So True. I'm so glad I found his channel a couple years back. Everyone should go watch his early video, "Who is the Professor of Rock?" The real losers in this debate are the ones that took sides and refused to enjoy everything that was available then. Hopefully, they can put all that "pick a side crap" behind them now and start to just enjoy it all. What a time it was in the late '80s for music!
@ Andy Amen Brother!!! My brother who is also a musician called me the next day and told me that Eddie was gone... I was in shock... Eddie gave me the inspiration to practice more often and to create songs from my heart... My girlfriend at the time even told me that I love my guitar more than I loved her...(She was right!!!) So I picked up my phone and went to TH-cam and there was this channel called Professor of Rock and I started watching it... Now I can't wait for the next Professor of rock Video!!! Adam's Soulful explanations of the bands and songs has made me a Professor of Rock junkie!!!
Mike harmonized with both Dave and Eddie. He enhanced the chemistry with both. Interestingly you hear Mike in the early recordings yelling for the crowd to respond along with Dave. Not so later on. It became too much the Dave Show. You know Ed didn't like it.
Michael Anthony is arguably the greatest background vocalist ever... and a criminally underrated bass player. And having had a chance to spend a little time with him, I can honestly say he's a super cool dude, too.
I live in NZ and went to the last show of the tour with Gary Cherone for VHIII in Wellington and it was obvious things were not good. However. Mr Anthony saved that show, singing stuff from the DLR and SH eras when Gary would wander off stage. He was awesome. I'm a drummer (was, thanks to arthritis) and I was there to see Alex, but I don't think I even looked at Eddie, let alone Alex while Michael was singing. I was really sad about how Michael was exited from the the VH-sphere.
When Eddie passed, my eyes instantly opened to how hard I had always been on the Hagar era. It’s interesting how hindsight works. The final minutes of your video described exactly how I felt when I got the news Eddie was gone. I stopped comparing the eras & simply started to enjoy them both equally.
As a lifelong VH fan, it never occurred to me to not love both versions and singers. Many friends did pick a favorite version/singer, but to me it was all great.
Same here, I always loved all Van Halen. I was devastated when I heard DLR left the band, but then I couldn't have been happier when they announced Sammy was his replacement. I always loved the Red Rocker too.
@@Thomasmemoryscentral A GREAT question! The answer is A LOT more arguing. There was a big division on the Sabbath change, but people pretty much liked Dio, even if they liked Ozzy better. With Van Halen it seemed like it was either “NOW I like them” or “NOW I hate them.
Eddie was a once in a lifetime musician. The sheer amount of people he influenced is so massive that it can not be understated what a gigantic effect he had on the music landscape we all know and love. I remember hearing a story once about Alex going to a party and asked Eddie if he wanted to come, Eddie was sitting on the edge of the bed playing guitar.....he declined. Alex left around 7pm and came home around 7am and Eddie was still in the same place playing guitar. It is often overlooked but Eddie, while being a musical genius in his own right....didn't get there by just his talent, it took many, many hours of woodshedding to get to that level of expertise. Often I see other new guitarists get discouraged and think they will never get there, it just takes time......at one point Eddie couldn't play a note.....now see the impact that he was able to make by honing his craft, by finding his true self and discovering a way to convey that to others through his guitar. He was never trying to be a virtuoso, he was just being himself. You could tell by the smile on his face that he was one with his instrument and was able to convey himself through the guitar with nothing but happiness. Don't give up, stay your path.....put in the time, but don't forget the passion to be the best you that you can be. We need more musical heroes, the next one could be you. \m/
"If Eddie composed it, I'll always listen." Feels man... Total feels there. I agree that the argument between Sammy and Dave should stay in the '80s. Thanks as always.
Why is Eddie off limits from any criticism? Because he died? He is the greatest guitarist of all time, but he is also the main reason VH didn’t get to the next level. Breaking up the band more than a few times. He was an Uber talented but lying drunk. Just because he didn’t have a mic in front of him most times doesn’t mean he has no ego.
I saw the OU812 tour in Salt Lake City. It was the last city of the tour. When they played “Finish What You Started,” all 4 wives/ GF came out on stage and danced to the song, similar to what was on the video. As the song started to end and they were dancing off stage, Valerie turned around, ran back over to Eddie & gave him a big hug & kiss on the cheek, then she ran back off. The crowd went wild! It was an awesome moment. And Eddie still hit every note perfectly. Great show!
Hummmmm🙄🤨🧐🤔Eddie, & Alex were in the band the entire time from start to finish..... So wtfru talking about? I loved all of it w/DLR & SH eras along w/Michael as well..... Van Halen always kicked azz.....
I'm 31 years old and knew most of the big VH hits from radio or whatever, but I recently listened to all of their albums. They are (along with Led Zeppelin) my favorite band of all time now. Absolutely phenomenal!
Heres a list for you, that you will enjoy. Frank marino & mahogany rush LIVE 1978. Humble live at the fillmore. (74 i think) johnny winter live And, (with rick derringer) and pat travers live go for what you know. That list will keep you busy 😁
Welcome. All are welcome to and with Van Halen. It's not a competition. But Van Halen was about the party, not the drama or necessarily drugs, when coming to their music. Yeah, the Roth-Hagar feud, whatever. But the music and skill of the band was all phenomenal and levels above all others. Led Zeppelin? Because of the more theatrical rock music they made, it was parallel but at no time better than Eddie, Alex, Michael, and whatever great singer visited. A true Van Halen fan was about the party and , yes, best guitarist in the world.
@@sujalgautam9761 In what respect? I love both those bands nearly equally….for some similar and some different reasons. Another case of “apples and oranges”.
Here's the the thing with the Dave vs. Sammy debate to me....It's two different bands. Dave was perfect for his time, nobody could front the band like he did during that time. With that being said, the way the music progressed, Dave could never do justice to it. He simply didn't have the vocal chops. Sammy was the perfect fit for the place they wound up after Dave. I love both versions equally. A couple things that people really don't think about with Van Halen with the Sam and Dave thing. A lot of things happened during the time when the band was finishing with Dave and starting with Sammy. Digital music(CD's) came out after Diver Down and that "cleaner" version of music also had an influence on artists starting to clean up how they recorded music. Even with CD's, music was still being recorded on tape at first. This cleaned up recording process is evident as you move up the progression of VH albums from 1984 and on. I'm not knocking Dave for his early contributions to VH, they are all musical gold, but he simply didn't have the vocal chops to keep up with VH musically. Sammy simply had a stronger voice, better ability and some range. There are 3 things that I think had a major influence on the Dave/VH split.First, what I mentioned above. The second thing, the brothers and Dave were looking in different directions. Dave pushed hard on doing covers. While some of the covers are their biggest songs of the time, musically they are some of their worst. Eddie hated doing them, Dave loved em. Another thing is with Dave, VH put out 6 albums in 5 1/2 years. With Sammy they did 4 albums in 12. I think putting out that much product, touring, and becoming famous, .....the mesh started to fray. I honestly think the downfall of Sammy with the band was based on a lot of bad habits on Eddie's part. Seeing Eddie in interviews and live shows that I attended, it was clear that Eddie was dealing with some demons. Eddie and Sammy seemed to draw the best from each other and I believe both of them have said things to that effect. unfortunately in the world of musicians, it seems in most cases, when they finally figure things out it's always just a little too late. Unrelated to the Sam and Dave thing... ANOTHER thing I think people overlook is the fact that Eddie was an incredible rhythm player. Everyone goes right to "eruption" when they talk of his playing. Eruption showed really nothing of his ability with the guitar. His guitar work on Fair Warning(and you can even take away the all of the solos) is nothing short of genius.
Agreed. And it should be noted that it was two different eras. Rock/ pop in the mid 80s was predominately keyboard driven vs. Roth era which was more guitar based. With that in mind, Roth left at the perfect time for the band to push forward.
DLR said it best himself when describing the two era's he said "All of Sam's lyrics contain love, 'Why Can't This be Love?' and I 'Ain't Talkin Bout Love'..." Roth era VH is gritty,dirty punchy rock! Hagar VH is sweet and blooming with melodies/counter melodies and harmony. Both have Merit, but VH without DLR in the beginning never would have happened, Dave was the lighting bolt that tamed the chaos of eddie's playing, Sammy never would have been able to do that with early VH.
