Sammy Hagar & Michael Anthony Not Invited to Alex Van Halen’s New Project With Steve Lukathe

In a recent conversation with Rock Of Nations With Dave Kinchen And Shane McEachern, former Van Halen members Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony addressed speculation surrounding a new archival album being assembled by drummer Alex Van Halen, in collaboration with Steve Lukather.

A Project Rooted in Unfinished History

The album traces back to material that Alex and his late brother Eddie Van Halen were developing as a follow-up to Van Halen’s final studio work before Eddie’s death in 2020. According to Alex, the recordings already contain completed drum, guitar, and bass parts, much of the latter reportedly performed by Wolfgang Van Halen. What remains unresolved is the vocal component, along with final structural touches.

Hagar and Anthony Left on the Sidelines

Asked whether they had been invited to contribute, Hagar confirmed that neither he nor Anthony has been approached. He expressed disappointment, noting that Van Halen’s creative process historically involved extensive studio jams that yielded a deep archive of usable material featuring all four classic members. While acknowledging Alex’s right to steer the project as he sees fit, Hagar suggested the endeavor feels more like a personal Alex Van Halen release than a full-fledged Van Halen reunion.

Anthony echoed the sentiment, saying he would be open to participating if the material originated from sessions he was part of. He has also previously suggested that an instrumental release might be the most respectful way forward, keeping the focus squarely on Eddie’s guitar legacy rather than introducing new vocals.

Lukather’s Role and the Search for a Voice

Alex has described Lukather as a crucial creative partner—someone capable of shaping and organizing unfinished ideas with speed and sensitivity. While early reports fueled speculation that Lukather might play guitar on the record, he later clarified that his role is strictly behind the scenes, assisting as a collaborator or co-producer out of respect for Eddie’s singular style.

As for vocals, Alex revealed that Paul Rodgers was once considered a top choice, though the veteran singer ultimately declined. The search continues, with Alex emphasizing the importance of finding someone from a similar musical generation who shares the same lived experience and depth.

Honoring Eddie’s Legacy

Alex has stressed that the goal is not simply to release unreleased demos, but to complete the music at a level that matches the band’s historical standards. He pointed to “Unfinished,” the final piece he and Eddie worked on together—released alongside Alex’s memoir Brothers—as an example of how powerful incomplete music can be when handled thoughtfully.

For now, the project remains a work in progress, shaped by reverence for Eddie Van Halen’s impact and a desire to present the material with care. Whether it ultimately features vocals or stands as an instrumental tribute, Alex insists the intention is singular: to let the music reach its fullest potential and honor the legacy left behind.