Musical characteristics of VH

[AZfan]

Can anyone put in words a comparison of Van Halen's success back in the 70's when they first started and today? And what songs do you think Van Halen will be most remembered by. BTW, I'll be going to see Sammy and David next Friday in Phoenix, can't wait!

[jimmy]

I asked a friend who is a music director this same question a few years ago.

What was it like when VH hit it big?

He said there wasn't much to it. New band.....guitar playing that sounded like it was from antoher planet........really hard rock for kids........didn't sell a ton.....but well enough considering they were a "rock band"....

In his mind, VH didn't hit it big unitl 1984 and with Jump.

To us VH fans.....we were hooked the first time we heard that "backwards horn effect" on RWTD.

BTW AZFAN.........ever heard of The Refreshments and their singer Roger Clyne........I heard he's pretty big in AZ. They're my second favorite band.

[RayBan]

Me and my wife were talking about the Van Halen sound before the Sam and Dave show a couple weeks ago. The one thing I know is there are other great bands out there but a lot of them I have to be in a certain mood/frame of mind to really get into. Van Halen music is good for any day. Straight ahead kick ass rock and roll without any diversions.

[TheMightyCopenHalenII]

There is only one way I can describe VAN HALEN: THE EPITOME OF COOL...

The way they carried themselves, their musical stylings, and Eddies extraordinary songwriting.

They are multifaceted in delivering kickass music, no matter what type of mood you're in.

No question, VAN HALEN's initial success was huge in part a platinum debut album. But other than that, a lead singer and a guitarist that set the precedent for a decade around the corner.

During their successfull commercial run, which I consider from 1978-1995, VAN HALEN afforded no peers.

I'd hope they're remembered as a band of unfathomable as well as unmatched talent, that never sold out, and always delivered HONEST music.

[Lem Motlow]

Originally posted by AZfan:
And what songs do you think Van Halen will be most remembered by.

Most people- Jump
Me- Everybody Wants Some

[thinlineokc]

"Eruption" it set the bar for modern rock guitar.
Hey, that rhymes!

[ June 14, 2002, 08:54 AM: Message edited by: thinlineokc ]

[AZfan]

Jimmy, Yes, I know the Refreshments. They are big here. Also, I worked in Radio in Honolulu and they came there once I think on tour, where I met them. They are as big as the Gin Blossoms here in AZ.

You know, I've seen VH live twice: the first time in their 1984 tour (as a teen) and the second time with Gary Cherone (a few years ago). Big difference! I wish i could have seen them with Sammy. I agree with some posts about 1984 being their "claim to fame". But the 80's were all about big hair bands, and I think Dave fit into that. Not really the rest of the band or the music, but when he solo'd he did. He has a stronger voice than Sammy which helped for the hard rock sound.

[theodore templeman]

One word describes VH's success: belligerence (SP?)