Sammy Hagar from Marin discusses his biggest hit and why he didn’t harm Van Halen
Sammy Hagar has left a lasting mark on the rock music scene for more than fifty years. From his early days with Montrose in the 1970s to his time as the lead singer of Van Halen in the 1980s and early 90s, and his current role in the Cabo Wabo businesses, Hagar’s impact has been significant. Recently, Hagar performed at Stagecoach in California before heading to Las Vegas to start a residency at the Park MGM casino with his road band consisting of Joe Satriani, Kenny Aronoff, and Michael Anthony.
In a virtual interview from his home in Mill Valley, Hagar shared the stories behind five of his classic hits and a poignant new song dedicated to his late friend Eddie Van Halen. The first hit he discussed was Montrose’s “Rock Candy” from 1973. Hagar recounted how the song came about during a studio session when they needed one more track. Hagar improvised the lyrics on the spot, drawing inspiration from his favorite childhood treats. Despite its slow tempo, the song became iconic for its unique drum beat.
Hagar’s next hit, “I Can’t Drive 55,” was born out of frustration with a speeding ticket during a late-night drive. The lyrics came to him spontaneously after getting pulled over for speeding despite being unaware of the lower speed limit. The song became a commercial success for Hagar, surpassing all his previous work financially and resonating with listeners who identified with the frustration of driving at a restricted speed.
Hagar also shared insights into Van Halen’s hit “Why Can’t This Be Love” from 1986. He reflected on the band’s creative process and the challenges they faced in reinventing their sound. Despite the initial uncertainty about the track, it became a chart-topping hit and a fan favorite. Hagar’s involvement with Van Halen brought renewed success to the band and showcased a different side of their musical capabilities.
Throughout the interview, Hagar highlighted the personal and emotional connections he had with each song, emphasizing the authenticity and realness of his lyrics. From the spontaneity of “Rock Candy” to the frustration of “I Can’t Drive 55” and the creative evolution of “Why Can’t This Be Love,” Hagar’s storytelling and passion for music shone through. His ability to connect with listeners on a personal level and create music that resonates with diverse audiences has solidified his place in rock music history.