This series is dedicated to classic Rock & Roll, circa 70's
and 80's. This coincides with my misspent teenage years, and was
the music that first 'spoke' to me. I hope that others may feel the
same nostalgia as I did conceiving this series, and that it makes
for an interesting and informative cache experience. Please click
on the 'Hint' for a lyrical clue.
Van Halen is a hard rock band formed in Pasadena, California in
1972. They have sold more than 90 million albums worldwide and have
had the most number one hits on the Billboard Mainstream Rock
chart. During the 1980s they also had more Billboard Top100 hits
than any other hard rock or heavy metal band. According to the
Recording Industry Association of America, Van Halen is the 20th
best selling band/artist of all time with sales of over 56 million
albums in the USA and is one of five rock bands that have had two
albums sell more than 10 million copies in the USA alone.
The co-founder and instrumental lynchpin of the group is Edward
'Eddie' Van Halen. Van Halen is widely known for his rapid guitar
playing, tapping, and high frequency feedback. The All Music Guide
has called him "undoubtedly one of the most influential, original,
and talented rock guitarists of the 20th century." His brother Alex
Van Halen was the other founding member, and has been the only
drummer since the bands inception. Rounding out the rhythm section
was Michael Anthony on the bass.
Van Halen has had two vocalists of note. David Lee Roth was the
frontman from 1978 - 1984, and sang on the first 6 albums ...
sometimes referred to as classic Van Halen. He is a wildly
charismatic performer, and one of the most flamboyant frontmen in
rock history. After he left in a dispute with Van Halen, they
searched for a new lead singer and found Sammy Hagar. Hagar was
already an accomplished musician and was with the band from
1985-1996. In his time with Van Halen they enjoyed unprecedented
commercial success and widespread praise.