Thanks For The support!!
First of all, I hope all of you are having a great Summer!! I want to thank everyone for all the support you're shown me during the past months. I'ts all been pretty crazy, and I just wanted to bring you all up to speed. Alot of you have been asking about the upcoming Van Halen tour and my response to it. It's not that I'm not touring with Van Halen because I'm going out with Sammy, I'm going out with Sammy because I was not invited to do the VH tour.
Sammy told me that if I was asked to be part of the VH tour and decided to do it, it would be totally cool, and it would not tarnish our friendship in the least!! Well it's not to be, and life goes on. I'll still be out there with Sam, and I can't wait to do some partying with all of you. One last note from myself to all the Van Halen fans out there who will be attending their shows...Wolfgang is a great kid, so don't judge him too harshly. I'm sure he'll do just fine!!....See you all soon, Mike
Sammy told me that if I was asked to be part of the VH tour and decided to do it, it would be totally cool, and it would not tarnish our friendship in the least!! Well it's not to be, and life goes on. I'll still be out there with Sam, and I can't wait to do some partying with all of you. One last note from myself to all the Van Halen fans out there who will be attending their shows...Wolfgang is a great kid, so don't judge him too harshly. I'm sure he'll do just fine!!....See you all soon, Mike
posted by Michael Anthony at 11:31 AM
314 Comments:
VH is nothing without you, MA! I WILL see you and Sammy on tour this fall... I will absolutely NOT see the supposed 'VH' reunion tour. Rock on, dood!
Mikey!
I can't wait to see you in Novato!
You are such an upstanding guy.I LOVE when you do Running with the devil. I'm sure Wolife is a great kid but no one can take your place!
I've gotta get my" Got Mikey" shirt!Dave and Eddie are just a train wreck. I'd rather see my down to earth guys who give a GREAT show.Get my drink ready I'll
see ya soon!
Your 8th ave girl
Jackie
Mike, YOU ARE THE MAN!!!!!!!
See ya on the road!
Ryan
We love you, Mike. There are those of us who greatly value your contribution to Van Halen and applaud your class-act conduct throughout this entire fucked up ordeal. Best of luck to you as rock rolls on.
Hey Mikey, you are a stand up, class act man! We will all miss you on the VH tour and I hope one day all the BS can be put aside and you and Sammy can get back on stage with VH. A tour with both Sam and Dave would be great! You can still always come down and JAM with The Atomic Punks & their new sister band 5150!!!!! Take care,
Dave B
www.theatomicpunks.com
http://www.myspace.com/5150vhtributeband
Mike.....You Are The Best!
See ya out there!
Pat R.
thx for your comment, what did you think of that paintjob over_ at VAN-HALEN.com, not surprised that they first_ removed_ your pic from VH1 and WACF_ Covers_?
cheers,
lj
Mikey you are a true class act.I just do no understand why they are trying to erase you from VH history! I can't wait to see you and Sammy in K.C!
Mike, you're a class act. First, you give recognition to Gary Cherone at the Hall of Fame induction, and now you give props to Wolfgang. There are some good guys in rock. Best to ya.
Mike, very well said. We'll see on the road.
Ray & Kathy from NJ
I wish I had as much class as you. You are the true spirit of the music we all grew up with... and if the only place I can find that music is at a Wabo show, then that's where I'll be. The bros seem to suck all the fun out of Van Halen music... and I'll pass on shelling out another c-note to watch some drunk noodle around on his guitar.
VH just isn't VH without you playing bass! It sucks you won't be on the VH tour but I'm sure you'll have a blast playing with Sammy and we're all pulling for you. Kudos on having such a positive attitude about the whole thing.
Class. Just pure class Mike. I applaud you for giving support to Wolfgang. Rock on and I WILL see you guys if the tour makes it to Atlanta. Rock on!
Andres
whataboutmichael.blogspot.com
Mikey,
This is why we love you so much. You are an awesome guy. I will see you in Houston and Dallas on stage BABY!
Kristen
Mike, you are such a class act. In or out of the band you will *ALWAYS* be the heart and soul of Van Halen and your comments here are exactly why. I'll be catching a show on the VH tour, but as far as I am concerned it is *NOT* the real VH without you there. Can't wait to see you and Sammy in Sweet Home Chicago in November. Keep on rockin!!!
--Alex in Chicago
Mikey,
YOU ROCK. This is why we love you. I can't wait to see you on the road with Sammy.
See you in Houston and Dallas on stage BABY!
Kristen
Awesome comments on your recent blog, Mike. This is why you & Gary are considered the class acts not only in Van Halen, but as human beings.
Only wish like hell you were part of this tour. If you could bottle this class, along with your sauces, the world would be a better place.
Take care!
Vince
Great post. You are a class act.
Looking forward the the Mad Anthony Express this fall.
I must honestly say that whether you were invited or not, you made the correct choice. Sammy seems like a really good human being and your continued professional behavior is absolutely amazing.
I have only seen VH once (1984 - Monster of Rock in Germany), never seen Sammy, honestly more of an Iron Maiden/Saxon type of guy, but I have been glued to the soap opera that is VH since Dave got the boot. It's been extremely entertaining and very sad at the same time.
The one constant through all of this has been you. You are an extremely tolerant, classy, and professional person, which is extremely rare in any business. I salute you and wish you all the best.
I will try and come to one of your shows next time you guys all make it to the So-Cal area. I'll be wearing an Iron Maiden shirt and my wife a Scorpions one :-), and we'll buy the beer.
