The Mighty VH Podcast

Ep: 018 A VH Round Table with Don Jamieson & Keith Roth

Plenty of legendary bands have changed lead singers. Some survived, some became even bigger, and others were never quite the same. But decades later, few of those changes continue to generate headlines, arguments and passionate reactions the way Van Halen’s still does. For the first-ever Mighty VH Round Table, Tommy and Tor are joined by comedian Don Jamieson and SiriusXM’s Keith Roth to ask a different kind of question about the great David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar debate: Why are we still even talking about it? Forty years after Hagar joined Van Halen, what is it about this particular change that continues to divide fans and make news? Why has Roth vs. Hagar remained part of the conversation when singer changes in so many other major bands have long since become simply part of their history? Don, Keith, Tommy and Tor dig into what made Van Halen’s situation different, from the enormous personalities and success of both eras to everything that happened before, during and after the change. This isn’t about deciding who was better. It’s about why, 40 years later, people still feel the need to pick a side. Welcome to the VH Round Table. Check out Don & Keith's Rock Strap Podcast Follow us on Instagram @mighty_vh_podcast Email us: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep 017: The What If Episode

What if Sammy Hagar turned down the offer to join Van Halen? What if Van Halen fully reunited in 1996? What if the band never recorded “Jump?” In this episode of The Mighty VH Podcast, Tommy and Tor head into the alternate universe of Van Halen history and ask some of the biggest “What If?” questions from throughout the band’s legendary career. From lineup changes and missed opportunities to songs, albums and decisions that could have completely altered the course of the band, they explore how one different choice or one different moment might have rewritten Van Halen history. Some scenarios are rooted in things that almost happened, while others are pure speculation, leading to plenty of debate over where each alternate path might have taken the band. It’s Van Halen history as it happened and as it very easily might not have. Follow us on Instagram @mighty_vh_podcast Email us: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 016 Stephen Pearcy VH Tales from the Ratt Cage

RATT founder and frontman Stephen Pearcy joins Tommy and Tor for a Van Halen-focused conversation built around his personal encounters with the band over the years. Stephen shares stories of crossing paths with Edward Van Halen and David Lee Roth, offering a firsthand look at his experiences with two of rock’s most iconic personalities, both before and after RATT became one of the biggest bands of the ’80s. From unexpected knocks on his front door to sharing a bill with Van Halen, Stephen takes us inside his own unique history with the band. We also discuss Van Halen’s enormous influence on the ’80s rock scene at large and the impact they had on the bands and musicians who followed in their wake. Follow us on Instagram @mighty_vh_podcast Email us: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 015 Women & Children First Album Focus

Tommy and Tor dig into Van Halen’s explosive third album, Women and Children First, going track by track through the 1980 classic that pushed the band into heavier, darker and more adventurous territory. Along the way, they share the story behind the album’s iconic artwork, dig into Warner Bros.’ unusual decision to release just one single from a record that would go on to sell more than three million copies, and share a few fun facts that even die-hard Van Halen fans might not know. From “And the Cradle Will Rock…” and “Everybody Wants Some!!” to “Romeo Delight,” “Take Your Whiskey Home” and beyond, Episode 015 celebrates an album that captured Van Halen at their most fearless, unpredictable and unmistakably Van Halen. Follow us on Instagram @mighty_vh_podcast Email us: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 014 Shooting Van Halen with Photog, Mark "Weissguy" Weiss

Legendary rock photographer Mark "Weissguy" Weiss joins Tommy London and Tor for an unforgettable conversation about one of rock's greatest eras and his front row seat to Van Halen's rise. From their first headlining tour to their last, Mark's camera captured some of the band's most iconic moments, creating images that have become part of Van Halen history. Mark shares behind the scenes stories from photographing David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen and Michael Anthony, along with his extensive work with Sammy Hagar that continues to this day. Beyond the photographs, Mark reflects on the relationships he built with the artists, what it was like documenting rock's biggest bands at the height of the MTV era, and why preserving that history remains so important. He also discusses his efforts to revive the legendary Rock Scene magazine and the launch of his own publication, Rocked. Whether you're fascinated by rock photography, love hearing firsthand stories from the people who were there, or simply can't get enough Van Halen history, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Visit markweiss.com Follow @markweissguy Follow @mighty_vh_podcast Email: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 013 Van Halen News Round Up Summer 2026