Yeah, loved them both! But would much rather see them w/Sammy than Dave...period. Dave's a frontman but Sammy's a singer & a frontman, there's no comparison to who's better live
@@teddysalad8227 entirely less? Tell that to the 4 number one albums in a row and you’re right it’s Van Hagar, which is wayyy better than Van Halen. By far the best era is 86 to 95
I LOVE that you’ve had that HSAS record on display a couple times. An under appreciated effort from Hagar and Schon. “Missing You” is such a gem of that record.
the Fans win we were able to hear 2 different styles at their peak love every bit of Van Halen, Diamond Dave and Red rocker! what a time to be rocking in music dam fun times
OU812 was so jam packed with brilliant songs! Eddie was Eddie whether with DD or SH! Thank you Professor for honoring Eddie in such a wonderful heartfelt way.
I first saw VH on their Fair Waring tour in '81. My aunt took me for my 15th B-Day. Then saw them again on their OU812 tour in '88. Great band with either singer/lyric writer.🤘
OU812 is incredible. Every time I plug my iPhone into the car “A.F.U. (Naturally Wired)” kicks on. Gets me revved up and ready to go for the day. RIP Ed.
What’s also so interesting to me is how Eddie changed his playing style from DLR to Sammy and then again went back to playing a lot of his older licks when the original lineup returned.
I'm 49 years old. You said it perfectly. I also kept tabs on DLR and VH after they split. Such an amazing time. I used to buy heavy metal magazines and hang them pages on my wall.
I was in high school 84-88, so I got both. I was always of the opinion that adding Sammy was like adding a new instrument - his voice. You gotta admit it was much better. Dave put on a better show; Sammy made better music. I saw them three times with Sammy, and needless to say, NEVER a bad show.
I graduated HS in 83, so I was a DLR guy....never really got in to Sammy, although I did like some of their songs. I don't know....just seemed more "poppy" to me, but bands evolve over time. Just wasn't my thing, thats all.
Also, I love Steve Vai (who gives a nod to Zappa in the guitar solo in "Ladies' Night In Buffalo" via "Sleeping In A Jar") but mentioning that album without mentioning Billy Sheehan ? Yeah?
Van Halen was my most favorite band growing up in the 80’s whether it was DLR or Sammy, it was just a fantastic band that backed both iconic singers. Great musicianship from EVH. He was an absolute genius in writing songs and creating something absolutely special. Their music will live on for generations because it was way ahead of their time. Hopefully my kids and grandkids and even great grandchildren will come to enjoy this great incredible band that we in the 80’s got a chance to witness firsthand. Greatest music ever! 🤘
I was a huge fan of the dlr years and an even bigger fan of the Sammy years. I could listen to EVH all day every day just playing his music. Eddie, Alex, and Michael could elevate anyone singing for them!
I do, just like Dave with VH better then Sam. It isn't that I dislike Sam at all, It's like replacing any famous front man with another person for me. VH was always Dave, Ed, Alex and Michael. They became famous and good together, not as good apart. VH with Dave sold 57 million records, with Sammy 27 million. Best selling record with Dave was 17 million, with Sam 10 million. The media hype with Sam made them appear bigger or better, but it was just appearance hype to promote the band. The people who loved Van Halen from the start did not take well to the band breaking up. The sound, feel and tone of VH changed.
Just discovered this channel and I’m really glad I did! The content is right up my alley but it goes deeper than other rock channels I’ve come across. Also the community is great, it’s just people appreciating good music without the bickering that usually comes with something subjective as music which unfortunately is hard to find these days.
You've explained my sentiments perfectly, the divide between lead singers is pointless, old, and poles apart. Like you, I've loved both, and this, all up, was essentially, the Eddie Van Halen era.
Such a great channel! Fascinating details and insights on the circumstances and personalities behind these classic songs. Listen to The Professor everyday.
10:23 Steve said it all right here "Start really slow, perfect, bar by bar...beat by beat, and then eventually you put it together, bring the speed up...anybody could do it...if they just didn't give up." Got to see him live once, with Whitesnake, and it was no joke. they gave him his own solo part of the show and he tore down the house. what a monster!
It's an unfair world that certain TH-cam personalities -- who produce the equivalent of a Big Mac and fries -- have nearly 110 million subscribers, while someone as entertaining, erudite and humble as Adam only has 208K+ subscribers. I'd encourage folks here who aren't patrons, to become one. There's a couple of different tiers and is easily affordable. Hell, I'm a poor guy but can do $9 a month.
Welcome to the new World Order, Brother. The new America. Substance isn't where it's at any more. That's why we have the * leaders * that we do. This is where we are now. Substance and sincerity isn't important to most people now days.
Ed wanted to replace Mike with Billy back in 1980. Hard to imagine. But Ed complained that Mike never wrote songs and couldn't hear his bass onstage. We could though.
@@NYVoice wow, I never knew that. It doesn't surprise me though, talent knows talent. Billy Sheehan is a MON-STAR on the bass. Him and Via have a video of them live somewhere that is absolutely amazing. They play Shy boy and you have got to watch it. Those two work GREAT together.
@@slayerstacker2074 I'll look for it. Although Billy is awesome, Mike is no slouch and those vocals of his would be hard to replace-all due respect to Wolf.
@@NYVoice no I'm not saying anything bad about Mike. I'm just saying Billy and Via are great together and really how lucky DLR was in surrounding himself with true talent.
@nowonyuno 100% agree. Sadly. VH3 will always be my favorite VH album and Cherone my favorite lead singer, but that is purely subjective to me and where I was when that album came out and why it's special to me (one of the few) but 3 could have been so much better and I think another album would have been even better but oh well. Yeah, Cherone is amazing with Extreme and some of his side projects. He didn't stop exploring options, challenges and different styles for better or worse.
@@tedrohe9048 I actually appreciated VH III and the different things Eddie was doing musically. I saw them twice on that tour. The third show of the tour at Madison Square Garden In NYC. Gary's voice was unfortunately shot after the third song, proving what I and even Nuno Bettancourt had suspected upon hearing some of the songs when he'd visited 5150 studios during the recording: Eddie had asked Gary to sing outside his natural range, namely more in Sammy's range. Nevertheless, they all had fun on stage and s did the audience. The 2nd show was an outdoor show that summer, towards the end of the tour. They were a lot looser on stage and more free than that first show I'd seen. Gary and Eddie sitting on the lip of the stage singing and playing Josephina on acoustic was a hi-ight. Michael Anthony singing lead to Bottom's Up was another. Yeah, they tried with that lineup.
Oh how I love when the video content is about Van Halen! Loved this video Adam. I agreed with so much about what was said in this video. All these eras and songs are a reflection of where Eddie Van Halen was at that point in his life in his songwriting. That's why the focus should be on EVH and the legacy of music he left behind.
I am an original VH fan. I was born in 1963, so I was 15 yrs old when I first heard the VH1 album. In fact our local Rock station touted the release of the album with the incorrect facts about the band leading up to the day of the release. The DJs were making it up as they counted down what they correctly referred to as a record that would change Rock as we knew it. For a week we hear the countdown to this band from Holland who's members did not speak a lick of English, had a singer that sound like nothing else. And they laid it on thick about this 15 year old guitarist that has turned classical music Ito Rock, and had a skill level never heard before on an electric guitar. I just crack up now remembering the loosey-goosey facts, of course designed to inspire rabid anticipation for the release. All of my friends gathered at Rick Miller's house because he had the best stereo of anyone we knew and he was having a release party, eve though we had not heard a note. A cold February 10th 1978 had 25 guys packed into Ricks bedroom. The countdown was started and the DJs new they had every Rock loving kid I the city dying to hear this band. The DJs stated that the time had come and here we go with the band "Van Halen"... I remember thinking that the band name was so European. Everyone was enthralled with Runnin' with the Devil. The DJs stopped the flow to say something to the effect of "this next track is an instrumental by Edward Van Halen, the 15 year old guitar virtuoso. Prepare yourself to be blown away..." Eruption seemed like it was both 30 seconds log and 5 min long at the same time. It absolutely changed my life. Rick was recording the whole thing on Reel to Reel. He passed away years ago, I have no idea what happened to that recording. Over the following months we all learned more about the band. I bought the album ad listed to it at least three times a day. By the time 1985 rolled around I was a serious VH fan and had seen them 5 times in concert. When DLR left the band I was broken. Nobody could take his place. I hated Van Hagar. MY Van Halen was gone. DLR's super-group was made up of the best musicians of that time, and that music was much better than any of the Van Hagar stuff.Don't et me wrong; Van Hagar was excellent music, how could it to be. But I could not connect with the message. Ed and Al were making great music, but it was for the most part such a different direction than VH of old. Then Sammy started really bad mouthing Diamond Dave which really made me hate the Red Rocker. Then the live album came out with Sammy singing classic Dave fronted songs. That was the last straw, I blew a gasket. In 2007 the prayers of us old guys was answered and Dave Was BACK!!! I saw them 6 more times between 2007 and 2015, for a total of 11 times, all with Dave at the wheel. After Eddie died I bought all of the Van Hagar studio CDs, as well as VH3. I forced myself to tolerate Sammy, just to appreciate the guitar (and even the keyboards) playing of the greatest Electric Guitarist of All Time.
