Artist Spotlight Sammy Hagar

From his start in heavy metal to tequila mogul status, Sammy Hagar’s story is as wild as his guitar solos. Here’s everything you need to know about this rock legend:

The Montrose Years

Hagar’s music career kicked off with Montrose in the early '70s, a heavy metal band named after guitarist Ronnie Montrose. Tensions over Hagar’s bold playing style led to his exit in 1975.

Pre-Van Halen Days

Before becoming Van Halen’s frontman, Hagar fronted a backing band featuring Montrose alumni: bassist Bill Church, keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald, and drummer Dennis Carmasi. He also collaborated with Neal Schon of Journey in HSAS, releasing the album Through the Fire in 1984.

Van Halen: 1985-1996

Hagar soared to fame replacing David Lee Roth in Van Halen, leading the band through an era of chart-topping albums and sold-out stadium tours.

Post-Van Halen Ventures

After parting ways with Van Halen, Hagar relocated to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where he opened a nightclub and launched the world-famous Cabo Wabo tequila. His tequila empire became so successful he sold an 80% stake in 2007 for $80 million, making more in one day than his entire music career.

Rock & Roll Road Trip

In 2016, Hagar hit the road for his show Rock & Roll Road Trip With Sammy Hagar. He met legends like Alice Cooper and Tommy Lee, blending music with travel until the pandemic ended the series in 2020.

Cars, Cooking, and the "Red Rocker"

• A car enthusiast, Hagar has a garage packed with Ferraris, hot rods, and classics, many featured in his music.

• He’s also a self-proclaimed gourmet chef, boasting that celebrity chefs like Emeril Lagasse have tasted his dishes.

• The nickname "The Red Rocker" dates to 1978 after a fan spotted him following a $1 gig and asked for his autograph with the moniker featured in a local paper.

Family & Music Legacy

Hagar has four children, including two sons who followed his musical footsteps. Aaron and Andrew (aka "Drew Hagus") both make music, but Andrew briefly avoided using the Hagar name to carve his own path.

Chickenfoot and Beyond

From 2008-2012, Hagar fronted Chickenfoot with Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony, and Chad Smith. The band recorded two albums and toured extensively. Even in 2024, Hagar keeps rocking with Satriani and Anthony by his side.

From his first Sears & Roebuck guitar to selling out arenas, Sammy Hagar truly lives up to his title as The Red Rocker. Whether he’s hitting the stage, stirring up tequila, or revving his latest Ferrari, Hagar proves rock ‘n’ roll is a lifestyle—not just a genre.

Celebrity Headlines

• Kanye West is reportedly being sued for assaulting America's Next Top Model alum Jenn An during a 2010 music video shoot.

• Jonathan Majors can breathe a little easier—his ex-girlfriend has dropped her defamation and assault lawsuit against him.

• MMA fighter Conor McGregor has been found liable in a rape and sexual assault case, according to a jury verdict.

• Kelly Ripa gave fans an eyeful, showing off a nearly nude photo of husband Mark Consuelos, calling it an outtake from his steamy shoe campaign shoot.

• Paul Simon, facing hearing loss, revealed he can't perform "You Can Call Me Al" live anymore—the last time was in 2019.

• Actor Jeff Goldblum wowed commuters in a London train station with a surprise piano performance.

Sports Shockers

• The New York Giants have cut quarterback Daniel Jones, officially ending a $160 million gamble that brought just one playoff appearance in six seasons.

• Jason Kelce isn’t just a football star—he’s landing his own late-night talk show on ESPN this January!

• Kylie Kelce shared big news: She and Eagles alum Jason are expecting baby girl #4!

• In Texas, Art Weston hooked a 68-pound smallmouth buffalo fish before releasing it. Now that’s a catch!

TV, Film & Music

• Game show icon Chuck Woolery—host of Love Connection and the original Wheel of Fortune—passed away at 83.

• Legendary Simpsons voice actor Pamela Hayden has retired after 35 years. She voiced Milhouse, Jimbo, and more. Her final episode aired last night.

• Denzel Washington promises two more Equalizer films are on the way.

• Toni Cornell, daughter of the late Chris Cornell, released a new song, “Sunset of Your Love.”

Biz News & Oddities

• DirecTV has canceled its planned merger with Dish Network, citing the $10 billion debt as a dealbreaker.

• Ruffles is bringing back their "All Dressed" chips—a mix of ketchup, BBQ, sour cream & onion, and salt & vinegar flavors.

• McDonald’s fans rejoice: McRib sauce is now available by the jug at select locations and online at wholelottamcribsauce.com.

• Festive Oreos are here! These red and green-frosted holiday cookies are available for a limited time.

• KFC enters the holiday game with lickable, chicken-flavored wrapping paper. Yes, you read that right.

Random & Ridiculous

• A Wisconsin dad of three, Ryan Borgwardt, who vanished during a kayaking trip, was found in Eastern Europe. Turns out he faked his death to start over.

• The company behind Halloween's Spirit stores is trying out Christmas Spirit stores this season.

• MSNBC anchor Rachel Maddow reportedly took a $5 million pay cut as ratings slump.

Todays Headlines

That's a Wrap!

From rock legends to wild headlines, that’s your dose of everything loud, bold, and unforgettable. Whether you're cranking up the tunes, testing out lickable KFC wrapping paper, or dreaming of tequila under the Cabo sun, remember this: life's too short to live it quietly.

Stay loud, stay wild, and keep rocking with us here at Rock 105.7 Got a story, a request, or a moment of rock wisdom? Hit us up—we’re all ears (and a whole lot of guitars).

Until next time, keep the volume up and the good times rolling.

Rock on,
The Rock King and the team at Rock 105.7