Earlier this year, the whole world of rock music was weirded out by the news of a potential Van Halen “reunion.” As revealed by former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, he was supposed to be a part of it, alongside Joe Satriani on guitar, Alex Van Halen on drums, and David Lee Roth on vocals. Of course, there were discussions regarding Sammy Hagar and whether he should participate as well, but the whole thing went sour after Newstead’s leak.
But it would seem weird to have any sort of a tour or a residency or an event without Eddie Van Halen. And that’s why many fans and other musicians were weirded out by the whole thing. Joe Satriani also spoke up on the matter, saying that these were only talks and nothing more.
While discussing the matter with Classic Rock, Eddie’s son Wolfgang Van Halen looked back on these plans and why the plans never went into fruition. He was first asked to clarify the whole thing and he compared it with the current Foo Fighters situation, saying:
“I think I already did it with the Taylor Hawkins tributes. I feel a lot of closure because my part of the show was a tribute to my father.”
But he then adds:
“When it comes to Van Halen and entities surrounding the band it’s unfortunate, certainly compared to Foo Fighters who have their shit together with interpersonal relationships.”
“I don’t know what it is with some bands but certain personalities just can’t get over themselves to work collectively for one purpose – that’s been the curse of Van Halen for its entire career.”
“So my playing at the Taylor shows delivered that catharsis without the stresses of dealing with the Van Halen camp, and the players involved. Their camp is very dysfunctional – everyone! – hell, it was difficult to make plans even when the band was active.”
Asked about Sammy Hagar’s recent comments on the matter, with the ex-Van Halen singer saying that he’d love to be part of the whole thing, Wolfgang said:
“He said that, but he also said he wouldn’t. Sammy said two different things. No… I feel that I’ve said my piece, and if the Taylor concerts are all that happens then I’m happy with that.”
Photo: Thomson200 (2021 Shaky Knees – Mammoth WVH (1) Wolfgang Van Halen (cropped)), Abby Gillardi (Van Halen-8597 (20643101375))
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