In a recent conversation with Rolling Stone, Sammy Hagar shared insights into the complicated relationship with Alex Van Halen, the drummer of Van Halen. While Hagar and the late Eddie Van Halen reconciled their differences prior to Eddie’s passing, Sammy has found himself estranged from Alex, raising questions about the reasons behind their lack of communication. Hagar expressed his thoughts on the matter, suggesting that Alex’s silence might stem from deeper issues than simply past grievances.

Understanding the Rift: Sammy Hagar and Alex Van Halen’s Ongoing Estrangement

Despite the passing of Eddie Van Halen, the relationship between Sammy Hagar and Alex Van Halen remains notably distant. The two former bandmates have not communicated for over two decades, a fact that is particularly highlighted by Alex’s omission of Hagar’s name in his recent memoir. This prolonged silence raises the question: what has caused this enduring chill in their relationship?

During the interview, when the Rolling Stone reporter suggested that Hagar’s previous memoir may have contributed to the rift, Hagar proposed a different perspective. He indicated that the animosity might be linked to financial matters concerning Cabo Wabo, the tequila brand Hagar developed, which initially involved all members of Van Halen.

“I’ve had discussions with various people, including Irving Azoff, about what might be the issue. The consensus seems to be that there could be resentment regarding Cabo Wabo,” Hagar explained. He elaborated that when he took over the brand, which was losing money at the time, he transformed it into a lucrative business, generating hundreds of millions in revenue, which may have left Alex feeling slighted.

Hagar expressed disbelief that Alex could harbor resentment over his success, saying, “How could they be angry about that? They handed me the business, essentially abandoning it, and I was responsible for its financial revival.” He noted that he had to indemnify the band against potential lawsuits, highlighting the weight of the agreement he signed.

In 2024, Hagar reflected on their partnership with Cabo Wabo, revealing that it became a significant point of contention, leading to restrictions during their 2004 reunion tour. He was prohibited from wearing Cabo Wabo merchandise on stage, illustrating the tension surrounding the brand.

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“During that time, the Van Halen brothers seemed indifferent to my tequila business,” Hagar recounted in his book Red: My Uncensored Life in Rock. “However, by the time of the reunion, Cabo Wabo had gained immense popularity, and everywhere I went, people wanted to discuss it, which seemed to frustrate them immensely.”

Hagar also mentioned that the Van Halen brothers took extensive measures to prevent any mention of Cabo Wabo during performances. “They stipulated in our contract that I could not wear any Cabo Wabo apparel or even reference the brand while on stage,” he revealed.

In a reaction to their restrictions, Hagar humorously shared that he got a Cabo Wabo tattoo on his shoulder. While he tried to conceal it during rehearsals, it became visible on large screens during live performances, a moment that added to the complexity of his relationship with the band.

Regarding the potential impact of his memoir, Hagar stated, “Yes, the book has come up in discussions. I aimed for honesty, and it was well-known that Eddie was struggling during that tour. However, I don’t want to dwell on the past or bring Eddie’s legacy into disrepute; that’s just behind us now.”

Exploring Potential Reasons Behind Alex Van Halen’s Ongoing Silence with Sammy Hagar

Hagar also speculated on another reason for Alex’s silence, stating, “I believe Al is upset because I continue to perform while he cannot. Mike and I are still actively touring, whereas Alex, who isn’t a vocalist or songwriter, seems unable to pursue new projects. He was primarily the drummer, with Eddie and I contributing to the songwriting process, allowing us to continue performing.”

“It must be frustrating for him to watch Mike and me still thriving in the music scene,” Hagar continued. “If I were in his position, I would feel a sense of loss not being able to engage in something I love. However, I find joy in my life and career, which might be irritating for some.”

He concluded his thoughts on the matter with a sense of acceptance, stating, “I’m at peace with the situation. Al, you’re doing fine. Just let me be, and I will let you be. We’re both okay. Interestingly, I’m still contributing to the Van Halen legacy; I’m out there promoting their records and keeping the music alive for the fans.”

The Significance of Dreams: Sammy Hagar’s Reflections on Alex Van Halen

While Sammy Hagar’s recent track “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight” was inspired by dreams about Eddie Van Halen, he revealed that he has also had dreams about Alex Van Halen. “I hate to admit it, but I had a vivid dream about Alex recently,” Hagar shared. “It felt so incredibly real, and I found myself questioning him about his anger towards me. I asked him directly what the issue was.”

Hagar recounted that in his dream, Alex responded with laughter. “It was a bit of a friendly laugh,” Hagar noted. “He said to me, ‘You really don’t know, do you?’ To which I responded, ‘No, I genuinely don’t.’ It turned into a sort of game where he suggested we flip a coin; if it landed on heads, he would tell me, but if it landed on tails, I’d have to suffer the mystery. It was quite an intense and realistic dream experience.”