I think Eddie's desire to evolve vs Dave wanting more of the same shows in the music following the split. Sammy saying that Eddie inspired him to elevate his song writing says so much about Sammy's respect for Eddie and his talent and you hear it in next three VH albums.
That’s why Eddie kicked Sammy out of the band. The music was just not as good and Sammy always trying to be a Hero. Who cares if it’s technically good the music was so water down rock that most people can’t stand to listen to it.
Til the day he died Ed said Scammy quit . And they quit getting along when Scammy tried bossing him around . He never put it in his smear campaign book ,BUT whatever happened Scammy said something to Ed to really piss him off . Again he was never fired . He said he quit then he was fired . Scammy is a 2faced bitch . On top of that he's a rat and a snitch . You don't rat on your friends for any reason .
I saw every Van Halen tour there was I was lucky enough to be born in 1966 Whether it was Dave or Sammy it all was great because it was written by Edward Edward God-bless you Ed We miss you buddy rest in peace you'll never be forgotten not in my house you're everywhere
Professor, you truly have a passion for what you do. It is unmistakable. When you were talking about EVH and how his creative genius did not depend on any of the singers he had worked with; I couldn't agree more! It's kinda crazy but I didn't realize how big of a fan of EVH I was until he was gone. This video honestly says a lot of what needs to be said so thank you for that and thank you for what you do.
I just love this channel. I watch each video even about artists that I’m not fans of because the Professor talks about everyone with such admiration and passion. I always walk away with a new appreciation for everyone’s talent and artistry.
Easier to understand the happenings of Van Halen now, decades later. Then I was a bit pissed off, not liking either DLR or VanHagar as much as the beloved original VH lineup... but as an artist, Eddie had to do it. If DLR refused keyboards and Eddie's growth and needs as a musician... well, see ya later. As you stated clearly, it's the music of Eddie Van Halen that we love. The Van Halens were likely challenging to work with but I'm sure glad Sammy and Gary gave it a go. Gotta love the red rocker. Enjoy his interviews very much. Thanks POR team, another great piece of work.
I saw Van Halen live once in 2012 when Dave came back along w/EVH, Alex, and Eddie's son Wolfgang (Wolfie) playing bass--This was in Phoenix, AZ while on tour and it became one of the greatest concerts I've ever seen//BTW, Kool & The Gang opened for them too! 🎵🎶🔊
10:46 I just fell in love with Steve Vai. I have always liked his music. At this point in the interview he reinforced everything I have learned since my friend died and left me his guitar. I can play anything, as long as I start slow, perfect the fingering, build speed, and never give up. My chances of reaching his skill level doubtful. He probably has 30 or 40 years of practice on me. I play everyday because, it makes my soul happy. I hope if I ever get to met Vai by then ill be good enough to back him upwith the rythm part. I feel so good right now, I'm gonna go practice till my fingers bleed.
Good video👌🏻. I love Sammy’s solo stuff, and he certainly added an element of the melodic to Van Halen, but it lost some rawness and grittiness from the David Lee Roth days
As usual another stellar video this time the subject of Dave vs. Sammy now I was 14 when started listening to Van Halen and of course wanted to be as cool as Diamond Dave! I graduated in 84 when everything went down and I didn't have a problem with Sammy because hell he rocked! I saw Van Halen with Dave and I saw them with Sammy both awesome shows and of course they were and are their own individual selves and they were both great shows!!! I'm like you Professor, we have been blessed to have the opportunity to listen to both frontmen and the genius of Edward Van Halen!!!!!
I would say Eddies best work was on VH1 AND Fair Warning. The first album for obvious reasons, Fair warning because it was the first album they had to work on from scratch as the other 3 albums had songs that were already there in one form or another, hence it was more dark . In my opinion
@@lloydmunga4961Hang me for this if you will, but I'd say after VH1 and Fair Warning, his strongest work was on VH3. The complexity of all those songs alone is worth something, I've NEVER seen anyone play Without You with the same swing that Eddie put into it
“Feel Your Love Tonight” “Outta Love Again” “Woman In Love” “So Is This Love” “Why Can’t This Be Love” “Love Walks In” “When It’s Love” “Can’t Stop Lovin’ You” “Don’t Tell Me (What Love Can Do) Ok.... one more than Roth.... I love both versions of the band.....
I love both Dave and Sam. I find the whole debate strange. My favorite Dave album is FAIR WARNING. My favorite Sam album is toss up between OU812 and 5150. Some might argue that Fair Warning is the greatest Van Halen album of all time. There is not a bad song on this record. It is definitely under rated. It fucking rocks hard.
Loved VH since I was a teenager in the 70s. Also been a Sammy fan since the first time I heard bad motor scooter. I thought Dave’s bravado was over the top but love his music. Sammy is a more versatile singer and brought a new depth to the band , they were great. VH made great music in both eras, I still love all of it. Sometimes I wanna rock to mean streets and sometimes dreams or Finnish what ya started is just what I need. RIP EVH. One of a kind.
Eddie said he never wanted to do or felt the need to do a solo album because he ALWAYS wrote what he wanted to write in the context of Van Halen. No matter who fronted the band. He was constantly experimenting and evolving, but the constant was....it was ALWAYS Eddie.
Van Halen III is Eddie’a solo album. He played nearly all of the bass, some of the drums, and even some of the lyrics. Cherone was living in Ed’s basement and Ed told him how to sing. Of course, that’s classic Eddie: tell the public VH III is a group effort when in private he’s ordering people around and being a drunken control freak. That’s how he escaped criticism.
Isn’t that insane - I love that so much - it goes to what Sammy has said about when he first met Eddie: “he was the most humble musician I ever met” - man I love that!
Van Halen with David Lee Roth defined my high school years, 1984 was a solid part of my life’s soundtrack back then. I was pretty torn when he left the band. I’ve been a huge fan of Sammy Hagar since his Montrose days, so when he joined Van Halen I was tickled! His contribution to Van Halen gave them a more mature sound that I still love to this day. Fortunately, I got to see Van Halen with Sammy for their Balance tour, it was one of the best concert experiences for me.
I've always said that I enjoyed both Sammy and Dave, but when forced into a corner, I'd have to give Dave the edge, mainly because of the showmanship, and the fact that he was the original. Lately, after Eddie's passing, I've thought about this more. To me, Eddie's inventiveness was never in question (apart from the low point Van Halen III) in either era. My oldest son, who has recently began to get into Van Halen, really digs the Sammy stuff because he is such an amazing vocalist. Sammy's lyrics are, on the whole, also more positive and uplifting. Now, I think I'm with the Professor. The eras are pretty evenly matched: just enjoy the entirety of what Eddie had to offer.
Well stated at 24:11; "If Eddie composed it, I'll ALWAYS listen". Genius is indeed genius. And that's just who and what Ed was, and will always be. Savant.
What a great video. This is my first time finding this channel and it absolutely brought me back. I felt like I was listening to the Glory days of rolling Stone magazine put into video format. I am hooked and subscribed. Thanks for the great content.
Listened to Give To Live on the way home from work then I’m watching you talk to Sammy about it. That song holds up today and the words should be taken seriously especially what’s going on in the World.
Always liked VH but became a fan when the drummer for a band I was in in Ecuador in 95-96 was a HUGE fan of EVH and lent me all the albums. Much later, I became a major fan of Sammy and finally saw him at the Cabo Wabo back in 2015!
Thank you Professor for the insightful passionate commentary. As a child of the 70s & 80s & beyond the VH & DLR music holds a fond place in my heart to this day. Thank you for this channel. Keep up the amazing work!
Van Halen with David Lee Roth is distinctly better than Van Hagar, VH w/Cherone, Roth solo, Hagar solo etc. The reason: original VH w/DLR was a groundbreaking guitar based rock n roll band. In particular, on Van Halen I & Fair Warning EVH’s guitar playing is absolutely unreal. EVH was in unchartered guitar territory during that era. The band was young and hungry. By the time Van Hagar came around Eddie was continuing on the keyboard road he started on 1984. The songs were more pop structured at that point. Not bad or anything just not as balls-out rocking guitar as it had once been. And Roth was the ultimate frontman in the 70’s thru the early 80’s.
