Sammy Hagar Wanted to Break David Lee Roth’s ‘F—–‘ Neck’ When He Disappointed Fans at Shows

Sammy Hagar, the legendary rock musician, recently shared his candid thoughts and emotions in an interview with Rolling Stone. The former Van Halen frontman didn’t hold back when discussing his tumultuous relationship with David Lee Roth, revealing that there were moments when he wanted to “break” Roth’s neck. Hagar, known as “The Red Rocker,” expressed his frustration at Roth’s behaviour during their joint tour in 2002, where Roth allegedly cancelled shows last minute, leaving fans disappointed.

The tensions between Hagar and Roth seemed to stem from Roth’s alleged attempts to upstage Hagar during their performances. Hagar recalled instances where Roth would claim last-minute issues, such as a broken-down bus, right before going on stage. Despite the challenges, Hagar always prioritised his fans and took the stage to deliver memorable performances. However, the strain of dealing with Roth’s actions took a toll on Hagar, leading him to express his anger in no uncertain terms.

In the interview, Hagar didn’t shy away from criticising Roth’s performance style, claiming that Roth struggled to connect with the audience compared to Hagar’s dynamic stage presence. Hagar believed that Roth’s focus on recreating past Van Halen performances instead of showcasing his solo artistry was a missed opportunity. Reflecting on his own solo career before Van Halen, Hagar acknowledged the challenges of transitioning from a band to a solo artist, a journey that he navigated successfully.

Aside from his rocky relationship with Roth, Hagar also addressed his long-standing feud with Alex Van Halen, the band’s drummer. Hagar revealed that he hasn’t spoken to Alex in over two decades, citing differences in musical direction and personal conflicts as reasons for their estrangement. Hagar’s comments shed light on the complexities and tensions that can arise within legendary rock bands, highlighting the human side of fame and creative partnerships.

As Hagar shared his perspectives on past conflicts and challenges, he also expressed gratitude for the opportunities and successes he has experienced throughout his career. Despite the ups and downs, Hagar remains focused on his music and connection with his fans, prioritising authenticity and passion in his performances. Hagar’s honesty and transparency in the interview offer a glimpse into the inner workings of the music industry and the personal struggles that artists face behind the scenes.

While Roth and Alex Van Halen have yet to respond to Hagar’s recent revelations, the interview has sparked discussions among fans and critics alike. Hagar’s willingness to address difficult topics and confront past grievances demonstrates his commitment to honesty and integrity in his craft. As Hagar continues to evolve as an artist and a public figure, his journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of creative collaborations and the enduring power of music to transcend conflicts and connect people across generations.