David Lee Roth Reveals Drama Between Brothers Eddie and Alex Van Halen

Music journalist Mitch Lafon recently shared an early interview with David Lee Roth discussing his experience with Van Halen.

In the video, Roth candidly spoke about the drama within the band, particularly between brothers Eddie and Alex Van Halen. He said:

“It’s early in the morning. Not for me, I haven’t been to sleep since the late 80s, which is a very Dutch thing to say. Okay, that kind of sense of humor is Jan Van Halen, Mr. Van Halen. The brothers and I never got along.”

Roth elaborated on the frequent arguments and debates within the band:

“The sparks from that collision, [imitates an explosion]. That kind of thing, that’s running with the devil. ‘No you, you man, how could you? You should have… [explosion].’ ‘I Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love’ [explosion]. ‘Look at her, she’s f*cking crying again.’ But Jamie’s always cried [explosion]. ‘You’re late.’ ‘I’m not late. I’m early!’ ‘But you [explosion].’ That’s Van Halen.”

Roth Reflects on Tension Within Van Halen

Reflecting on his time with Van Halen, Roth discussed his relationship with Eddie and Alex Van Halen during a 2019 interview on the WTF With Marc Maron podcast. He admitted that they never got along, from the beginning until his exit.

“We have always hated each other, right up until the last phone call. There were always creative differences. We’ve never gotten along. We started in rival bands. Bitter rivals. But we were thrown together, and it was amazing. Think of your favorite jeans; they’re ruined and full of holes. What you love most about them are the f*cked up parts.”

Roth noted that their creative differences often caused tension, but despite their rivalry, they managed to find success together. Their tumultuous relationship was a significant aspect of the band’s dynamic, contributing to both their conflicts and their creative output.