What a great vid, and a great point that is being made here. The Dave - Sam thing is old now. The fact is.... both eras of Van Halen were unbelievable, and can not be eclipsed, really, by anybody. It is all part of "The Van Halen Era." And it's all magic. We, The Fans, won big on this one. What a band. Both versions. Unbelievable.
as someone who saw both Diamond Dave and Sammy on their tour together, I found that both are fantastic in their own way. Diamond Dave was the entertainer. Sammy was the performer. Both different yet made the VH band in their own way. It’s all subjective and there is no right answer.
Our timelines on Earth parallel, Professor. As I was a youngster, DLR was the Dude. My older bros were in bands. By the time 1984 came out, I knew all the lyrics before they did. I was 7. When Hagar joined Van seemed to coincide with the band maturing musically. So as a teen and young adult, the Sammy era lyrics got memorized too. Van Halen's music in any era stirs the soul! Thank You to Van Halen and Professor! Rock On!
One thing about Eddie that only occurred to me around the time of his death was that, in watching hours of concert footage of him from the early 80s up until the last times he appeared on stage with Dave, Wolfgang and Alex, Eddie always had a smile on his face and looked like he enjoyed performing for people. Some bands and artists who have been around for decades sometimes seem to hit the stage and are just there to cash a paycheck and make it through the show.
@ Scott Smith I've noticed that also Scott. There is an interview with him talkin about how he felt he was just messing around having fun on stage and how great it was to be able to preform for the fans doing what he loved! So smiling from ear to ear just comes naturally ☺️
I think it's the synthesizers. Those sounds were fresh and innovative at the time, but some of the sounds didn't age well. The VH albums before Diver Down had little to no synthesizers. They had guitars, bass, and drums. The essence of Rock music.
great video, loved it all... had my VCR ready all the time and taped everything. I was 15 years old and just started playing guitar, such a great time to be starting out...
i agree,i just cannot get past the original lineup,ive tried......just cannot feel it.guess the dave years were a better chapter in my life! just gotta be dave for me....ledgend.nothing against sammy......
I miss Ed so much! His music will forever be a huge source of inspiration to me. I'll never forget the first time I heard Van Halen. I was only nine years old. It was December 1, 2010. I was walking downstairs that evening, shortly after dinner, and my eyes instantly shot towards the tv screen as the MTV video for "Jump" began to play. I couldn't believe the amazing synthesizer tone. I'd never heard anything like it and never really cared much for the instrument up to that point. I marveled at the sight of Mr. Van Halen; with his long hair, flashy, yellow and black striped shirt, and multicolored jeans. I was blown away by his guitar solo, and taken even more aback as he switched back to the synthesizer. Not only did I want to look like him, I also wished I could play like him. I'm sure I liked rock songs before that day, but it was then that I really began to realize exactly how much I appreciated the genre. The experience was so incredible to me that I wrote about it, hence why I remember the date. I found 1984 in my dad's collection of CDs months later, took it upstairs to my room, and played Jump over and over. Eddie's keyboard solo, never failing to give me goosebumps. I drove my sister nuts for months playing the album on repeat, gradually branching out from only listening to my favorite song. It was the first rock album I ever independently played repeatedly. While playing this album countless times, I began to realize little parts of the music that I hadn't noticed on previous listens, and I also began to appreciate how each instrument performed individually. A couple years later, my grandparents got me a keyboard for my twelfth birthday and I made it my mission to slowly learn Eddie's lead keyboard part on "Jump." His death hit me the hardest out of any musician so far. He's my favorite guitar player and he inspired me to play the keyboard. 1984 will always have a special place in my heart as the first album that really captivated me musically and got me into my favorite genre as an individual.
My first rock concert was OU812. I never saw Diamond Dave in concert with or without Van Halen but I can tell you that the OU812 tour was phenomenal. I loved the energy and the vocals of the band. Yes, I think DLR is a powerhouse of a singer and has A LOT of great tunes! But Van Halen with Sammy was just as amazing (like I said I never saw Van Halen live with DLR) and I loved the concert. It was a rockin' fun time. So I vote that both DLR and Sammy are great with Van Halen. They each had their unique sound. I really do believe that since they had to replace DLR that Sammy was they absolute best choice. His voice is just as good as DLR (in my opinion). Thanks for this video and the interview. I really enjoyed it. I also agree with you regarding Eddie. He was in a league of his own. Sad to see him go. Take care and stay safe everyone.
Possibly the most heart felt, honest(but fair) music channel. I feel like I want to cry when you talk about EVH. Thank you.
Yeah this channel is definitely a gem. Glad I found it!
Agree. Professor of Rock is a true professional and is absolutely great at what he does.
Same thing... Finishing up with Dreams almost did me in. 😭🤟
So True. I'm so glad I found his channel a couple years back. Everyone should go watch his early video, "Who is the Professor of Rock?"
The real losers in this debate are the ones that took sides and refused to enjoy everything that was available then. Hopefully, they can put all that "pick a side crap" behind them now and start to just enjoy it all. What a time it was in the late '80s for music!
@ Andy Amen Brother!!! My brother who is also a musician called me the next day and told me that Eddie was gone... I was in shock... Eddie gave me the inspiration to practice more often and to create songs from my heart... My girlfriend at the time even told me that I love my guitar more than I loved her...(She was right!!!)
So I picked up my phone and went to TH-cam and there was this channel called Professor of Rock and I started watching it... Now I can't wait for the next Professor of rock Video!!! Adam's Soulful explanations of the bands and songs has made me a Professor of Rock junkie!!!
I'm a fan of the Eddie era.
Well said
Could not have put it better myself
... the only era.
Well put!!
Ya kinda
The real hero is Michael Anthony and those incredible backing vocals/harmonies! His backing vocals really enhanced both Dave and Sam’s lead vocals.
Michael Anthony really is the secret sauce of the band. No wonder Sammy still tours with him
Mike harmonized with both Dave and Eddie. He enhanced the chemistry with both. Interestingly you hear Mike in the early recordings yelling for the crowd to respond along with Dave. Not so later on. It became too much the Dave Show. You know Ed didn't like it.
Firing him so he could give his son a job was a horrible move by Eddie.
Yup.. under rated
Unsung hero of van Halen
Michael Anthony is arguably the greatest background vocalist ever...
and a criminally underrated bass player.
And having had a chance to spend a little time with him, I can honestly say he's a super cool dude, too.
Well put, and awesome! Seems like he'd be a real nice guy.
Both Michael and Jeff Pilson (DOKKEN) could be Lead singers they were that good.
@@ScottMacdonaldfishing My reply was sent to the original comment ... so i guess everyone got it??? Have a great weekend!!
Mike isn’t much of a technical bass player, but he got the job done. His vocals are insanely underrated. He’s an integral element to the VH sound.
I live in NZ and went to the last show of the tour with Gary Cherone for VHIII in Wellington and it was obvious things were not good. However. Mr Anthony saved that show, singing stuff from the DLR and SH eras when Gary would wander off stage. He was awesome. I'm a drummer (was, thanks to arthritis) and I was there to see Alex, but I don't think I even looked at Eddie, let alone Alex while Michael was singing. I was really sad about how Michael was exited from the the VH-sphere.
When Eddie passed, my eyes instantly opened to how hard I had always been on the Hagar era. It’s interesting how hindsight works. The final minutes of your video described exactly how I felt when I got the news Eddie was gone. I stopped comparing the eras & simply started to enjoy them both equally.
As a lifelong VH fan, it never occurred to me to not love both versions and singers. Many friends did pick a favorite version/singer, but to me it was all great.
Same here, I always loved all Van Halen. I was devastated when I heard DLR left the band, but then I couldn't have been happier when they announced Sammy was his replacement. I always loved the Red Rocker too.
That's cuz yer a real fan. Props 2 U
@@corvettejohn4507 Did Sammy vs Dave raise as much arguing as Ozzy vs Dio in Sabbath?
@@Thomasmemoryscentral A GREAT question! The answer is A LOT more arguing. There was a big division on the Sabbath change, but people pretty much liked Dio, even if they liked Ozzy better. With Van Halen it seemed like it was either “NOW I like them” or “NOW I hate them.
I love what you said at the end. “ If Eddie composed it, I’ll listen” no truer words have ever been spoken.