From David Lee Roth's surprising tour cancellations and his reunion with Alex Van Halen at TEDxFargo, to Alex's viral comments about Roth and his work with Steve Lukather on unreleased Van Halen recordings, there's no shortage of news surrounding the Van Halen camp. Tommy & Tor cover all that plus, Sammy Hagar's invitation for Roth to join him in Las Vegas at his Best of All Worlds residency, one of the largest Van Halen memorabilia auctions ever assembled, Michael Anthony's upcoming appearance at the Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp and believe it or not...more! Whether you're a casual listener or a diehard Van Halen fan, this is your complete Summer 2026 Van Halen news briefing. Join Tommy and Tor as they separate fact from fiction, share their thoughts on the latest developments, and discuss what it all could mean for the future of the Van Halen legacy.

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Ep: 012 Doing a Deep Dive with Dweezil

In this somewhat extended episode, Tommy and Tor welcome acclaimed guitarist, composer, producer, and life long Van Halen fan and friend, Dweezil Zappa, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the surface. From growing up with and befriending some of the greatest musicians in rock history to forging his own path as one of today's most respected guitarists, Dweezil shares stories, perspectives, and insights only he can tell. Together, Tommy, Tor, and Dweezil spend the episode exploring his relationship with Edward Van Halen, Eddie's revolutionary impact on guitar playing and unforgettable personal memories. Along the way, they also discuss Dweezil's own career, his approach to music, and the passion that continues to drive him as both a guitarist and performer. It's an honest, thoughtful discussion about musicianship, creativity, friendship, and the lifelong pursuit of mastering the instrument. Whether you're a Van Halen fan, a Zappa fan, or simply love hearing great stories about one of rock's greatest bands, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

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Ep: 011 Ranking the Cover Songs

From hard rock staples to Motown classics and everything in between, Van Halen had an incredible ability to take someone else’s song and make it unmistakably their own. Some became radio staples, others remain hidden gems, but every officially released cover tells a unique story about the band’s influences and creativity. In Episode 011 of The Mighty VH Podcast, Tommy London and Tor dive into every officially released Van Halen cover song, discussing the history behind each recording, what made each interpretation uniquely Van Halen, and how the band transformed familiar songs into something all their own. Along the way, Tommy and Tor each reveal their personal Top 5 Van Halen covers, sharing the stories and musical moments that earned each song a place on their lists. How do your favorites stack up? Listen in, then share your own Top 5 and see how your rankings compare with ours. Follow us on Intagram @mighty_vh_podcast

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Ep: 010 Mark Goodman of MTV & SiriusXM

Mark Goodman has been a pioneer in music broadcasting for more than four decades. From his beginnings in radio in the late 1970s to becoming one of MTV's original VJs, and later helping pioneer internet radio and satellite radio, Mark has remained one of the most respected voices in rock music. Today, he continues to connect music fans with the stories behind the songs as the host of SiriusXM's 80s on 8 and Classic Rewind, and as co-host of the podcast Sound Up with Alan Light. This week, Tommy London and Tor welcome Mark to The Mighty VH Podcast for a conversation filled with firsthand memories from one of rock's most exciting eras. Mark shares personal stories of hanging out with David Lee Roth, including a memorable late-night adventure that perfectly captures Diamond Dave's larger-than-life personality. Along the way, he reflects on his experiences with Eddie Van Halen and looks back on the remarkable relationship between Van Halen and MTV during the network's golden age. From the band's groundbreaking videos to their unforgettable appearances on the channel, Mark discusses how Van Halen helped shape MTV's identity and how MTV, in turn, helped introduce the band to millions of fans around the world. Whether you're a longtime Van Halen fan or simply fascinated by the golden age of MTV, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective from someone who lived it.

