February 19th, 2004

From the inception of the band in the seventies to dawn of the new millennium Van Halen fans have ridden the waves of change. The shroud of secrecy that has cloaked the band in recent years has driven the loyal masses to eagerly scavenge every available scrap of information, no matter how fantastic, hoping that one day something would prove to be more than a cruel hoax. That day may now be upon us.

The VHND addresses the prevailing rumors:

"IS SAMMY BACK IN VAN HALEN?"

Late in 2003, Sammy Hagar, faced with a firestorm of rumors that he had once again connected with the brothers, confirmed that he had in fact been in touch with Edward and Alex Van Halen for the first time since the acrimonious split of 1996. The contact was characterized as friendly in nature but no promises were made about working together. It now appears that things have progressed remarkably from this time and a reformed Van Halen is reportedly rushing to complete two new songs for inclusion on Van Halen Best Of Volume II for a summer release and subsequent tour!

Final plans are still formative at this time but the hopeful next step following the tour would be a return to 5150 to write material for a full studio release!

Despite our excitement about the apparent end of our wait for new Van Halen music and a triumphant return to live performance, we must emphatically remind you that nothing in the land of VH is certain until the band confirms it.

"WILL VAN HALEN BE TOURING WITH BOTH SAMMY & DAVE?"

Since Sammy's departure in 1996, rumors have centered on sporadic attempts to reunite with David Lee Roth. Evidence has surfaced to support this but it now appears that these efforts have reached terminus. Contrary to recent reports that we might expect an unreleased DLR track, in addition to the two new tracks with Sammy on an upcoming greatest hits release, or that Dave may participate in a two-singer tour with Van Halen, this is not the case. Enjoy the DLR band when it plays your hometown because it doesn't look like you'll be seeing him with Van Halen any time soon.

"IS MICHAEL ANTHONY OUT OF VAN HALEN?"

Don't worry about this one! We are very happy to report that everybody's favorite Van Halen singer, Michael Anthony, is still a member of the band. The fans clearly feel it isn't Van Halen without Mikey and apparently the band agrees.

"HAS VH SELECTED A NEW MANAGER?"

Rumors are that Van Halen has finally selected a new manager, Irving Azoff. While this is not yet confirmed, it would be a great thing, as Azoff's team might be the very best in the business. If this turns out to be true, fasten your seatbelts, 'cuz VH will be a force to be reckoned with in 2004!