Eddie was a once in a lifetime musician. The sheer amount of people he influenced is so massive that it can not be understated what a gigantic effect he had on the music landscape we all know and love.
I remember hearing a story once about Alex going to a party and asked Eddie if he wanted to come, Eddie was sitting on the edge of the bed playing guitar.....he declined. Alex left around 7pm and came home around 7am and Eddie was still in the same place playing guitar.
It is often overlooked but Eddie, while being a musical genius in his own right....didn't get there by just his talent, it took many, many hours of woodshedding to get to that level of expertise.
Often I see other new guitarists get discouraged and think they will never get there, it just takes time......at one point Eddie couldn't play a note.....now see the impact that he was able to make by honing his craft, by finding his true self and discovering a way to convey that to others through his guitar. He was never trying to be a virtuoso, he was just being himself. You could tell by the smile on his face that he was one with his instrument and was able to convey himself through the guitar with nothing but happiness.
Don't give up, stay your path.....put in the time, but don't forget the passion to be the best you that you can be. We need more musical heroes, the next one could be you.
\m/
"If Eddie composed it, I'll always listen."
Feels man... Total feels there. I agree that the argument between Sammy and Dave should stay in the '80s.
Thanks as always.
Agree
But not the Gary Cherone stuff. I even went back after Eddie passed and tried it again, but still couldn't like it.
Amen
Why is Eddie off limits from any criticism? Because he died? He is the greatest guitarist of all time, but he is also the main reason VH didn’t get to the next level. Breaking up the band more than a few times. He was an Uber talented but lying drunk. Just because he didn’t have a mic in front of him most times doesn’t mean he has no ego.
@@Iknowthelaw13 clueless *facepalm*
I saw the OU812 tour in Salt Lake City. It was the last city of the tour. When they played “Finish What You Started,” all 4 wives/ GF came out on stage and danced to the song, similar to what was on the video. As the song started to end and they were dancing off stage, Valerie turned around, ran back over to Eddie & gave him a big hug & kiss on the cheek, then she ran back off. The crowd went wild! It was an awesome moment. And Eddie still hit every note perfectly. Great show!
I like the era Eddie Van Halen and Alex played in.
I like the era Michael Anthony played in
Very well said bro
Uhh,..Ok🤔
Yeah, those were the best years for sure
Hummmmm🙄🤨🧐🤔Eddie, & Alex were in the band the entire time from start to finish..... So wtfru talking about? I loved all of it w/DLR & SH eras along w/Michael as well..... Van Halen always kicked azz.....
I'm 31 years old and knew most of the big VH hits from radio or whatever, but I recently listened to all of their albums. They are (along with Led Zeppelin) my favorite band of all time now. Absolutely phenomenal!
Vh is way behind led zep
Heres a list for you, that you will enjoy. Frank marino & mahogany rush LIVE 1978. Humble live at the fillmore. (74 i think) johnny winter live And, (with rick derringer) and pat travers live go for what you know. That list will keep you busy 😁
@@sujalgautam9761 thats a child like arguement, most likely from a child mind.
Welcome. All are welcome to and with Van Halen. It's not a competition. But Van Halen was about the party, not the drama or necessarily drugs, when coming to their music. Yeah, the Roth-Hagar feud, whatever. But the music and skill of the band was all phenomenal and levels above all others. Led Zeppelin? Because of the more theatrical rock music they made, it was parallel but at no time better than Eddie, Alex, Michael, and whatever great singer visited. A true Van Halen fan was about the party and , yes, best guitarist in the world.
@@sujalgautam9761
In what respect?
I love both those bands nearly equally….for some similar and some different reasons.
Another case of “apples and oranges”.
Here's the the thing with the Dave vs. Sammy debate to me....It's two different bands. Dave was perfect for his time, nobody could front the band like he did during that time. With that being said, the way the music progressed, Dave could never do justice to it. He simply didn't have the vocal chops. Sammy was the perfect fit for the place they wound up after Dave. I love both versions equally.
A couple things that people really don't think about with Van Halen with the Sam and Dave thing. A lot of things happened during the time when the band was finishing with Dave and starting with Sammy. Digital music(CD's) came out after Diver Down and that "cleaner" version of music also had an influence on artists starting to clean up how they recorded music. Even with CD's, music was still being recorded on tape at first. This cleaned up recording process is evident as you move up the progression of VH albums from 1984 and on. I'm not knocking Dave for his early contributions to VH, they are all musical gold, but he simply didn't have the vocal chops to keep up with VH musically. Sammy simply had a stronger voice, better ability and some range.
There are 3 things that I think had a major influence on the Dave/VH split.First, what I mentioned above. The second thing, the brothers and Dave were looking in different directions. Dave pushed hard on doing covers. While some of the covers are their biggest songs of the time, musically they are some of their worst. Eddie hated doing them, Dave loved em. Another thing is with Dave, VH put out 6 albums in 5 1/2 years. With Sammy they did 4 albums in 12. I think putting out that much product, touring, and becoming famous, .....the mesh started to fray.
I honestly think the downfall of Sammy with the band was based on a lot of bad habits on Eddie's part. Seeing Eddie in interviews and live shows that I attended, it was clear that Eddie was dealing with some demons. Eddie and Sammy seemed to draw the best from each other and I believe both of them have said things to that effect. unfortunately in the world of musicians, it seems in most cases, when they finally figure things out it's always just a little too late.
Unrelated to the Sam and Dave thing... ANOTHER thing I think people overlook is the fact that Eddie was an incredible rhythm player. Everyone goes right to "eruption" when they talk of his playing. Eruption showed really nothing of his ability with the guitar. His guitar work on Fair Warning(and you can even take away the all of the solos) is nothing short of genius.
What if Sammy had been the original front man?
Very well said could not agree more !
Agreed. And it should be noted that it was two different eras. Rock/ pop in the mid 80s was predominately keyboard driven vs. Roth era which was more guitar based. With that in mind, Roth left at the perfect time for the band to push forward.
DLR said it best himself when describing the two era's he said "All of Sam's lyrics contain love, 'Why Can't This be Love?' and I 'Ain't Talkin Bout Love'..." Roth era VH is gritty,dirty punchy rock! Hagar VH is sweet and blooming with melodies/counter melodies and harmony. Both have Merit, but VH without DLR in the beginning never would have happened, Dave was the lighting bolt that tamed the chaos of eddie's playing, Sammy never would have been able to do that with early VH.
Nailed it
Best line. “If Eddie composed it, I’m listening to it.” Agree 100%
You’re absolutely right Adam, you don’t need to be either a Dave or Sammy person, you just need to be a Van Halen person.
Yup Van Hagar person lol
Yeah, loved them both! But would much rather see them w/Sammy than Dave...period. Dave's a frontman but Sammy's a singer & a frontman, there's no comparison to who's better live
Van Halen without Dave isn’t Van Halen. It’s something else entirely and less.
@@teddysalad8227 entirely less? Tell that to the 4 number one albums in a row and you’re right it’s Van Hagar, which is wayyy better than Van Halen. By far the best era is 86 to 95
@@anthonygalbo9348 soccer mom music. Moms listened to Van Hagar in their mini vans while their kids were on the field practicing soccer.
I LOVE that you’ve had that HSAS record on display a couple times. An under appreciated effort from Hagar and Schon. “Missing You” is such a gem of that record.
A mighty, mightly missed project. There so much great stuff on this record.
the Fans win we were able to hear 2 different styles at their peak love every bit of Van Halen, Diamond Dave and Red rocker! what a time to be rocking in music dam fun times
Yes Sir. Real TRUTRH right here. We really were the big winners here. We got it all !! Both eras incredible. The soundtrack of my Life, for sure.
OU812 was so jam packed with brilliant songs! Eddie was Eddie whether with DD or SH! Thank you Professor for honoring Eddie in such a wonderful heartfelt way.
Man, I just love Sammy. Hell of a singer as well as the nicest most upbeat guy in the business
He's a 2faced jerk . His book Red was a smear campaign against the Van Halen Bros
I first saw VH on their Fair Waring tour in '81. My aunt took me for my 15th B-Day. Then saw them again on their OU812 tour in '88. Great band with either singer/lyric writer.🤘
Video uploaded 58 seconds ago and I'm not first ? You have very devoted fans, and you deserve it ! Best channel on youtube, by far.
Certainly blessed. Thanks for watching!
58 seconds might as well be yesterday.
@@marchenoecker BLAHAHAHAHAHA!!! That's the truth!!!
