Sammy Hagar just clapped back at a fan who came in hot with the wrong info and the wrong tone… and let’s just say, Sammy didn’t need tequila to go full scorched earth.
A fan’s question suggested a parallel between Jason Bonham’s departure and Van Halen’s treatment of Gary Cherone. This prompted Hagar to explain the actual situation.
The fan asked: ‘Would have been worth being there if Jason Bonham would have been there. Why’d you pull a Van Halen on him?’
Hagar responded: ‘‘I’m not sure where you’re coming from on this. He had to leave the tour last summer. Kenny, he replaced him last minute. Jason schedule you’ll see he was in Europe. Wasn’t available for rehearsal or anything for the residency. He has other commitments Black country reunion has Led Zeppelin, etc..’
Hagar emphasized his different approach to handling lineup changes: ‘I’m sure him and I will play again sometime. We don’t have a problem and hopefully you don’t either. It would be wrong to just use Kenny and then throw him out! That’s what Van Halen did to Gary Cherone. It’s not the way I do things.’
The Gary Cherone comparison highlights a significant chapter in Van Halen’s history. Bonham’s current commitments demonstrate his active touring schedule.
Cherone’s history with Van Halen spans from 1996 to 1999. The former Extreme vocalist collaborated with the band on their 1998 album ‘Van Halen III.’ This marked a departure from their traditional sound. The partnership ended after Cherone’s departure, leading to several lineup changes.