In a recent interview with Andy Greene from Rolling Stone magazine, Sammy Hagar discussed his exclusion from Alex Van Halen’s book “Brothers.” In the book, the VAN HALEN drummer claimed that the true essence of the band ended when David Lee Roth departed. Hagar expressed his sadness, saying he hadn’t read the entire book but had seen excerpts and interviews. He sympathized with Alex’s situation, considering the loss of his brother and his health issues, noting that Alex had been seen using a cane while promoting the book. Sammy mentioned that Alex’s condition made him understand why he wasn’t responding to invitations to perform together. He reflected on how it would feel if he couldn’t sing or perform anymore, an activity that defined his life and career, and expressed empathy for Alex.
Hagar also questioned why he was left out of the book and hoped for an explanation someday. He recognized that Alex might harbor some bitterness but felt that excluding him only reinforced his own connection to that era of VAN HALEN. Sammy and former VAN HALEN bassist Mike Anthony felt a responsibility to keep the band’s music alive for the fans. Hagar emphasized his desire to make peace with Alex, stating it was on his bucket list and that he had reached out through VAN HALEN manager Irving Azoff. He clarified he wasn’t looking to play in a band with Alex but wanted to rekindle their friendship.
Alex Van Halen had earlier explained his absence from “The Best Of All Worlds,” a tour focusing on VAN HALEN’s music, saying he was not interested and believed the current efforts didn’t do the band justice. His book largely ignored Hagar’s time with VAN HALEN, as well as Gary Cherone’s stint and the band’s reunion with Roth in 2007. Alex maintained that the band’s magic was in its early years with Roth, Eddie, Mike, and himself. Hagar attempted multiple times to connect with Alex about participating in “The Best Of All Worlds” but received no response. He speculated that Alex’s book deal might have restricted communication with him and Roth.
Despite his efforts to reach out to Alex through various means, including phone calls and messages, Hagar received no response. He expressed his willingness to involve Alex in the tour in any capacity but noted that the silence from Alex suggested a lack of interest. Hagar and Anthony decided to proceed with the tour to honor the VAN HALEN catalog, hoping that Alex might join them or at least mend their relationship, but received no indication of interest from Alex.