I will always be convinced that Van Halen named the album "OU812" as a jab at David Lee Roth naming his album "Eat em and Smile"
Im not gonna lie it took sammy saying it outloud for me to get the OU812 joke lmao
Yup
I love Sammy Hagar's albums with Van Halen, especially because of how he sounds with Michael Anthony. What a brilliant bass player/singer. Phenomenal.
BEST Van Halen related video you've done. And you've done some good ones. Thank you!
OU812 is incredible. Every time I plug my iPhone into the car “A.F.U. (Naturally Wired)” kicks on. Gets me revved up and ready to go for the day.
RIP Ed.
What’s also so interesting to me is how Eddie changed his playing style from DLR to Sammy and then again went back to playing a lot of his older licks when the original lineup returned.
Dave made you wanna party . Scammy made you want a Crystal Pepsi
I'm 49 years old. You said it perfectly. I also kept tabs on DLR and VH after they split. Such an amazing time. I used to buy heavy metal magazines and hang them pages on my wall.
I was in high school 84-88, so I got both. I was always of the opinion that adding Sammy was like adding a new instrument - his voice. You gotta admit it was much better. Dave put on a better show; Sammy made better music. I saw them three times with Sammy, and needless to say, NEVER a bad show.
I graduated HS in 83, so I was a DLR guy....never really got in to Sammy, although I did like some of their songs. I don't know....just seemed more "poppy" to me, but bands evolve over time. Just wasn't my thing, thats all.
Sammy made the music more pop . Dave brought out the grunge .
Also, I love Steve Vai (who gives a nod to Zappa in the guitar solo in "Ladies' Night In Buffalo" via "Sleeping In A Jar") but mentioning that album without mentioning Billy Sheehan ? Yeah?
Van Halen was my most favorite band growing up in the 80’s whether it was DLR or Sammy, it was just a fantastic band that backed both iconic singers. Great musicianship from EVH. He was an absolute genius in writing songs and creating something absolutely special. Their music will live on for generations because it was way ahead of their time. Hopefully my kids and grandkids and even great grandchildren will come to enjoy this great incredible band that we in the 80’s got a chance to witness firsthand. Greatest music ever! 🤘
I was a huge fan of the dlr years and an even bigger fan of the Sammy years. I could listen to EVH all day every day just playing his music. Eddie, Alex, and Michael could elevate anyone singing for them!
“Eddie grew as a musician.” Some fans stayed in late 70s high school.
Not everyone has the heart to love both
I do not. No hate for Sammy. They just weren’t my band anymore.
I do, just like Dave with VH better then Sam. It isn't that I dislike Sam at all, It's like replacing any famous front man with another person for me. VH was always Dave, Ed, Alex and Michael. They became famous and good together, not as good apart. VH with Dave sold 57 million records, with Sammy 27 million. Best selling record with Dave was 17 million, with Sam 10 million. The media hype with Sam made them appear bigger or better, but it was just appearance hype to promote the band. The people who loved Van Halen from the start did not take well to the band breaking up. The sound, feel and tone of VH changed.
Just discovered this channel and I’m really glad I did! The content is right up my alley but it goes deeper than other rock channels I’ve come across. Also the community is great, it’s just people appreciating good music without the bickering that usually comes with something subjective as music which unfortunately is hard to find these days.
"If Eddie composed it.... I'll always listen." 😎👌
You've explained my sentiments perfectly, the divide between lead singers is pointless, old, and poles apart. Like you, I've loved both, and this, all up, was essentially, the Eddie Van Halen era.
Such a great channel! Fascinating details and insights on the circumstances and personalities behind these classic songs. Listen to The Professor everyday.
10:23 Steve said it all right here "Start really slow, perfect, bar by bar...beat by beat, and then eventually you put it together, bring the speed up...anybody could do it...if they just didn't give up."
Got to see him live once, with Whitesnake, and it was no joke. they gave him his own solo part of the show and he tore down the house. what a monster!
It's an unfair world that certain TH-cam personalities -- who produce the equivalent of a Big Mac and fries -- have nearly 110 million subscribers, while someone as entertaining, erudite and humble as Adam only has 208K+ subscribers. I'd encourage folks here who aren't patrons, to become one. There's a couple of different tiers and is easily affordable. Hell, I'm a poor guy but can do $9 a month.
Welcome to the new World Order, Brother. The new America. Substance isn't where it's at any more. That's why we have the * leaders * that we do. This is where we are now. Substance and sincerity isn't important to most people now days.
@@jimmyz2098 People = Shit. Song title - Slipknot.
Checkers sells more than chess.
Adam is MTV and Rolling Stone mag combined - but way above them intellectually.
Sammy Hagar: "I can't drive 55"
David Lee Roth: "I can't drive 55 because there are midgets in the road"
That’s very insightful😆
Not only was Via with DLR but don't forget about Billy Sheehan on bass. Billy and Steve together was absolutely amazing.
Ed wanted to replace Mike with Billy back in 1980. Hard to imagine. But Ed complained that Mike never wrote songs and couldn't hear his bass onstage. We could though.
@@NYVoice wow, I never knew that. It doesn't surprise me though, talent knows talent. Billy Sheehan is a MON-STAR on the bass. Him and Via have a video of them live somewhere that is absolutely amazing. They play Shy boy and you have got to watch it. Those two work GREAT together.
@@slayerstacker2074 I'll look for it. Although Billy is awesome, Mike is no slouch and those vocals of his would be hard to replace-all due respect to Wolf.
@@NYVoice no I'm not saying anything bad about Mike. I'm just saying Billy and Via are great together and really how lucky DLR was in surrounding himself with true talent.
@@slayerstacker2074 Steve Vai is from Carle Place, LI-about 15 minutes from me.
I love both versions of the band too! It is truly “The Best Of Both Worlds” 😜
There is another
Insert MEME of Gary Cherone eating popcorn.
LOL! The foot note in Van Halen history.
@nowonyuno 100% agree. Sadly. VH3 will always be my favorite VH album and Cherone my favorite lead singer, but that is purely subjective to me and where I was when that album came out and why it's special to me (one of the few) but 3 could have been so much better and I think another album would have been even better but oh well. Yeah, Cherone is amazing with Extreme and some of his side projects. He didn't stop exploring options, challenges and different styles for better or worse.
Gary Chaperone < DLR < Sammy Hagar
@@tedrohe9048 I actually appreciated VH III and the different things Eddie was doing musically. I saw them twice on that tour. The third show of the tour at Madison Square Garden In NYC. Gary's voice was unfortunately shot after the third song, proving what I and even Nuno Bettancourt had suspected upon hearing some of the songs when he'd visited 5150 studios during the recording: Eddie had asked Gary to sing outside his natural range, namely more in Sammy's range. Nevertheless, they all had fun on stage and s did the audience. The 2nd show was an outdoor show that summer, towards the end of the tour. They were a lot looser on stage and more free than that first show I'd seen. Gary and Eddie sitting on the lip of the stage singing and playing Josephina on acoustic was a hi-ight. Michael Anthony singing lead to Bottom's Up was another. Yeah, they tried with that lineup.
@@donnswaby369 very cool. Awesome insight. Thank you for sharing that. I never got to see them in concert.
I totally agree with you Professor Of Rock after DLR left the Van Halen train just kept on ROCKING!!!Aloha from Makawao,Maui🤙🏽
Oh how I love when the video content is about Van Halen! Loved this video Adam. I agreed with so much about what was said in this video. All these eras and songs are a reflection of where Eddie Van Halen was at that point in his life in his songwriting. That's why the focus should be on EVH and the legacy of music he left behind.