Cheers to you Michael,
Sven Toothman
svent@sprintmail.com
Mike, you are a true class act! It is not Van Halen without you. You Rock!
Mike,
You are and always will be a class act. Thanks as always for doing what you do, and as I fan, I look forward to see what 'Mad Anthony' has to offer in the future!
Mike, it kills me that you're not a part of this tour. you should be right there. we've waited 23 effin' years for this and still the Bros can't get it right? without you some of the "thrill" is just missing. oh well life goes on....
Michael Anthony,
You will be sorely missed at the Van Halen concert in Detroit. Thanks for all the wonderful concerts I was fortunate enough to see. You are a true rock n roller and an awesome human being to boot.
See ya on the road....
~Denis
Can't wait to see the Express this fall! Thanks for being so cool to the fans.
rock on
lb
This is one of the main reasons why Michael Anthony is respected so much by his fans, and fans of rock music in general. The man is so easy going about things, considering "Beavis and Butthead" treat him like crap. To hell with the brothers, I want to see the Michael Anthony Express, Los Tres Gusanos & Sammy and The Wabos. Can't wait 'til the Fox Theatre show in Detroit 11/2! Thank You Michael Anthony for being one of the greatest bass players in the history of Rock N' Roll and a class act as well!
Mike Im sure Wolfie is good but i still wish you were gonna be there, but i may have the best of both worlds cause I plan on seeing you and Sammy Ocotber 23rd and 24th in Dallas, then im drivin up to Kansas City on the 26th to see Van Halen in the same week, im gonna be exausted, lol, love ya Mikey!!
I find it incredibly interesting how "unimportant" Eddie thinks you are, yet he still wants to use your legendary vocals, albeit on tape, for the shows on this upcoming tour. That right there is incontrovertible proof of how important your contributions are to the very fabric of Van Halen.
And by the way, the hot sauce is devastatingly delicious! Now you need a “Mad Anthony’s Chicken Pickin’ Wing Sauce!”
Mike,
I knew you would take the high road and it will be to your benefit. I have supported, and rocked out to, every member change Van Halen has experienced over the years, and appreciated each one as it's own entity. I'm not sure what Ed & Alex are trying to prove by treating you the way they have in recent years, but it has cost them the respect of this devoted, lifelong fan, and I fear many others.
The revelation that they will possibly be using backing tapes of YOU to cover your absence vocally, is not only insulting to me as fan and musician, but points to their stubbornness and audacity.
You take care, we'll see you in Kansas City.
Mike-
True Van Halen fans know your importance to that band. You will be missed. Best of luck on the road...How about a Boston show?
Always a Man of True Class and One of the Nicest Guys in Rock and Roll. My mantra this year is " No Mikey in Van Halen, No Van Halen Ticket in my Hand" I will however go to see You and Sammy anytime.
Neil in Mesa AZ.
It just goes to show that no matter what happens,you will ALWAYS stand tall over those Van Halen brothers.It's just terrible that the GREATEST band in the world can't get together for one tour and Light up the sky one more time!Also come over and check your myspace page and put a link on MADANTHONYCAFE.COM finally!Haven't heard from you or Elisha in a while about it!
Mike,
YOU are what I miss about Van
Halen. What a stand-up guy.
You are the BEST!
Joe D.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Mikey, a class act, through and through.
Now talk Sammy into coming to North Carolina on this tour!!
Because I live in italy I won't get the chance of shaking your hand and tell you what a great person you are! I had the intention to come to the states and see the reunion show, but without you it won't happen...... YOU ARE THE MAN!!!!!!! thanx roberto vanni
Mikey,
A true class act. We've met a few times over the years and we drank tequila together last year in Cabo after the Cruise perforamance. VH has been a part of my life for so long but I'm disgusted with the way it all turned out. Eddie changed my life in '78. I'm a professional guitar player because of him. And I love life. Now he's changed it again. He's shown me what a true backstabbing asshole acts like. And you're teaching class. Here's to ya.
Keepin rockin Mike!!!!
Wolfgang is good boy, but his father is a shit-head with a patetic smile on the face!!! And using Mike pre-recorded backing vocals at the shows? Ridiculous... Grow-up Eddie.
Mike,
Thanks for showing some class. You deserve a lot of respect.
JIM
It's sad that you aren't in the 'reunion'. It's obvious that Eddie has a double-standard when it comes to what band members can do.
We all know he was involved in many outside projects. Hope he sees the light and realizes it's not VH with out the 4 of you.(Sammy instead of Dave would also be a reunion, in my eyes).
Your are way to cool Mike.
I'm going to your show now just because you and Sammy are so cool and know how to have a good time. The character you and Sammy have is just the way it should be. "STAND UP GUYS"
Mike, you make me proud to be a fan.
Don't ever change.
Matt Wales
P.S. Thanks for the reply.
Great post, MA. Professional, classy, spot on. Congratulations for pursuing your new opportunities, and for doing what you truly have passion for.
Thank you for your genuine concern and care for the fans as well!
God Bless you and your family, have fun on your tour!
Greetings Mike,
You show great taste in not bashing the Van Halens. Don't worry the VH tour won't last. David Lee is the odd-man out among 3 Van Halens. It won't be long until they will be fighting again. Eddie has his addictions and Alex is paranoid. David Lee will do anything for a buck, including sing "Jump" as a bluegrass song. Have fun with Sammy Hagar and his band. Rock on!
