The Red Rocker Shines On
Part Two - The Epic Journey of Mont Hagen...
Sammy Hagar is one of the greatest rock vocalists of the 20th Century. Period! I will argue that point with anyone. His record stands on its own. Whether it is “Rock Candy” in Montrose, “Why Can’t This Be Love” with Van Halen, or “Can’t Drive 55"/"Heavy Metal” in his solo career, his voice is unmistakable in everything he does.
In 1973, when he first hit the scene with Ronnie Montrose, the combination of Ronnie’s slammin' guitar riffs along with Sammy's high intensity vocals made for a classic album which has stood the test of time.
His solo career took off during the US bi-centennial year, 1976. Hagar enjoyed hits such as "Heavy Metal," "Three Lock Box," and perhaps his best-known song "I Can't Drive 55" -- a gripe against the federally imposed speed limit of 55 mph on U.S. highways.
Remember his album HSAS? Some of the artists featured were Neal Schon from the band Journey, Kenny Aaronson (who played with almost all the touring bands and started with Rick Derringer), Aaronson Shrieve formerly of Foghat, and Santana’s drummer Michael Shrieve. One song in particular, a cover of "Whiter Shade of Pale" received some airplay peaking at #94 on the Billboard Pop 100 Singles chart. Not too shabby of an album as I remember.
From 1985-1996, Hagar played with the Van Halen brothers -- one of the biggest and baddest acts of rock legend, thanks to Eddie’s incredible axmen skills and Alex superb double kick drum THUMPS! Anthony could play a little bass as well and still has a great backup voice. 5150, OU812, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge, and Balance were the albums cut during Hagar’s time with the band. When I first heard the rumor they had joined, I thought the band should be call Van Hagar, but they didn’t listen to Thump’s advice.
I saw Sammy Hagar at Deer Creek (Verizon-branded outdoor venue) near Indy not too long ago. The dude can still rock and keep his tequila down. This tour has a good video out that I saw on HDNet. It was definitely a party every night for Sammy. I hope his liver can survive.
Chicken Foot
Sammy started a new group in 2008 called "Chickenfoot," which includes none other than the god of guitars, (sorry to that guy that did Layla) Joe Satriani, also Michael Anthony, and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith. This is a really good album that should be in any rockers collection. The track "Sexy Little Thing" is one of my picks. Nice guitar lick Joe, but I wouldn't expect any less from you. We should talk...Give me a call.
Joe's growl coming out of his Ibenez is outstanding. There are some tones that are new to me, and many that are like his "Surfing With the Aliens" album. Of course this is a mainstay album for any guitarist.
Hot Rod Sammy
Sammy the “Red Rocker” also has been known to have some fast classic cars. He sold a very nice red Mustang 1967 Shelby GT500 for $250,000, which was far less than the $400K value. It looks like he is spending money on all kinds of racing teams. I am sure that would be fun.
Cabo Wabo
Then there is tequila… It is reported that Sammy recently sold a major portion (80%) of his tequila label, Cabo Wabo, for $80 million clams… not bad for drinking on stage to promote your own label. He had a bar set up on his last tour on the stage. It was tough to see the standards of the bartenders mixing his Cabo Wabo margaritas.
All in all Sammy, is a lucky little money machine with a humble and entertaining persona on stage. It is good to see him still rocking.
Now before I go... here's another Hot Guitar Chick Woman for you guys out there. If we get more female Klipsch fans, I will have to start having Amy post some hunks. Let's hear it ladies!