I am an original VH fan. I was born in 1963, so I was 15 yrs old when I first heard the VH1 album. In fact our local Rock station touted the release of the album with the incorrect facts about the band leading up to the day of the release. The DJs were making it up as they counted down what they correctly referred to as a record that would change Rock as we knew it. For a week we hear the countdown to this band from Holland who's members did not speak a lick of English, had a singer that sound like nothing else. And they laid it on thick about this 15 year old guitarist that has turned classical music Ito Rock, and had a skill level never heard before on an electric guitar. I just crack up now remembering the loosey-goosey facts, of course designed to inspire rabid anticipation for the release. All of my friends gathered at Rick Miller's house because he had the best stereo of anyone we knew and he was having a release party, eve though we had not heard a note. A cold February 10th 1978 had 25 guys packed into Ricks bedroom. The countdown was started and the DJs new they had every Rock loving kid I the city dying to hear this band. The DJs stated that the time had come and here we go with the band "Van Halen"... I remember thinking that the band name was so European. Everyone was enthralled with Runnin' with the Devil. The DJs stopped the flow to say something to the effect of "this next track is an instrumental by Edward Van Halen, the 15 year old guitar virtuoso. Prepare yourself to be blown away..." Eruption seemed like it was both 30 seconds log and 5 min long at the same time. It absolutely changed my life. Rick was recording the whole thing on Reel to Reel. He passed away years ago, I have no idea what happened to that recording. Over the following months we all learned more about the band. I bought the album ad listed to it at least three times a day. By the time 1985 rolled around I was a serious VH fan and had seen them 5 times in concert. When DLR left the band I was broken. Nobody could take his place. I hated Van Hagar. MY Van Halen was gone. DLR's super-group was made up of the best musicians of that time, and that music was much better than any of the Van Hagar stuff.Don't et me wrong; Van Hagar was excellent music, how could it to be. But I could not connect with the message. Ed and Al were making great music, but it was for the most part such a different direction than VH of old. Then Sammy started really bad mouthing Diamond Dave which really made me hate the Red Rocker. Then the live album came out with Sammy singing classic Dave fronted songs. That was the last straw, I blew a gasket. In 2007 the prayers of us old guys was answered and Dave Was BACK!!! I saw them 6 more times between 2007 and 2015, for a total of 11 times, all with Dave at the wheel. After Eddie died I bought all of the Van Hagar studio CDs, as well as VH3. I forced myself to tolerate Sammy, just to appreciate the guitar (and even the keyboards) playing of the greatest Electric Guitarist of All Time.
I think Eddie's desire to evolve vs Dave wanting more of the same shows in the music following the split. Sammy saying that Eddie inspired him to elevate his song writing says so much about Sammy's respect for Eddie and his talent and you hear it in next three VH albums.
That’s why Eddie kicked Sammy out of the band. The music was just not as good and Sammy always trying to be a Hero. Who cares if it’s technically good the music was so water down rock that most people can’t stand to listen to it.
@@brentalan6210 Lol
Til the day he died Ed said Scammy quit . And they quit getting along when Scammy tried bossing him around . He never put it in his smear campaign book ,BUT whatever happened Scammy said something to Ed to really piss him off . Again he was never fired . He said he quit then he was fired . Scammy is a 2faced bitch . On top of that he's a rat and a snitch . You don't rat on your friends for any reason .
I saw every Van Halen tour there was I was lucky enough to be born in 1966 Whether it was Dave or Sammy it all was great because it was written by Edward Edward God-bless you Ed We miss you buddy rest in peace you'll never be forgotten not in my house you're everywhere
I see that Replacements album over your shoulder. Subtle, sir... very subtle.
Professor, you truly have a passion for what you do. It is unmistakable. When you were talking about EVH and how his creative genius did not depend on any of the singers he had worked with; I couldn't agree more! It's kinda crazy but I didn't realize how big of a fan of EVH I was until he was gone. This video honestly says a lot of what needs to be said so thank you for that and thank you for what you do.
I just love this channel. I watch each video even about artists that I’m not fans of because the Professor talks about everyone with such admiration and passion. I always walk away with a new appreciation for everyone’s talent and artistry.
I love both versions. David Lee Roth and Sammy were so different. They brought their own uniqueness to the group . They are both amazing!❤
Easier to understand the happenings of Van Halen now, decades later. Then I was a bit pissed off, not liking either DLR or VanHagar as much as the beloved original VH lineup... but as an artist, Eddie had to do it. If DLR refused keyboards and Eddie's growth and needs as a musician... well, see ya later. As you stated clearly, it's the music of Eddie Van Halen that we love. The Van Halens were likely challenging to work with but I'm sure glad Sammy and Gary gave it a go. Gotta love the red rocker. Enjoy his interviews very much. Thanks POR team, another great piece of work.
I saw Van Halen live once in 2012 when Dave came back along w/EVH, Alex, and Eddie's son Wolfgang (Wolfie) playing bass--This was in Phoenix, AZ while on tour and it became one of the greatest concerts I've ever seen//BTW, Kool & The Gang opened for them too! 🎵🎶🔊
Hey Professor, it's nice to hear from young guys such as yourself who appreciate the best era of music!
10:46 I just fell in love with Steve Vai. I have always liked his music. At this point in the interview he reinforced everything I have learned since my friend died and left me his guitar. I can play anything, as long as I start slow, perfect the fingering, build speed, and never give up. My chances of reaching his skill level doubtful. He probably has 30 or 40 years of practice on me. I play everyday because, it makes my soul happy. I hope if I ever get to met Vai by then ill be good enough to back him upwith the rythm part. I feel so good right now, I'm gonna go practice till my fingers bleed.
Good video👌🏻. I love Sammy’s solo stuff, and he certainly added an element of the melodic to Van Halen, but it lost some rawness and grittiness from the David Lee Roth days
As usual another stellar video this time the subject of Dave vs. Sammy now I was 14 when started listening to Van Halen and of course wanted to be as cool as Diamond Dave! I graduated in 84 when everything went down and I didn't have a problem with Sammy because hell he rocked! I saw Van Halen with Dave and I saw them with Sammy both awesome shows and of course they were and are their own individual selves and they were both great shows!!! I'm like you Professor, we have been blessed to have the opportunity to listen to both frontmen and the genius of Edward Van Halen!!!!!
Well said, thank you for sharing!
Completely unrelated: but I love that Smiths T-shirt
Yes, I always check out which band shirt you have for the show.
I love it too, but the word 'unrelated' kind of gets another meaning there, lol. Could any two bands be further apart? (Well, same era at least.)
To be fair, the tee is the best part of this vid.
Eddie's best guitar work is on fair warning
I would say Eddies best work was on VH1 AND Fair Warning.
The first album for obvious reasons, Fair warning because it was the first album they had to work on from scratch as the other 3 albums had songs that were already there in one form or another, hence it was more dark . In my opinion
@@lloydmunga4961Hang me for this if you will, but I'd say after VH1 and Fair Warning, his strongest work was on VH3. The complexity of all those songs alone is worth something, I've NEVER seen anyone play Without You with the same swing that Eddie put into it
Dave said it best: “Sammy is the love guy.. but I AINT TALKIN BOUT LOVE”
“Feel Your Love Tonight”
“Outta Love Again”
“Woman In Love”
“So Is This Love”
“Why Can’t This Be Love”
“Love Walks In”
“When It’s Love”
“Can’t Stop Lovin’ You”
“Don’t Tell Me (What Love Can Do)
Ok.... one more than Roth.... I love both versions of the band.....
@@Bernz66 within context more of the Roth songs are about sex and being single vs hagars but I like the comparison! Thanks:)
@@Bernz66 You could add "Could This Be Magic" as well "Could this be magiiiiic? Or could this be loooooove??"
I love both Dave and Sam. I find the whole debate strange. My favorite Dave album is FAIR WARNING. My favorite Sam album is toss up between OU812 and 5150. Some might argue that Fair Warning is the greatest Van Halen album of all time. There is not a bad song on this record. It is definitely under rated. It fucking rocks hard.
Loved VH since I was a teenager in the 70s. Also been a Sammy fan since the first time I heard bad motor scooter. I thought Dave’s bravado was over the top but love his music. Sammy is a more versatile singer and brought a new depth to the band , they were great. VH made great music in both eras, I still love all of it. Sometimes I wanna rock to mean streets and sometimes dreams or Finnish what ya started is just what I need. RIP EVH. One of a kind.
Eddie said he never wanted to do or felt the need to do a solo album because he ALWAYS wrote what he wanted to write in the context of Van Halen. No matter who fronted the band. He was constantly experimenting and evolving, but the constant was....it was ALWAYS Eddie.
Van Halen III is Eddie’a solo album. He played nearly all of the bass, some of the drums, and even some of the lyrics. Cherone was living in Ed’s basement and Ed told him how to sing. Of course, that’s classic Eddie: tell the public VH III is a group effort when in private he’s ordering people around and being a drunken control freak. That’s how he escaped criticism.
'When The Hammer Falls' w/ Ed playing bass ... WOW!!! Very powerful!
That whole album too
Isn’t that insane - I love that so much - it goes to what Sammy has said about when he first met Eddie: “he was the most humble musician I ever met” - man I love that!
I loved Eddie as much as I imagined he was as a person as his music - They broke the mold with this guy.
"If Eddie composed it, I'll always listen." You damn right.
