In a new video shared on their Van Hagar / Other Half Instagram account, Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar reminisced about the iconic Van Halen era surrounding the album 5150. The two musicians reflected on the significant changes the band underwent during that time, particularly the transition after David Lee Roth’s departure.
Anthony began by recalling the tense period before 5150, saying, “‘5150,’ what a time. Ed, Al, and myself just coming out of a bad breakup with Roth leaving the band.” He continued, “And Sammy steps in. First time he came to the studio with short hair.”
The bassist went on to explain how the band had already worked on some songs before Hagar joined. “Ed, Al, and I had worked up a couple songs already,” Anthony shared. “After hanging out a little bit, we decided to play some of it. Sammy heard part of the song and came out to jam it with us. He sang lyrics right out of his head for the song.”
Reflecting on the chemistry in the studio, Anthony said, “We just had a great time in the studio. It was like a rebirth for the band after all the tensions and everything leading up to Roth leaving. It was like a breath of fresh air.”
From Hagar’s perspective, the 5150 sessions felt almost like a honeymoon period for the band. “Making ‘5150’ was like we were on a honeymoon,” Hagar shared, highlighting the positive and creative atmosphere that marked the band’s transition.
The 5150 era represented a pivotal moment in Van Halen‘s history. It not only marked a major change in the band’s lineup but also brought a shift in their musical direction, one that would define their sound in the years to come.
