Sammy Hagar

Having experimented with a few different bands during high school, Hagar became involved with hard rock band Montrose in 1973 as they released their debut and second album. Although the debut album wasn’t a major success in their home territory, it struck a chord across the pond and saw the band’s popularity sky rocket. During his time in Montrose, Hagar wrote his first song “Bad Motor Scooter” which featured on the first album.

Two years later Hagar parted ways with Montrose and focussed on his solo career and in 1976 released his debut album “Nine on a Ten Scale” through Capitol Records. The album featured tracks penned by Van Morrison and Fleetwood Mac’s Bob Welch and contained songs like “Keep on Rockin’”, “China” and “Flamingos Fly”. Under the wings of A&R man and producer Carter, Hagar released three more studio albums with Capitol until contrasting creative differences saw him part ways with the label.

Moving to new label Geffen saw Hagar achieve major success with the release of his 1982 album “Standing Hampton” which featured the hit singles “There’s Only One to Rock” and “I Can’t Drive 55” which would become his signature tunes. The album peaked at number 28 in the US charts and certified platinum.

More success would follow as he joined Van Halen line up in 1985 and the release of their seventh album “5150” the following year saw the band storm the charts as it went platinum six times over. The next three album releases would see the band clinch the number one spot again and again.

As no stranger to forming super-groups such as HSAS and Los Tres Gusanas, in 2008 Hagar along with Van Halen’s bassist Michael Anthony, joined forces with Red Hot Chilli Peppers drummer Chad Smith and guitar genius Joe Satriani formed Chickenfoot.

Not content with being a seasoned rock star, Hagar has turned his hand at other ventures with his own nightclub, bar and restaurant, producing his own tequila and rum spirits and on top of all that owns one of the most successful mountain bike shops in California. A true rocker through and through, Sammy Hagar’s legacy lives on.