The Van Halen News Desk Reaches Out to David Lee Roth Regarding Tribute Tour Amid COVID-19 Concerns

The Van Halen News Desk recently caught up with David Lee Roth to get his take on the swirling rumors surrounding a potential tribute tour for the iconic rock band Van Halen. In light of the ongoing COVID-19 situation, Roth shared insights into his thoughts, indicating that the tour might call for a unique approach.

COVID-19 Considerations: Two Performers for Each Position

Roth highlighted the need for careful planning in the current pandemic landscape. He suggested that, in the era of COVID-19, a “Van Halen 4k” tribute tour would involve pairing two performers for every position within the band. This precautionary measure aims to ensure both safety and the ability to deliver a top-notch performance.

Roth’s Vision: Names in Consideration

As discussions revolve around this potential tour, Roth revealed a list of names that have crossed his mind for these paired positions. Notably, he pondered the possibility of Toto guitarist Steve Lukather stepping in to replace Satriani, while Michael Anthony could potentially take the place of Newsted. For the drumming role, Roth suggested the idea of teaming up Mötley Crüe’s Tommy Lee with Alex Van Halen. In a surprising twist, Roth proposed that the only singer he envisions capable of handling the task would be Pink.

Former Metallica Bassist’s Involvement Sparks Speculation

The buzz surrounding a Van Halen tribute tour gained traction following a revelation by former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted. Newsted disclosed to The Palm Beach Post that he had been invited to California for a jam session with Alex Van Halen and Joe Satriani. While initially intrigued by the opportunity, Newsted eventually decided to decline, expressing doubts about being able to do justice to the band’s illustrious legacy.

Joe Satriani’s Enthusiasm and Deliberation

Further adding to the intrigue, Joe Satriani, during an engaging conversation on the Rock of Nations With Dave Kinchen podcast, divulged his ongoing discussions with Alex Van Halen and David Lee Roth regarding the tribute tour concept. Satriani acknowledged the challenge posed by honoring the Van Halen legacy on the road but conveyed his willingness to embrace this demanding endeavor. While expressing enthusiasm for the potential tour, Satriani remained cautious about confirming any concrete plans.

David Lee Roth’s Perspective on the Rumors

The Van Halen tribute tour rumors continue to circulate, with various key players sharing their perspectives. Roth’s stance emphasizes the necessity of adaptability in the face of COVID-19, hinting at a distinctive approach that involves pairing performers for each role. While the tour’s feasibility remains to be seen, Roth’s contemplation of potential candidates offers fans a glimpse into the creative considerations at play.

In Roth’s own words, “In my mind, ‘Van Halen 4k,’ in the age of COVID, is going to require two of us for every position. Satriani and Lukather, Anthony and Newsted, Al or Tommy Lee. Probably the only one who could do my job today would be Pink.” As the music world watches and waits, the possibility of a Van Halen tribute tour continues to captivate fans and musicians alike.