Man, you have so much class. That's why I love you and Sammy both. Fame and fortune never took your souls!! WHY AREN'T THERE ANY CT SHOWS??--- from: "I'm not worthy" in Connecticut!
Mike,
Your the best.i do not know the innner working`s of what`s between you and van halen.just from our point`s of view.we miss the old band and wish you could be there.and ed could have wolfie come out asa asg, less stree on him and mom.lol and ed could jam with his son and make it a family affair...well that`s my thught`s at this moment ...keep rockin hope to see ya in grand rapid`s... Eddie Weese
Eddie just seems to screw up everything, all of the time.
Your a class act Mike and true Van Halen fans stand behind you!
You and Sam were gracious at the induction and I thought Eddie would have been humbled. I was wrong but life does go on.
Let's count how many times Eddie will change guitar sponsors during this tour for the $$$$$$!!!!!
Sam and yourself give the fans what they want, remember that!Can't wait to see you and Sam on tour!!!!!!!!!!!
Your a class act. Not many self centered rock stars have your style. Rock on Mikey and I saw you with Sammy and VH a few years back, thats all I need.
Sam
I'll be seeing this new VH on tour, Mike, but you will be missed.
Mikey you have more class in your pick than the sisters Alex and Sped have put together.
By the way how come no Toronto dates?
Mike, you are truly a class act. After seeing you live with VH (the Sammy years) numerous times and with Sammy solo you are an awesome singer/bass player!! Hopefully, you guys will hit CT (we love you guys!) again you guys always give 110% live and its a fun party atmosphere! Screw Dave and Eddie (Dave can't sing and last time I saw Eddie 2004 MA - he couldn't play) I hope that tour bombs - no VH show is a show without you Mike.
well...
i read 90% of your post, saw it coming to an end, and simply wanted more, as there are things we wonder about as to your own personal reactions to some of the shenanigans in the vh camp.
so yeah, i had a frown, but then, in the last 10%, you throw in the wolfie comment and the smile returned to my face.
a class act you are indeed.
as for the vh tour, it will NOT be a trainwreck. in fact, it was you, michael, who SUGGESTED bringing dave back into the fold when it was up with sammy.
people do not realize that eddie and dave have been getting along great for close to a year now. they instead see last monday's press conference as day one...which it isn't.
now contrary to the bad reviews dave got on the 2002 sam & dave tour, he sounded better then than he did in his heyday. it was a contest every night and he straightened his ass out in order to compete.
the guys aren't partiers anymore. they are older men and they will be professional to a tee.
sorry you won't be there. i am sure wolfie will be fine, or neither ed nor valerie would subject him to this.
one day, mike, i would love to talk one on one. til then...take care.
This is a perfect example of the fact that VH has lost its class. You are the best Mike. I cannot figure out what these guys are doing. I can understand the guy wants to play with his son. But the fans want an original line up reunion. What is so hard about that.If there is room for Ed and Dave I am sure they could accomedate You and Wolf. You have never been one to steal the spotlight. Rock On!!!
Im really surprised about what they are trying to do. They are trying to make us forget YOU were there through all these years, YOU were an important part of that band, and sure WE will not forget it!!. Sorry for my poor english =/
Mikey's the class act, plain and simple. I just read where the vh boys are supposedly removing Mikey's writing credits from the early catalog.
So I'll say it again: Mikey's rock-solid, no-ego basslines and crystal clear falsetto background vocals were the FOUNDATION on which vh was based. PERIOD.
Keep making that Mad Anthony Hot Sauce, Mikey, 'cause I don't want any part of that BITTER brew coming out of the vh camp. Ugh.
This is one of the biggest travesties in Rock...it is not the original lineup without you and your vocals are integral to the VH sound. I WONT be going to the shows.
The above being said, can you comment on WHY you think you weren't invited? I think you can answer this while still taking the high road.
Ed finally lost his #1 fan this year.Wanted the CVH REUNION, didnt get it.Too little, too late.All in all, I think you should be happy you dont have to deal with this asshole anymore.Fuck You ed.Good for you, Mike, this tour with start out with a bang and fizzle once the YouTube clips come out, mark my words. Paul Floyd
Mike, thanks for being so humble and gracious concerning the VH tour. I really, really wish you were going to be on the tour because as other have said it's not really classic VH without you, Dave, Ed & Alex. To this day my favorite concert is still your show that I attended on the Diver Down tour in 1982 in Omaha, NE. It was awesome and I have waited 25 years to relive that experience. I'll be at the VH show in October here in Minneapolis, and I will be wishing you were on stage with the boys.
Take care and if you and Sam schedule a show here in Minnesota, I'll be there.
mike - you're a class act, bro
i waited 23 years for dave and ed to get their crap together so i could see the greatest rock band in history reform
now, they've done it and you're not gonna be with them....it just ain't the same and i ain't interested
looks like you have TONS of support...you should check the posts on youtube too
good luck with sam! my guess is they won't last thru the tour anyway
-scott in nc
I won't go to a Van Halen show without you there. I think it's crap what they have done. I'll see you and Sammy when you play Detroit.
Mike You are the best! Thanks for signing my back stage laminate during sound check on the 2004 VH tour in Hamilton. You are the Van Halen sound. Eddie must have been so drunk and bumped his head. Please come back to Canada we love ya up here
CB
Class Class Class
Thanks Mike
With or without VH, we'll be seeing you soon in the Big D. Last time you were here I missed a pic that you tossed to me, can I have another chance? I'm really hoping you'll be in Cabo for the bash too!!
