Musician Sammy Hagar is known for a wide array of talents. However, he is best known for his role in the rock band Van Halen. He also enjoys great renown for his guitar work, vocals, and original compositions.

Samuel Roy Hagar was born October 13, 1947, in Monterey, California. Before Hagar had any thoughts of pursuing music, he tried his hand at boxing just like his father before him. Yet, he quickly realized he was much more enamored with the musical styling of his home state than anything he encountered in the ring.

Hagar appeared in a multitude of bands, including Skinny, Justice Brothers, Cotton, Manhole, and more, before any substantial success came his way. Eventually, Hagar teamed up with Montrose who found some level of success. Their popular single "Bad Motor Scooter" was even written by Hagar. However, Hagar and the band’s namesake, Ronnie Montrose, soon had somewhat of a falling out. This caused an irreparable divide with Montrose going one way and Hagar, Bill Church, and Denny Carmassi going another.

The year was 1976, and with the recent split from his former band, Hagar decided it was time to pursue a solo career. This endeavor continued until 1984. During this span of eight years, Hagar released several albums and singles, arguably the most famous song being "I Can’t Drive 55."

The next significant musical career move came in the form of the band H.S.A.S. which included Kenny Aaronson and Michael Shrieve, best known as the drummer for guitar great Carlos Santana. However, the band was ultimately short-lived and unsuccessful on a large commercial scale. Therefore, it was 1985 that would truly define Hagar’s career.

The rock band Van Halen, reeling from the contentious departure of front man David Lee Roth, was searching for a new lead vocalist. Eddie Van Halen and the rest of the band offered the position to Hagar, who gladly accepted. Their first album together, 5150, enjoyed wide commercial success.

This new configuration of Van Halen recorded together until 1996 when intra-band tensions escalated, and Hagar either left or was fired. The story differs depending on whose perspective is offered.

Never leaving the music industry entirely, Hagar returned to his solo endeavors. He continues to play today, although not at the same level as in his musical heyday.

Hagar is also associated with the successful nightclub Cabo Wabo. Located in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, he recently opened another installment in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. This in turn spurred a popular and lucrative line of tequila known also as Cabo Wabo. Hagar plans to open a third club in St. Louis, Missouri soon.

In his personal life, Hagar has been married twice. He and his first wife, Betsy Berardi, were together from 1968 to 1994 when the couple divorced. They had two children together. Hagar quickly remarried in 1995 to Kari Karte, and the couple is currently still together. They also have two children together.

YUDDY