The legendary guitar skills of Sammy Hagar shine brightly in his forthcoming single, titled “Encore. Thank You. Goodnight.” This track is said to be divinely inspired, particularly for those who regard the late Eddie Van Halen as the ultimate guitar hero of all time. As a former bandmate, Hagar’s connection to Van Halen adds a profound emotional layer to the music, stirring nostalgia and admiration among fans of both artists.
Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his life, Hagar recounted a vivid dream he had about two months ago, where he encountered Eddie in a familiar setting surrounded by friends. In an interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, he described this experience as if Van Halen had merely stepped out of his life for some time, rather than having passed away. “He’s going, ‘Man, let’s write some music!’ I said, ‘Yeah, f–k it, man. Here, let’s go!’” This dream encapsulates the enduring bond between the two musicians and the creative spark that Hagar felt during this surreal encounter.
Hagar painted a poignant picture of his dream, recalling a moment where he and Van Halen were huddled together. He reminisced about the guitar virtuoso, who tragically passed away in October 2020 due to complications from throat cancer at the age of 65. Hagar described the experience of watching Van Halen play a melody that echoed the very last lick he had learned from him during their reunion tour. “I said, ‘Eddie, show me your newest s–t,’ because every time I’d be around him I’d say, ‘Show me your newest s–t.’ He’d say, ‘Oh, check this out!’” This exchange highlights the mentorship and friendship that existed between the two rock legends.
Within the dream, Hagar recalled that Van Halen introduced him to an innovative harmonic technique, sliding up to a chord reminiscent of a slide guitar performance. Inspired by this moment, they collaboratively crafted a song using that very lick. The following morning, Hagar awoke with a sense of urgency and creativity, leading him to write the new track, which he aptly titled “Thank You.” The name reflects the profound gratitude he feels for the inspiration drawn from Eddie, acknowledging the legacy left behind by his late friend.
Although the composition was completed too late to make it onto Hagar’s 2022 album Crazy Times with his band, The Circle, he expressed his excitement on Instagram about sharing his heartfelt tribute to Van Halen. Hagar, who served as the lead vocalist for Van Halen from 1985 to 1996 and again from 2003 to 2005, has had his share of ups and downs in his relationship with Eddie, much like original VH singer David Lee Roth. “I can’t wait for the world to hear this very special song Joe [Satriani] and I wrote as a long overdue thank you to Eddie Van Halen for the music, the good times, and the dream that inspired this track, ‘Encore, Thank You, Goodnight.’” This anticipation reflects not only his personal journey but also the collective yearning of fans to celebrate Van Halen’s legacy.
The post elaborates on the song, which also features renowned guitarist Joe Satriani, acclaimed drummer Kenny Aronoff, and former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony. Hagar describes the track as a creation inspired by a dream, ultimately brought to life through introspective lyrics, powerful chords, and dynamic rhythms from the guitar and drums. The collaboration of these legendary musicians adds an extra layer of depth and intricacy, making it a significant tribute to the rock genre and Eddie Van Halen’s enduring influence.