It ain't Van Halen without you. In 2004 we had 5 star tickets for VH in Vegas. Thank You for taking the time to take a picture with us at the Hard Rock the next day!
Tracy
Mike I support you and Sam and know you will be greatly missed with Van Halen. I still love yah! You are an extremely classy musician! I am a string instrument player myself, a violinist. I occassionally played the Cello and Bass for my teacher. I haven't played in over 20 some odd years though. I have never been able to see a VH concert so I am planning on getting tickets in the St Louis Mo area. I am in Columbia MO and wish you and Sam would come here to the party town to do a concert. Oh god, that would be great. We have Elton John Coming October 5th. I cannot believe it??! I grew up listening to his music. He is like super huge, but my heart belongs to You, Van Halen, and of course the Red Rocker himself! I know you will surely be missed on this tour, shit! I just wish all could get along. I understand though. I want to attend a VH concert b/c this may be the last time we all get to see them in person with all the bullshit that is going on. We are all getting too old even though I refuse to grow up! LOL. I would love to see you,Sam,and Dave all togethor in a VH concert b/c that would be so awesome!!!! Everybody at once, that would be just super cool and awesome is all I can say. Anyway I am 40 ish lol. So I am still a hard rock and roller 4-ever!!! I hate RAP CRAP! Rock and Roll will never die!!!!! You keep rockin buddy and God bless you and Sam!!! Love yah!!!! :-)
Hey Mike! Can't wait to see you and Sammy here in Phoenix September 15th with Cheap Trick.
My wife and I paid $120 per ticket, and we're getting a hotel room down-town. So we're ready to party !!
Glad you're not wasting your time on the train-wreck tour. Screw EVH, I wouldn't pay $20 to see that show.
Hope I get to buy you a drink when you're in town !!
Peace,
The Rod Squad
Mike... It takes alot of stones to not bash the VH brothers and to give props to Wolfie as you did here.
You are a class dude in this (alot of times unclassy) business called the music business.
You & Sammy keep rockin as the Other Half and the other projects together.
Mike you got a fan for life man. Keep it up!
mrk5150
You are a class act. You don't need VH and it's unfortunate the way they treated you.
You are a class act, always have been, always will be. I look forward to seeing you on the road.
All the best to you MA
Hey, I saw VH on the Women and Children First tour... Based on what I saw on stage and knowing you are not on tour with VH.. ummm... who exactly is going to be doing the singing?
Also, I have recommended to women who are going to the show to not bother throwing bras and panties on stage, instead, throw walkers and Viagra!
Warren
Mike,
I have to take my hat off to you. Nobody outside the inner circle of VH knows what is going on, but in a time when you could be bitter and hammer on anybody and everybody involved you go with the flow with so much CLASS!!! Keep it up, I am a huge VH AND MA fan, good things go to people with character like yours. Rock it up out on the road with Sammy, hope to see you soon. I hope a couple people learn how to handle situations like you and get things corrected for THE true reunion. Here's to that faint hope. ROCK ON
Mike, I met you backstage in '02 in
San Bernadino,I have said since then what a great guy you were to meet,your comments on the VH reunion just prove to everyone what a classy stand up guy You really are !!
Keep Rockin'
Ken Long Island NY
Mike
VH is nothing with out you !!!! Eddie needs a reality check and a personality alignment.
We love ya !!! See ya with HAGAR
Personally i think eddie and the rest of them should be ashamed of them the way they treated you
i give it 3 months with david til they kick him out
VH-michael = 3 idiots and a baby
Mike, you will be missed on th VH tour. Only a hand full of bands hold such a cherished spot amongst fans as VH does. It's a real shame that whatever the cause for this gross mistake in judgement, that things couldn't be worked out. There are times when a band has to put themselves first and do what best for them. Other times, the FANS rule and a group should put aside it's petty differences and give the fans what they want ! (KISS 1996 reunion, perfecr example) VH is sooooo! lucky to be in there position. They can do as they please. That's a double edged sword. FANS have been wanted Dave back for years. Now Dave's back Mike's out!!?? I/ we, the FANS, love VAN HALEN but those guys are pushing thier luck. You not being there is like someone moving the finish in a race. You can only ask us, the FANS, to 'run" so much before we just say forget it! I've been in bands, I know the squabbles, the fights over money, publishing,what songs to play, this guy doesn't do enough, that guys to controlling etc... JUST STOP ! As I said, only a few bands in music history can do what Van Halen can do. Put aside the pettiness or join the ranks of Gilmour vs. Waters.
Mikey, you are a true class-act !!! Bring the Sammy and Mike show up to Canada :)
Mario @ Axess
www.axess-electronics.com
Michael,
I just want to say that you are a wonderful human being, this because you said that the folks shouldn't judge Wolfgang too hard.
You really have all my sympathy man.
Lot's of respect!
Rock on and slap teh bass
Mike I just wanted to say thank you for all the years I heard you play with VH and with Sammy. I have enjoyed listing to your music. You have in some ways you have been and will continue to be inspirational to me.
Way to take the high road, man. It's nice to see a celebrity actually acting like a role model instead of a whiney, complaining bee-otch. Rock on, dude.
Mike, Ken here again...
We now know Who the Two Assholes
are on your Hot Sauce Bottle !!!!
