Michael Anthony Reveals He Hasn’t Talked To David Lee Roth For A Long Time
via Jeremy White / Youtube
Michael Anthony recently discussed his current relationship with former Van Halen bandmate David Lee Roth in a video posted online. He revealed that they haven’t spoken in quite some time, with their last conversation revolving around a potential reunion tour featuring Joe Satriani as the guitarist.
Despite their lack of communication, Anthony harbors no ill will towards Roth, acknowledging his eccentric personality. He even expressed openness to jamming with Roth again in the future. The bassist said:
“If the chance ever came up or whatever, I would definitely be willing to jam with him.
“In fact, I think the last time he did his last [residency] shows at the House of Blues in Vegas some years back. I was actually gonna come to one of those shows and surprise him and come up and jump on stage, but, unfortunately, we were playing a gig somewhere else — Sammy [Hagar] and I were.”
Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony Team Up for Van Halen-Centric Tour
Michael Anthony’s bond with Van Halen’s other frontman, Sammy Hagar, remains strong, as evidenced by their collaboration in projects like Chickenfoot and the Circle. This summer, they’re teaming up with Joe Satriani and Jason Bonham for the Best of All World tour, dedicated to Van Halen’s music.
Reflecting on their decision to embark on the tour, Anthony shared that it has been 20 years since they did the last Van Halen reunion. He and Sammy, reminiscing the old days, are having some thoughts and talking about it. The bassist added:
“Gosh, 20 years.’ And who knows what’s happening now? We obviously can’t wait much longer. Sammy’s an old man now. But we didn’t wanna wait any longer. And with Ed [Van Halen], unfortunately, passing away the other year. And Alex, he’s still pretty much — I know he still grieves and stuff like that. And he doesn’t really get out; he doesn’t get out and play. And so Sammy and I wanted to get the music out to everybody. And we thought what a better way… Let’s get together and take it and play it. Someone’s gotta play it.”