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Ep: 009 OU812 Album Focus

Released in the summer of 1988, OU812 proved that Van Halen’s successful reinvention with Sammy Hagar was no fluke. Debuting at No. 1, the album showcased a band that was growing both musically and lyrically, blending arena rock anthems with more melodic songwriting and impressive musicianship. In this episode, Tommy London and Tor take a deep dive into Van Halen’s eighth studio album, examining every track, the stories behind the recording sessions, the standout performances, and where OU812 fits within the band’s legendary catalog. From chart-topping hits to overlooked gems, they break down what makes this album one of the defining releases of the Hagar era. Thirty-eight years after its release, does OU812 deserve more recognition among Van Halen fans? Join Tommy and Tor as they revisit an album that helped cement Van Halen’s place at the top of the rock world. Follow @mighty_vh_podcast on Instagram Email: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 008 Author & VH Expert Greg Renoff

Greg Renoff has become one of the most respected voices in Van Halen history. As the author of Van Halen Rising and Ted Templeman: A Platinum Producer's Life in Music, he has uncovered stories and firsthand accounts that have helped reshape what fans know about the band's remarkable journey. In Episode 008 of The Mighty VH Podcast, Tommy London and Tor sit down with Greg for a wide-ranging conversation that spans nearly the entire Van Halen story. From the legendary Gene Simmons demos and the band's earliest club days to the arrival of Sammy Hagar, the making of iconic albums, and the often misunderstood Van Halen III era, no topic is off limits. Along the way, Greg shares the research, interviews, and behind the scenes insights that have made his books essential reading for Van Halen fans. Whether you've followed the band since the beginning or are discovering their history for the first time, this is a conversation packed with fascinating stories, fresh perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for one of rock's greatest bands. Follow on Instagram: @mighty_vh_podcast Email at themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 007 The Genius of Michael Anthony

Michael Anthony’s fingerprints are all over the Van Halen sound, even if his contributions have not always received the recognition they deserve. When people talk about Van Halen, the conversation usually begins with Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking guitar work, David Lee Roth’s charisma, Sammy Hagar’s powerhouse vocals, or Alex Van Halen’s incredible drumming. Yet throughout it all, Michael Anthony was the steady force that helped hold the band together. From his signature high harmonies that became an essential part of the Van Halen sound to his dependable bass playing and infectious energy on stage, Anthony brought far more to the band than many fans, and perhaps even some within the band, fully appreciated at the time. How did he manage to carve out his own place in a group filled with some of the biggest personalities in rock history? What was it about Michael Anthony that made him such a beloved figure among fans for decades? And why has his role in the band’s success become even more appreciated with the passage of time? Join Tommy London and Tor as they explore the career, contributions, and lasting impact of Van Halen’s secret weapon. It’s a celebration of the musician, the performer, and the team player whose voice, talent, and presence helped make Van Halen one of the greatest rock bands the world has ever known. Like. Comment. Share. Subscribe. Follow us on Instagram @mighty_vh_podcast Email us at themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 006 Guitarist Richie Kotzen Gets to the Soul of VH

Richie Kotzen, acclaimed guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer known for his solo career, Mr. Big, Poison, and The Winery Dogs, joins Tommy London and Tor for a fascinating conversation about the deeper musical roots of Van Halen. Richie reflects on meeting Eddie Van Halen for the first time and shares stories about his friendship with Eddie’s longtime guitar technician, Zeke Clark. Together, they explore what made Eddie such a singular creative force, not only as a revolutionary guitarist, but as a songwriter whose sense of melody, groove, and emotion helped define Van Halen’s sound. The discussion also examines Van Halen’s often-overlooked connection to soul music, with Richie explaining why the band’s true power was never just technical ability, but feel. This is a thoughtful conversation about the heart, soul, and enduring legacy of one of rock’s greatest bands. (And hey, check out that run time for this episode!)