Ken & Steve
Long Island NY
Mike you're the greatest.
class act man!
Would love to see ya in Montreal with Sammy. Keep on rockin!!
Michel
Mike-
You've handled everything with complete class. Good for you. When all is said and done... it's who you are as a PERSON that matters in life, and you've always proved yourself to be one classy individual.
I'll be seeing you, Sam and the gang in Sioux City, IA. this November.
Keep smiling.
C. Olson
Minneapolis
i just want to add something to what i said earlier, which is in reaction to some of the kind things people are saying here about mike...
yes, what they are doing to mike is douchy, but when i read that 'they are trying to make us forget that YOU were part of this band', the truth is, and i hate to say that this goes directly to you SAMMY fans, but that is EXACTLY what they were doing to DAVE when HE wasn't part of the band. and to me, that was shameful as well.
vh with dave put out 6 stellar albums with stellar material, kick ass rock and roll that took you places and brought a smile to my face.
with that, not only was vh ignoring dave, but they were ignoring this great music, which also was quite wrong.
Thanks for taking the high road, as usual, Mikey.
Tear it up with Sammy!
Dave in Sac
Mike,
The four of you in VH were once the biggest band in the world. It is such a shame to see that things have come to this. It is quite apparent that Ed & Al have not been able overcome their animosity for Sammy. Guilt by association is also a sign of tremendous immaturity on the part of E & A.
Trying to replace you would be like Led Zeppelin trying replace Bonham. Or the Who trying to replace Moon. The original VH sound will forever be altered.
Good luck to you on your tour with Sammy. You both are and always have been class acts.
Gump-
You've got a lot of class, Mr. Anthony. I'm sorry you won't be touring with VH this summer. But their loss is Sammy's gain.
Cheers.
No MA = no VH. Simple math there! I would've thought they'd be smart enough to know that! Not inviting you is just plain wrong and stupid!
Have a blast w/Sammy dude! I know you will! :)
Al
BOS/MA
Michael,
I had the pleasure of meeting you in St. Louis at the Kobe restaurant w/t AMPEG folks in July 2004.
You are a total class act! Never let anyone try to bring you down!
Folks - I was introduced to Michael as a good friend and Mike took pics with me ( that are proudly displayed in my house ), signed the F.U.C.K. cd booklet on his pic and shared some kind words with me at a bar after dinner. Michael had no reason to do so, other than being a solid man!
Thanks for everything over the years Mad Anthony!
See ya in St. Louis for the shows at the Fox !!!
Flaming Cocktail shirt guy!
Wow, MA you are an amazing individual and I wish you and your family all the best. Please rock on and Stay Gold!
I'd love to see VH with DLR (was a tad too young and only caught you guys with Sammy at the helm)...but only if MA is there, too. It's a shitty deal, bro, and very unfortunate for the fans AND the band. A lot of us refuse to see a "reunion" show that is still only 3/4 =VH=. It's sad that things have to be this way. Good luck in life and God bless you and your family, Mike.
Signed,
A Lifelong VH fan
Mike you are a class act. Have fun with Sammy.
Mike your the man!
Greetings from the Netherlands!!
Class Act!
Not that you're not loved by Millions, but you slept with the enemy, Michael... So to speak.
Did you really think Dave Roth would ever lay down his guns? Did you really think he would fade into oblivion? Do you really think he wouldn't have the final say?
Be Thankful, Michael. You were spared, you got off easy. Just wait 'till you see Roth has in store for the 'Van Halens'.
Regardless, no matter the future, your history can never be taken away. You are a good soul, Michael, and you will always be thought as such.
All the Best to you and yours.
Hey Mike,
Obviously none of us know what actually goes on behind the scenes, but it sure seems like you get treated like shit by the brothers. You don't need that. Stick with Sammy, who seems to be a super-cool guy and a good friend to you.
You have no obligation to us - the fans - to take any bullshit at all from Eddie or anyone else just to make sure it's a real reunion. I saw every tour from VH1 to 1984, and those memories are great. I have all the CD's (LP's and some cassettes too!), and you will always be part of that great period in rock history.
You and Sam were so classy at the RRHOF induction, and your recent comments on the "reunion" tour are further proof of who the good guys are in the ongoing VH cluster-fuck. You and Sam take the high road, saying and doing all the right things and behaving like good humans. Ed and Al continue to shit the bed at every opportunity.
I wanted the Roth tour to happen just as much as everyone else, but when I found out how much tickets were and that you weren't even invited to be part of it, I had to say fuckit.
You have a lot of support and a lot of friends and fans buddy. Rock on and be happy.
I will NOT be attending the VH reunion for the sole reason that You are not in it. DAMN, I was looking so forward to a REAL VH reunion though. I seen Van Halen in 1984 (the year) and really enjoyed the show.
I'm sure it's been said, but it's a FUCKING DISGRACE! You are correct - no one should judge Wolfgang. I'm sure he IS a good kid. I BLAME EDWARD, who has a pattern of FUCKING UP THIS BAND!! For those of you who bought tickets - congratulations. You just paid $150 to see a 16-year old bass player who has had to work for NOTHING his entire life. Losers!
Mike,
You are a great talent! You helped take the Van Halen machine to super rock stardom from the get-go.I think it is disrespectful of the others to do this without you. But you are handling it like the class act that I know you are. I wish Wolf luck, but you are a big part of this to me. And I hate missing parts. Keep Rockin' Bro!
