In yet another incredible interview by the King of All Media, Howard Stern brought ex-Van Hagar (um, Van Halen) singer Sammy Hagar in to the studio to discuss a range of topics from bands that he has been in, was asked to be in, great guitarists, being a liquor salesman – he used to own Cabo Wabo Tequila, but now is behind Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum – the process of coming up with lyrics to songs, and at one point even got on the phone with great friend and ex-bassist of Van Halen, Michael Anthony (who remained on the phone for the remainder of the interview).
Howard ponders why guitarist Eddie Van Halen wouldn’t want to get back together with these guys to once again create the incredible music that they did back in the day. Hagar is extremely candid, in his typical fashion, and just says that he doesn’t think that it would be possible even if they tried, as everyone is in a different head space at this point in their lives (despite the inner turmoil, and the decision to unceremoniously kick Michael Anthony out of the band).
Sammy Hagar is probably one of the chillest dudes in the music business. He is so laid back and just wants to enjoy life and concentrate his musical efforts on Chickenfoot, the project that he and Michael Anthony are in together with guitarist Joe Satriani, and drummer Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Hagar also just released his Sammy Hagar & Friends album, featuring collaborations with Taj Mahal, Toby Keith, Kid Rock, Nancy Wilson of Heart, Joe Satriani, Chad Smith, Michael Anthony, and even Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, among others.
The two discuss the great guitarists, and Hagar says hands-down that Joe Satriani is a “Master of the Guitar”, he can play from the top to bottom frets. And while he thinks guys like Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen are “innovators”, Satriani is the master.
The topic of David Lee Roth comes up, and both Hagar and Anthony have really less than stellar things to say about the original front man of Van Halen, even questioning his overall character, basically saying he is just not a nice person.
An interesting anecdote that many people may not know is that outside of Van Halen, Sammy Hagar was also asked to be in Aerosmith, Motley Crue, Velvet Revolver, and The Dead reformed post-Jerry Garcia. Hagar is neighbors and good friends with Bob Weir, and performed with them on a few occasions.
Listen to the entire interview here:
[via Jambase]