammy live last year. His energy, stage presence, guitar skills, and vocal chops are undiminished despite being in his mid-70's. Not to mention, the set included solo Sammy, Montrose, and Van Halen songs. Remarkable.

[@billyt9987]

Sammy is the man. Been enjoying his music since Montrose. Absolutely love his early solo work. Trans Am, Plain Jane, Cruising and Boozing, Red. Crap, too many to list. Sammy has been rocking for close to 60 years. And I've love every minute of it.

[@williamshoemaker6233]

Hell yeah, Love or Money and Make it Last two of my Fav's!

[@billyt9987]

@williamshoemaker6233 "Make it last" is a killer.

[@maryshaw5578]

Sammy Hagar "Where Eagles Fly" live with him and just his acoustic guitar...An amazing performance!

[@joehohmann6015]

Made me cry in concert...💖💖💖💖

[@AmerikinJackass]

That is probably my favorite song.

[@NoneYaBidness762]

Concur. Great tune

[@keithbaldwin1236]

I'm with you on this! Amazing!!

[@kariwilkens7105]

Hands down my favorite SH song. VH was my first concert and I was so excited when he played it.

[@essomuck9468]

I’d echo others in suggesting 5150 from the Live Without A Net concert. They were all at the top of their game and Eddie’s smile, split kicks, and energy is amazing. Also, one of the best guitar intros ever.

[@KenRoerden]

Still 24 hours to the premier and there are several people letting you know to check out Sammy's earlier work with Montrose. I will add myself to that list. Rock Candy is probably the best place to start and everything off the Montrose album is fantastic. It was released 50 years ago this month. Then there is the solo stuff and later on, Chickenfoot.

[@Captain_Lockheed]

1oo% would recommend live version of Highway star with Chickenfoot.

[@smccoole]

He’s still going even now. Mostly releasing as Sammy Hagar and The Circle. Loved Affirmation on one of their recent albums, Space Between

[@johnwarner6858]

You are right not one bad song. Saw Sammy with Montrose great show.

[@gggghhgggghbb]

I agree with that. 👍

[@jamesreding6336]

Space station number 5 is a great song from Montrose

[@DustVoltrage]

"DREAMS" is a song that really showcase the range of Sammy

[@basher5107]

There “reunion” tour in 2004 was a frikin disaster everybody sucked!

[@bambam0099]

We've seen Sammy several times and he truly has one of rocks greatest voices. The power he exudes is incredible. Watch his live shows; not only does he come across as having fun, he appears to be a down to earth guy.

[@bobbolan4672]

Sammy has one of the best rocker voices ever. His voice was like made for rock music.

[@sixslinger9951]

The first harmonic notes going into the solo are called pinched harmonics. That descending slide you hear is Eddie using his "whammy" bar to manipulate the notes as he uses it masterfully during the whole solo. Eddie was one of a kind and true innovator.

[@Darkpixies]

The split harmonics right before the lead solo, total magic!

[@bryanmcguire3747]

On my "Mount Rushmore" of vocalists, Sammy Hagar will be the first face carved. Slightly gravelly voice, range, some gravitas and lots of emotion.

[@venrakdrake]

Van Halen with Hagar WAS a different band, and still INSANELY good. This song in particular hits me so hard. Especially after Eddie passed. I remember listening to it in high school which was only 6 years ago or so, this song filled me with happiness. It wasn't their best, not catchiest, heaviest, or flashiest work, but for me, it has the most soul, the most heart. I have distinct memories of this song linked with a time in high school where I felt that everything was indeed okay.

[@wompa70]

There was also 7 years between this and Hot For Teacher. This was the third album with Hagar on vocals. I see "Right Now" as more an evolution of "I'll Wait" or "Jump".

[@yobuddi]

Not much to add to what everyone has stated but seeing Sammy live is a great experience. He engages the crowd, brings some of his buddies to perform. Plus he doesn't HAVE to perform. You can tell he is just having a great time doing what he loves. And at his age, more power to him.

[@jonathanbasye3168]

Summer Nights , Dreams , When it's Love, Finish What you Started, Feelin, Can't stop loving you, Top of the world , The seventh seal.. All worthy ! Thank you for covering Right Now!

[@garyalleccia2793]

One of Van Halen's best compositions. Every aspect of this song is amazing. One of my favorites. Love the reaction Liz. Would love to see you jamming your favorite rock song. You rock girl!

[@Randomfishystuff1]

Love it when people discover van Halen for first time, makes me chuckle, the shock haha. Awesome band pure utter musical talent and song writing. RIP Edward Ludwig van Halen.

[@Rebwell]

Absolutely love Sammy. Even before and after on his own. Also love Dave. To me, they aren’t even the same bands but two, Van Halen and Van Hagar. “Your love is driving me crazy” is one of my favorite Sammy songs on his own.

[@sergeantfury785]

Third comment. I have played guitar since the 90's. I am not great, I don't stink either. I have heard Eddie and all of the follow up acts, MANY had merit. With that said, that guitar solo literally brings tears to my eyes. Not complex in any way, just FULL of emotion in a way that only a six player can appreciate.

[@chrisjackson5862]

The Band formed in 72. it was 13 years old by the time David Left in 85. Bringing on Sammy allowed the band to evolve their sound while still holding onto the roots of what made them great and move forward with a fantastic rock singer.

[@cactuscanuck6802]

This is my favorite song of the Van Hagar era. It is a complex, well crafted song with plenty of tension and resolution. Eddie's solo sends a shiver down my spine nearly every time.

[@skullandbones1832]

Listening to Van Halen on a 16-thousand-dollar Alpine car audio system in the1990s took the music to a different level.

[@johnpauljones9310]

Sammy was 43 when he recorded this song. With his belting style of singing, it's amazing he could still hit these high notes and can still hit most of them today at 76.