Mad Anthony Rules,
Gary
From Iowa
Way to Take the High Road Bro..
Myself like 1000's of other Fans Feel for you.
What made this guy so Power Hungry? Was it That he was in a 20 Year Alcohol induced haze, and now he is out. I would love to be a Fly on the Wall at times in 5150. Doesn't Al ever Speak up? I guess that we'' all wait for the Book.
Anyway's We'll all Catch you this Summer with Sammy.
I Picture The Van Halen's in 1 Limo, and Diamond Dave in another. With The Midgets, Dancing Girls, Donkey's, etc. It will be a Matter of Minutes before the CRAZY DLR comes out, Not the Subdued on the Leash guy from the Press Conference.. Once the Lights Hit Him, He'll Transform,,,,
Everyone Loves a Good Train Wreck.
Rock on Mike!!!
Mike you are better off not touring with these fools. Since 1984 Eddie and Alex lost touch with the word business in music business. The fucked it all up!
Dude, you & Sam were the only bit of class in that band. You & Sammy really seem to appreciate your fans unlike the rest of the crew who don't seem to give a rat's ass what we think. I wish you the best in whatever you & if you're anywhere near Vancouver, Canada, I'll be there to see you.
You've got a really great attitude, Mike. Class act all the way - makes me appreciate your work that much more.
We were so excited to see the original Van Halen reunite for a tour. All our favorites, Dave, Eddie, Al, and.........where's Mikey at?!?!?!? It's a shame you weren't invited, it just won't be the same without you. But as you said, life goes on. Who's going to hit all those high notes though? We love ya mikey!!!
Chris and Danny Burkholder
Boise ID
Mike,
It's a shame that the Van Halen legacy keeps getting flushed down the crapper. This supposed "Reunion Tour" is nothing more than a cash grab to once again rip off the fans foolish enough to buy tickets for this greatest hits tour.
You were/are the only one with any class out of the group. Wolfie might be a great kid, but nobody can replace you.
Good luck and God bless.
Y from Carleton Place, Ontario
Mikey, I hope I can speak for many other VH fans when I say I'm absolutely stunned at the disloyalty and disrespect the VH brothers have shown you throughout this ordeal. But more than that, your refusal to publicly denigrate and smear them in return shows to all of us just what an amazing, level headed guy you are. Thank you for setting an example that we can all use in life: whatever happens, happens. Chin up and move on. Hope you and Sam can find time to come South (Atl) and allow me to spend my concert money (whatever my wife allows HAHA) on you guys!!
wow, gotta say you are a stand up guy. I will probably go to the VH show as I have never been to one, and as a semi pro bassist inspired by you years ago... I am sincerely upset that you won't be there.....just might keep me home that nite...Peace Bro...
Mike,
You (just like Sammy) are a class act, as well as a great performer and musician.
Loyal fans would have gained so much more if the line-up was reunited. Page and Plant made the same mistake by excluding JPJ.
VH fans looking for a lasting, kick-azz rock line-up will find Sam and Mike.
MA...
You're a class act..and a good man.
I got $$$$ sitting here - you and Sammy come to North Carolina and it's yours!! I'm not spending it on the "reunion" - thats for sure!!!!!!!
I won't be seeing any Van Halen reunion tour because there's not one to be seen. You were as big a part of Van Halen as anyone else; I'll catch the Sammy and Mikey show if you guys get into the Southeast!
You are a class act Mike! Too bad the brothers are not. I join the long list of people NOT supporting the "reunion" tour.
Mike,
Well said. You are a class act. Sammy is as well. You guys put the fun in all of the VH shows I saw since 1987. I hope you guys bring your act to Boston soon. Take care.
Steve
I've never had the honor of ever meeting any band member of VH in all it's incarnations, however I have many friends who have met Mr. Michael Anthony.
Whether they conversed with you at the In N Out Burger on the way to Vegas in your Vette, or even doing your landscaping at your home, in every story, "The nicest guy", "down to earth", "the guy next door" seemed to resonate with each and every story.
It takes much too be that humble, it raises the bar for many of us to achieve and many of us who will never achieve.
My compliments Mr. Anthony you are truly the Man. Rock On.
Suzuki - Orange County, CA
wow i give you credit i don't i could not be so graceful if i were in your shoes. hope i'll see you on the sammy tour
Michael Anthony,
YOU ARE INDEED A CLASS ACT
Mike,
You are truly a gentleman. Throughout the years of VH turmoil you've remained courteous, kind, and above reproach. I really admire that you've risen above the pettiness that followed the band over the years, and wish you success in all your endeavors. Obviously it's not gonna be the same without you... but I'll take your advice and not judge the kid too harshly :)
Mike,
Your the best it's a shame that that Eddie and Alex are ruining the legacy of one of, if not the best American band.
I grew up listening to all of VH, and wished that I could of seen some early shows. I finally saw VH with Sammy (1st of many shows upto the the reunion) on the Monsters of Rock tour in Los angeles, with Scorpions, Dokken, Kingdom Come, and Metallica (coming out party to the masses).
If the VH brothers ever cared about their fans they would of put on a 2:30-to 3:00 hour show (ala Rush), splitting the time between Sammy and Dave.
Sammy and you have always been standup guys and appreciate the great shows you put on (saw you at the blockbuster)
Your the best, thank you for showing everybody what class and dignity are all about! At the end of the day you gotta be able to look yourself in the mirror, and you certainly can.
See you soon on tour.
