It’s said there are two types of Van Halen fans: those who prefer original vocalist David Lee Roth, and those favoring the band’s tenure with the Red Rocker, Sammy Hagar. Unfortunately, that binary approach neglects the times when both men have (sort of) played nice—see 2002’s “Song For Song: The Heavyweight Champs Of Rock And Roll” dual solo tour, which covered all eras of the band—as well as VH’s other lead vocalist: Extreme’s Gary Cherone, who took the reins for 1998’s Van Halen III and subsequent tour dates. Each iteration of the band has its pluses and minuses, of course: Roth’s charisma and charm make up for any vocal shortcomings; Hagar’s a more traditional rock ’n’ roll belter; and Cherone brought a snarling, aggressive edge to the band. With DLR’s relationship with VH rumored to be on shaky ground—see the recent solo tune “Ain’t No Christmas,” a morose breakup song, which he’s said is about the band—all bets are off as to who might be shrieking “Runnin’ With The Devil” on future tours. [Annie Zaleski]
