Biography of the Rock and Roll Artist Sammy Hagar

Sammy Hagar, born Samuel Roy Hagar in October 1947, is an American rock vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, musician, and entrepreneur. He is best known as the lead singer of Van Halen from 1985 to 1996 and again in 2004/2005. He is also known for his solo career with hits like “I Can’t Drive 55”. In addition to his solo career, he has also formed numerous supergroups like Montrose and Chickenfoot. Hagar is also an entrepreneur who owns restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and a tequila brand.

Early Career

Hagar grew up in Fontana, California where he began playing guitar at age 11. He dropped out of school at age 15 to focus on music full-time. His first band was called the Fabulous Castiles which he joined in 1964. The band released one single that failed to chart before disbanding in 1966. Hagar then joined the group Johnny Fortune which released two albums before breaking up in 1970.

The Montrose Years

Hagar then joined a new band called Montrose which was formed by former Vanilla Fudge bassist Ronnie Montrose. The band released two albums before breaking up in 1977. During this time Hagar also released two solo albums that were moderately successful.

The Van Halen Years

In 1985, Hagar was chosen as the replacement for departing frontman David Lee Roth. He joined the legendary band Van Halen and recorded four studio albums with them between 1986 and 1991. During this time he wrote some of their most popular songs including “Right Now” and “Why Can’t This Be Love?” The band also recorded two live albums during this time. In 1996, Hagar left the band after a dispute with guitarist Eddie Van Halen.

Solo Career and Supergroups

Hagar then returned to his solo career releasing four studio albums between 1997 and 2002. During this time he also formed supergroups like Chickenfoot with Joe Satriani, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Michael Anthony of Van Halen. He also reformed Montrose in 2003 with original members Ronnie Montrose and Denny Carmassi along with new members Eric Singer and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top.

Recent Activities

Hagar continues to tour with his solo band The Circle featuring bassist Michael Anthony of Van Halen fame as well as his son Aaron Hagar on guitar. He also continues to own and operate several businesses including Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico in addition to his tequila brand Cabo Wabo Tequila. Sammy Hagar remains one of the most iconic figures in rock music today.