VAN HALEN
When flamboyant frontman David Lee Roth left the band, not many would’ve guessed that Van Halen would actually become bigger— but they have.
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When flamboyant frontman David Lee Roth left the band, not many would’ve guessed that Van Halen would actually become bigger— but they have. Adding veteran vocalist Sammy Hagar, VH’s 5150 became their first .#1 album and their biggest seller to date.
The secret? Much of it lies in the guitar work and songwriting of Eddie Van Halen, of course. The role model for scores of younger guitarists to follow, Van Halen’s technique and evocative playing have only gotten better. And the remaining members—rhythm sectioners Alex Van Halen and Michael Anthony—hold down the bottom as well as anyone in rock ’n’ roll.
Having put aside reports of their early demise, Van Halen can look forward to another banner year: in addition to Sammy Hagar’s solo LP (produced by Eddie himself), the guys will be working on the follow-up to 5150. It’ll be hard to top, but they’re just the rockers to do it.
