Full Breakdown
Sammy Hagar Declares He Will Never Reunite with Alex Van Halen
3/13/2026, 12:12:58 PM
Longstanding Feud Resurfaces
Sammy Hagar has publicly reaffirmed his stance on never performing with Alex Van Halen again, citing a deep-seated animosity that has persisted for over two decades. In a recent interview with Classic Rock, Hagar compared his relationship with Alex to the infamous rivalry between Pink Floyd members Roger Waters and David Gilmour, stating, “I feel that way about Alex Van Halen. They’re negative people.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing tensions that have characterized their relationship since Hagar's departure from Van Halen in 2005.
Reasons Behind the Rift
Hagar speculated that Alex's resentment may stem from his own continued success in the music industry, particularly as he and former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony continue to perform together. Hagar noted, “Alex isn’t a singer. He’s not a guitar player. He is not really a band leader,” suggesting that Alex's inability to perform or create new music could be a source of frustration for him. Hagar expressed empathy for Alex, stating, “If I put myself in his shoes, I would feel terrible if I couldn’t do it anymore.”
Alex Van Halen's Silence
Despite the ongoing feud, Alex Van Halen has remained largely silent on the matter, even omitting Hagar from his 2024 memoir, "Brothers." The memoir focuses on his relationship with his late brother, Eddie Van Halen, who passed away in 2020. Hagar interpreted this omission as a diplomatic move, indicating that Alex may prefer to avoid confrontation.
Official Statements & Responses
Hagar reflected on his reconciliation with Eddie Van Halen prior to his death, emphasizing the importance of their final conversations. He stated, “To be able to have talked to Eddie and have a wonderful rapport with him on text, it means everything to me.” This reconciliation has allowed Hagar to embrace his legacy with Van Halen more comfortably, as he continues to perform their classic songs.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Hagar's comments argue that his comparison to Pink Floyd's dynamic may be exaggerated, as it simplifies the complexities of their relationship. Some fans believe that Hagar's focus on past grievances detracts from the legacy of Van Halen and the contributions of all its members.
What's Next for Van Halen's Legacy
Amidst the ongoing tensions, Alex Van Halen has proposed the possibility of a final Van Halen album, which he hopes to create with guitarist Steve Lukather. This project, however, appears to exclude both Hagar and David Lee Roth, further highlighting the divisions within the band. As discussions about honoring Eddie Van Halen's legacy continue, the future of the band's music remains uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I feel that way about Alex Van Halen. They’re negative people.” — Sammy Hagar, Musician
- “He was the drummer. Eddie and I wrote the songs. Dave [Lee Roth] and Eddie wrote the songs, and so we can go out and do them. And I think that really bothers him that Mike and I are still out there doing it. I would feel bad. If I put myself in his shoes, I would feel terrible if I couldn’t do it anymore.” — Sammy Hagar, Musician
- “To be able to have talked to Eddie and have a wonderful rapport with him on text, it means everything to me," Hagar shared.” — Sammy Hagar, Musician