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Ep: 005 Remembering Donn Landee, the man behind the sound of Van Halen

When fans talk about the sound of Van Halen, the conversation usually starts with Eddie, David, Alex, and Michael. But behind the board was a man whose fingerprints were on every classic Van Halen record: Don Landee. In Episode 005 of The Mighty VH Podcast, Tommy and Tor explore the career of the engineer and producer who helped capture one of rock’s most recognizable sounds. From Van Halen I through OU812, Landee helped shape the band’s biggest recordings, from Eddie’s guitar tone to the energy that defined their albums. The guys also dive into behind-the-scenes stories from Sunset Sound and 5150 Studios, examining the sessions, personalities, and moments that became part of Van Halen history. They discuss Landee’s work beyond the band and why his contributions to rock music deserve greater recognition. Join us as we celebrate the life, career, and legacy of the man who helped make Van Halen sound like Van Halen. Subscribe, rate, and follow The Mighty VH Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

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Ep: 004 Eat 'Em & Smile VS. 5150

What happens when the two most anticipated albums in Van Halen history arrive just months apart? In Episode 004 of The Mighty Van Halen Podcast, hosts Tommy London and Tor dive headfirst into the ultimate 1986 showdown: David Lee Roth’s Eat ’Em and Smile versus Van Halen’s 5150. Following one of rock’s most dramatic breakups, both camps had something to prove and neither disappointed. From the musicians and producers involved to the songs, tours, sales, videos, and cultural impact, Tommy and Tor compare these landmark releases and discuss how each album helped shape the future of the Van Halen story. Which record aged better? Which one made the bigger statement? And forty years later, who really won the battle of 1986? Tune in and decide for yourself. Instagram: @mighty_vh_podcast Email: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 003 What Happened at the Legendary US Festival?

If you’re like us, you can’t hear the words, “Memorial Day Weekend” without thinking of Van Halen playing the US Festival in 1983. Between the epic tour they had just come off of, the music they were in the middle of creating for their next album (1984) and their massive pay day, amongst many other things, the band had their hands full when they hit the stage on that faithful day. Would they rise to the occasion and make rock history or … forget “the f**king words!” The answer is, both. Tune in to Episode: 003 of The Mighty VH Podcast to hear all about it.

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Ep: 002 Viral Sensation VANAMA and creator, Ryan Richardson

Jump back, it’s Episode 002 of the Mighty VH Podcast. Tommy London and Tor keep the moving parts clean and see what makes viral sensation VANAMA run. From the paint job to what’s really powering this thing under the hood, the guys take a ride straight into one of the most creative and unexpected VH inspired creations to hit the internet in a long time. The episode also touches on the new Walgreens commercial featuring Van Halen’s “Right Now,” proving that “right now” the music of Van Halen still finds new ways to roar through pop culture decades later. Here’s the link to see what we’re talking about: https://youtu.be/tkUfoPM-Gec Packed with laughs, stories, hot takes, and pure VH fan energy, Episode 002 keeps the engine running from start to finish. Like, subscribe, comment below and tell us your thoughts on VANAMA and the Walgreens “Right Now” commercial. Follow us on Instagram: @mighty_vh_podcast Email: themightyvhpodcast@gmail.com

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Ep: 001 "Always Meet Your Heroes... (Especially if they're in Van Halen)"

Co-hosts, Tommy London & Tor share their stories of how they came to met the members of Van Halen over the years. From a 3 hour conversation with David Lee Roth to dinner with Sammy Hagar and a chance meeting of Alex Van Halen in a supermarket. All of that and more in this, the very first episode of The Mighty VH Podcast. Follow @mighty_vh_podcast on Instagram & @MightyVHPodcast on Youtube. Email: themightyvanhalenpodcast@gmail.com