Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth, both lead singers of Van Halen at different times, have never gotten along. Roth was the original singer from the late 1970s until 1985, then Hagar came in right after and helped push the band into more chart-topping hits. They toured together in 2002, but it didn’t go well.
Hagar said Roth was difficult to work with, often canceling shows without notice. Since then, the two have taken jabs at each other in interviews and rarely speak positively about the other. Despite the drama, both helped shape Van Halen into one of the biggest rock bands ever.
David Lee Roth’s setlist is entirely made up of Van Halen’s songs
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On May 3, 2025, Roth returned to the stage for the first time in five years. He performed at the M3 Rock Festival in Maryland, and his full set was made up of only Van Halen songs from his time with the band. That includes classics like “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” “Unchained,” and “Hot for Teacher.” Roth’s tour continues with shows across the U.S. this summer. He’s set to appear in Atlantic City and Huntington, among others.
At the same time, Hagar is finishing his “Best of All Worlds” residency in Las Vegas. His show includes songs from his Van Halen years, as well as tracks from Montrose, Chickenfoot, and his solo albums. He’s joined by Joe Satriani on guitar, Michael Anthony on bass, and Kenny Aronoff on drums.
Sammy Hagar reacts to fans’ comparison of both Van Halen singers
With both singers back on tour, fans have been comparing their shows. One fan sparked a discussion on Instagram, asking which Van Halen frontman sounds better today. Hagar replied directly, saying both men played a part in making Van Halen what it was.
He said that comparing them now or even back then misses the bigger picture. What matters is the music. Hagar said Roth is doing what he can with his songs, just like he is doing with his own. He made it clear he was happy Roth is still out there performing. He also said fans should enjoy the music from both eras, that is what really counts.