Sammy Hagar responds to David Lee Roth’s Van Halen performance on tour.

Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth, former bandmates in Van Halen, have had a long-standing rivalry, but Hagar is choosing to take the high road when it comes to Roth’s current solo tour.

Roth made his return to the stage at the M3 Rock Festival on May 3, marking his first performance since 2020. His setlist comprised entirely of Van Halen songs, while Hagar is in the final stages of his “Best of All Worlds” Las Vegas residency, which pays homage to his time with the iconic band. The simultaneous onstage performances of both Van Halen vocalists sparked a debate on social media regarding who is delivering the better show, leading to Hagar sharing his thoughts on Instagram.

The Red Rocker expressed that comparing their performances past and present is not the focus, emphasizing that Van Halen as a band and their timeless rock anthems are what truly matter. Hagar acknowledged their shared history with the band, recognizing both the positives and negatives of their time in Van Halen. Despite their differences, he extended support to Roth for carrying on and performing those rock classics that hold a special place in music history. Hagar also emphasized the importance of each of them supporting their respective eras, signifying his commitment to his solo projects and future endeavors.

In a show of unity and appreciation for the music they created together, Hagar highlighted the significance of keeping the musical legacy of Van Halen alive. He praised Roth for upholding that legacy through his solo tour and expressed his gratitude for the music they, along with legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen, crafted together, ending his comment with a gracious “encore thank you” and bidding the audience good night.

The mutual respect showcased by Hagar towards Roth’s solo endeavors and dedication to preserving the timeless music they created with Van Halen is a testament to their shared history and the impact their work has had on rock music. While maintaining their individual paths, both vocalists continue to contribute to the rich musical tapestry they helped create, ensuring that the spirit of Van Halen lives on through their performances and commitment to their craft.