Respectfully,
Bernard
Big Fan
Mike... Your a Class Act "Numero Uno!!!. Thru & Thru dude...
Hi Mike! Saw you with VH three times in Cleveland and twice in Pittsburgh, and the upcoming VH tour -- I'll believe it when I see it -- is merely the greatest VH cover band ever (aside from Dave's band on the Sam/Dave tour in 2002). I thought Eddie would come to his senses after getting out of rehab, but I guess I was wrong. VH without Mad Anthony is no VH. Thanks for the music; you're the best. Rock on with Sammy, and take care!
Hey, Mike, you and Sammy are so much bigger than the Eddie's ego...
Come to Brazil with Sam, give to us the show that Eddie and the others are not gonna do!
Take care...
Totally sucks that VH FINALLY tours with Roth again, and you won't be there. We wait all these years, and it still won't really be the Van Halen we've been waiting over 20 years to see again. DAMN IT!!! I was just barely too young to see the 1984 tour (thanks, Mom), so I never got to see the original line-up, and I probably never will.
I primarily blame the VH bros, but I guess you're not totally blameless yourself. You knew the VH bros had a problem with Sammy, and you essentially chose to join Sammy (even though you would've done the VH tour if asked). But choosing friendship over a band isn't necessarily a bad choice, even if it is the mighty VH. It's your life, and you're living it your way, and I can't help but respect that. I also can't help but respect the class you showed when blogging about the upcoming tour. I may or may not go, but it definitely won't be a cool without you on stage!
VH is a good act , saw you back in Rogue's Gallery days in V.Beach. Was not too crazy about the Van Hager days,sounded too much like muzak. Sammy is good on his own, w/ Montrose and you two together. Good luck look forward and never look back.
Mike, you are awesome, dude! Get The Other Half to this other half of the World!
Love from Tel Aviv,
Hugo
Mike,
That is extremely gracious of you. Still, I will miss yours and Sammy's presence on the VH tour this October. You guys rock!!
--Chris
It'll be nice to have you bring the band around Canada once in a while. Especially during the cold winter months. Your a fantasic player Mike and there's always a good time to be had whenever you and Sam are around. Best wishes.
Hey Michael, well done; way to take the high road. You are a class act. Best of luck to you.
YOU sir, are a CLASS ACT! An example for any musician or performer to follow.
Cheers, Mike!
You have always been and continue to be a true class act. I am very torn about seeing this new Van Halen tour. You are a big reason why VH still has fans after such long periods of hearing absolutely nothing "official" about the band. There has been way too much drama. All I want is to hear my favorite band play some great songs at ear-bleeding volume. I wish you could be a part of that.
Thank you for always taking the high road no matter what is said about you or Sammy or Dave. Rock on!!!
WasabiMan
Mike,
You are such an influence to people all around you. VH could take some lessons in class from you. They bash you and Sammy and you tip your bass to them and say have fun and keep rockin. We need more people like you Mad Anthony!
Keep rockin,
Duane
Class: pure class! I always knew you were the brains of the VH outfit....now you just confirmed it!
Save to say: I'll be at The Other Side shows!!!
Mr. Anthony,
A band without the origanl members is not the same band. Although, I am a big Eddie Van Halen fan and the bottom line is what makes Van Halen is Eddie Van Halen. Eddie's son will take your place but 99.9% of the people who go see Van Halen is to see Eddie. In conclusion, you are and always will be part of Van Halen in my books.
mikey!
sorry you weren't invited to tour w/the other 3/4 of VH. i have lost all respect for eddie, and alex (for not opening his fat yapper and setting eddie straight!!) you and sammy made VH fun , now, sadly, the once mighty Van Halen has been reduced to a joke. maybe someday it will all work out. anyhow, you and sammmy party it up and move on. your both better off staying out of that mess. good luck!!!! maybe someday our paths will cross.
jimbo141
Mike,
What can I say... you truly are a class act all the way. For 23 years I thought I was a huge VH fan, but turns out I'm a huge Michael Anthony fan instead. Thanks for all the great music through the years and for always being so accommodating to us fans. YOU are the heart and soul of VH. Take care and don't ever stop rocking out buddy.
Ledge from CT
I know that you're probably sick of hearing the same old "VH is nothing without you Mike", but I'm afraid I'm going to have to continue with the obvious.
VH has been my all time favorite band since I was a teenager when I first discovered your music. VH is also the main reason I'm a musician myself today.
One of the main things that attracted me to VH was not the guitar playing of Ed as one might think, but the way you guys arranged your vocal parts. YOU are the vocal "sound" of VH, not Dave, not Sam (not cutting on either one of them in the least, just praising you good sir), it's YOU.
Since VH's inception, thru all the ups and downs, YOU have been the rock solid member of the group. You are one of the strongest bass players in rock music today and an amazing showman on stage. You are a class act Mike, the things you said on stage at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony (about Ed and his rehab situation) were very cool of you to say. The way you're getting the full on prison raping SHAFT over this whole VH reunion literally breaks my heart and makes me sick to my stomach. VH is nothing without you, period. How Ed went from being THE coolest and most laid back guy on the planet to being the biggest A-hole of all time staggers me. This reunion with Dave could have been history in the making and something I've been waiting to see for 2 decades. But without you Mike, it's just a pitiful sham.
God bless you Mike, thanks for everything you've brought to music and by all means, keep on keepin on!