Van Halen with David Lee Roth defined my high school years, 1984 was a solid part of my life’s soundtrack back then. I was pretty torn when he left the band. I’ve been a huge fan of Sammy Hagar since his Montrose days, so when he joined Van Halen I was tickled! His contribution to Van Halen gave them a more mature sound that I still love to this day. Fortunately, I got to see Van Halen with Sammy for their Balance tour, it was one of the best concert experiences for me.
I've always said that I enjoyed both Sammy and Dave, but when forced into a corner, I'd have to give Dave the edge, mainly because of the showmanship, and the fact that he was the original. Lately, after Eddie's passing, I've thought about this more. To me, Eddie's inventiveness was never in question (apart from the low point Van Halen III) in either era. My oldest son, who has recently began to get into Van Halen, really digs the Sammy stuff because he is such an amazing vocalist. Sammy's lyrics are, on the whole, also more positive and uplifting. Now, I think I'm with the Professor. The eras are pretty evenly matched: just enjoy the entirety of what Eddie had to offer.
Well stated at 24:11; "If Eddie composed it, I'll ALWAYS listen". Genius is indeed genius. And that's just who and what Ed was, and will always be. Savant.
Yeah man Eddie was my hero. I still can't believe he's gone.
The sound track of my youth.
RIP Eddie
It was always about Eddie. Both eras had Eddie's guitar and that's all that matters.
The funny thing is nobody talks about how many cover songs were in the DLR era versus SH era
Yeah! And Eddie hated doing cover tunes for Van Halen.
What a great video. This is my first time finding this channel and it absolutely brought me back. I felt like I was listening to the Glory days of rolling Stone magazine put into video format. I am hooked and subscribed. Thanks for the great content.
Listened to Give To Live on the way home from work then I’m watching you talk to Sammy about it. That song holds up today and the words should be taken seriously especially what’s going on in the World.
Always liked VH but became a fan when the drummer for a band I was in in Ecuador in 95-96 was a HUGE fan of EVH and lent me all the albums. Much later, I became a major fan of Sammy and finally saw him at the Cabo Wabo back in 2015!
I love Black and Blue, such a great song !
Thank you Professor for the insightful passionate commentary. As a child of the 70s & 80s & beyond the VH & DLR music holds a fond place in my heart to this day. Thank you for this channel. Keep up the amazing work!
Dude would you ever cover the Brian Wilson’s smile story? Super interesting stuff, thanks for all you do, cheers!
Thank you for continuing to put out great content. RIP Eddie.
Van Halen with David Lee Roth is distinctly better than Van Hagar, VH w/Cherone, Roth solo, Hagar solo etc. The reason: original VH w/DLR was a groundbreaking guitar based rock n roll band. In particular, on Van Halen I & Fair Warning EVH’s guitar playing is absolutely unreal. EVH was in unchartered guitar territory during that era. The band was young and hungry. By the time Van Hagar came around Eddie was continuing on the keyboard road he started on 1984. The songs were more pop structured at that point. Not bad or anything just not as balls-out rocking guitar as it had once been. And Roth was the ultimate frontman in the 70’s thru the early 80’s.
What a great vid, and a great point that is being made here. The Dave - Sam thing is old now. The fact is.... both eras of Van Halen were unbelievable, and can not be eclipsed, really, by anybody. It is all part of "The Van Halen Era." And it's all magic. We, The Fans, won big on this one. What a band. Both versions. Unbelievable.
Last time i was this early she told me to take a pill
😂 oh man, that got me.
Took me a minute to figure it out.
Oh dude ..I almost didn't get it..
They have pills for that?
@@Lengsel7 man I really don't know , not a concern.... lol
as someone who saw both Diamond Dave and Sammy on their tour together, I found that both are fantastic in their own way.
Diamond Dave was the entertainer.
Sammy was the performer.
Both different yet made the VH band in their own way. It’s all subjective and there is no right answer.
I agree if Eddie wrote it I’ll listen.
Our timelines on Earth parallel, Professor. As I was a youngster, DLR was the Dude. My older bros were in bands. By the time 1984 came out, I knew all the lyrics before they did. I was 7. When Hagar joined Van seemed to coincide with the band maturing musically. So as a teen and young adult, the Sammy era lyrics got memorized too. Van Halen's music in any era stirs the soul! Thank You to Van Halen and Professor! Rock On!
One thing about Eddie that only occurred to me around the time of his death was that, in watching hours of concert footage of him from the early 80s up until the last times he appeared on stage with Dave, Wolfgang and Alex, Eddie always had a smile on his face and looked like he enjoyed performing for people. Some bands and artists who have been around for decades sometimes seem to hit the stage and are just there to cash a paycheck and make it through the show.
@ Scott Smith I've noticed that also Scott. There is an interview with him talkin about how he felt he was just messing around having fun on stage and how great it was to be able to preform for the fans doing what he loved! So smiling from ear to ear just comes naturally ☺️
There is NO debate. VH was an amazing band no matter the lead singer. Eddie was the star, and Alex super drummer.
The music with Dave is timeless and still sounds fresh and cool, while the vast majority of the Sammy stuff sounds dated.
I think it's the synthesizers. Those sounds were fresh and innovative at the time, but some of the sounds didn't age well. The VH albums before Diver Down had little to no synthesizers. They had guitars, bass, and drums. The essence of Rock music.
That’s the mark of great music. It never sounds dated lol.
great video, loved it all... had my VCR ready all the time and taped everything. I was 15 years old and just started playing guitar, such a great time to be starting out...
Couldn’t click fast enough
Adam, you get it...you ALWAYS get it. This is why I love your post. Thank you for this video.
If the original DLR lineup had stayed together for a few albums, they would have been legend.
i agree,i just cannot get past the original lineup,ive tried......just cannot feel it.guess the dave years were a better chapter in my life! just gotta be dave for me....ledgend.nothing against sammy......
Great commentary! Learned some things I never knew before! Subscribed!
You doing a great job as usual Professor. I would enjoy some METALLICA talk.
Thank you! Of course, I've got some in the line up stay tuned.
I miss Ed so much! His music will forever be a huge source of inspiration to me. I'll never forget the first time I heard Van Halen. I was only nine years old. It was December 1, 2010. I was walking downstairs that evening, shortly after dinner, and my eyes instantly shot towards the tv screen as the MTV video for "Jump" began to play. I couldn't believe the amazing synthesizer tone. I'd never heard anything like it and never really cared much for the instrument up to that point. I marveled at the sight of Mr. Van Halen; with his long hair, flashy, yellow and black striped shirt, and multicolored jeans. I was blown away by his guitar solo, and taken even more aback as he switched back to the synthesizer. Not only did I want to look like him, I also wished I could play like him. I'm sure I liked rock songs before that day, but it was then that I really began to realize exactly how much I appreciated the genre. The experience was so incredible to me that I wrote about it, hence why I remember the date. I found 1984 in my dad's collection of CDs months later, took it upstairs to my room, and played Jump over and over. Eddie's keyboard solo, never failing to give me goosebumps. I drove my sister nuts for months playing the album on repeat, gradually branching out from only listening to my favorite song. It was the first rock album I ever independently played repeatedly. While playing this album countless times, I began to realize little parts of the music that I hadn't noticed on previous listens, and I also began to appreciate how each instrument performed individually. A couple years later, my grandparents got me a keyboard for my twelfth birthday and I made it my mission to slowly learn Eddie's lead keyboard part on "Jump." His death hit me the hardest out of any musician so far. He's my favorite guitar player and he inspired me to play the keyboard. 1984 will always have a special place in my heart as the first album that really captivated me musically and got me into my favorite genre as an individual.
Steve: Anybody can do this if they just didn't give up
Me: *Pauses video to practice for 30 minutes*
My first rock concert was OU812. I never saw Diamond Dave in concert with or without Van Halen but I can tell you that the OU812 tour was phenomenal. I loved the energy and the vocals of the band. Yes, I think DLR is a powerhouse of a singer and has A LOT of great tunes! But Van Halen with Sammy was just as amazing (like I said I never saw Van Halen live with DLR) and I loved the concert. It was a rockin' fun time. So I vote that both DLR and Sammy are great with Van Halen. They each had their unique sound. I really do believe that since they had to replace DLR that Sammy was they absolute best choice. His voice is just as good as DLR (in my opinion).
Thanks for this video and the interview. I really enjoyed it. I also agree with you regarding Eddie. He was in a league of his own. Sad to see him go. Take care and stay safe everyone.
Sammy and Eddie, till the day I die!
I have never understood why BOTH eras aren't cherished? I love it all!! And now I am passing it on to my kids!