-Todd P. in Orlando FL
Mike,
I support you man, I saw you doing the Roth/Hagar Hagar/Roth tour when you hit Kansas City a few years back. I also saw you and Sammy with VH in 1992. You are a class act, but Van Halen with Roth singing is too much to pass up. I respect Wolfie cause he is the son of Edward and I hope the rest of VH nation will do the same.
Here's to all of you guys getting on the same stage, Sammy included, for the tour to end all tours. Keep rocking my friend...
Mike, you're a class act in the face of adversity and odd circumstances. We love ya.
MA,
You were one of my first radio interviews in Phoenix over 15 years ago in the lobby of the Phoenician Resort. After the interview you asked me where there were any good rock bars to drop in at. I told you of a couple and then I heard you actually dropped by one of them and jammed with the band. The next day was your show at Desert Sky Pavilion and after the show was the long line for the meet and greet and ten second photo op. You saw me in line and yelled out my name and said thanks for the information on clubs, and that really impressed me. You made a kid just into radio feel comfortable interviewing one of his favorite musicians. And I thank you for that. I have seen VH with DLR twice as a kid (including US festival) and twice with Sammy. Thank you for great memories, and for being a stand up guy. I am sorry politics invaded what should have been a great reunion. I will make sure I check out your band when they come thru Phoenix .
YOU ARE A CLASS ACT..
MIke, your are the 4th and 5th member of VH. Eddie and Alex have make a joke out of VH. I seen Dave and Sammy when they toured together and it was sad to see dave acting like it was 1984 and singing BAD. I look forward to seeing you and sammy here in Grand Rapids.
Good Luck and chin up. They Really messed this up...
Right onmikey!@
Mike,
Hello, it's a disgrace that you aren't on the upcoming VH tour. I'm quite shure this tour will fail. Too many ego's, and too much BS.
I saw VH at the US Festival in Devore, Cal in 1983 infront of 450,000 people. That was a show.
Replacing you with Wolfgang, is an insult. Where are they going to get those background harmonies? You are the VH sound!
This is why, I won't be attending the VH shows. I'll be seeing you and Sammy in Green Bay, WI.
I wish the best to you, your a classy guy that was screwed. The best to you!
John,
Michigan
I have to agree with the others,
you have handled the Van halen line up change in stand up fashion !
Took my 11 yr. old son to see zz top this year, his idea!
I am definetely taking him to see you and Sammy if you come to San Diego !
MIKEY !!! Gots my MIKEY shot glass, gots my OTHER HALF shirt, when the hell, no Southern Cali Sammy show's ?!?! Though I am a Huge VH fan, I will not be at a single show, you're not there what's the point, man....MUCH RESPECT..............KEEP ROCKIN' MY BRUTHA......Alfonso Sanabria
We'll miss you Mike. all you bloggers should take the same high road.
As far as Dave goes i'm sure he had a lot of the issues with the bros that
Sam and Mike may have had.Also I have never heard Dave say anything negative about mike through all the years of turmoil with VH.Also it seems to me that Mike and Dave were tight when the original band was together, so maybe its always been the bros and the other half. If you were in Dave's shoes you would tour as well.
With that said, its too bad it didnt come together.
Yes, you ARE a class act....but maybe that's the WaboRita's talking....
if you ever need a bass player to cover a gig for you (that's not 15 year old), then give me a call....I've been to Cabo twice so far, and ALWAYS ben a VH fan!!
\sincerely, John Pells
Mike,
I have to admit that I have to go see VH. The music you helped create is the very fiber of my life and has been since '78! I will have a good time and enjoy seeing Dave up there again. But I also must leave this saying - We (your fans) don't know that behind the scenes (only what we read online and in the mags)... and you will be missed! Your playing abilities, YOUR BACKGROUND VOCALS, your positive and rocking stage presence! We will see you and Sammy too - again, you have created MONSTER fans and I am just as loyal to you and Sammy. It is a shame that it is not a true reunion, but when dealing with HUMANS BEING - this is what we get!
Faithful since '78,
Gerry G
You are the class in this act, Sir Mike! Rock on and Rock hard!
Mr. Anthony - the VH bro's seem to forget how much of a big part of VH you were and are. It is their loss man. You are a great sport and all the best dude.
Van Halen without Michael Anthony is NOT Van Halen. Sorry Eddie. You blew it. I know you love your kid, but he ain't no Michael Anthony and those distinct vocals will be sorely missed. What the hell is it with you and Alex? Can't get along with Roth for years. Can't get along with Sammy. Gave Gary a raw deal because you didn't have the balls to stand up to the shirts. And now this crap with Michael Anthony. This tour COULD have been great fun, but you won't get a penny of my money. Wolfgang will probably crap himself the first time he walks on stage. Michael, keep on rockin and SCREW those idiot Van Halen brothers.
Michael,
You are a class act and one bad ass motherf@#$ing bass player. Those chumps are gonna' realize what they did when the "new band" blows up in their faces. VH with no MA is like a sack with no balls. The music will be weak without Mad Anthony! I don't pay people to be pricks, I pay to see Rock. I can't wait to see you and Sam out in the Dallas, TX area! Steve
MA your one of a kind! i am going to the reunion but it won't be the same w/o you!
your skill, stage presence, backing vocals and antics cannot be duplicated by wolfie!
best wishes and keep on rockin (with the chair)
frank,pa
Mikey,
Thanks for taking the high road...any chance we'll see you El Paso????
Hey Mike ! One comment !!
CLASS ACT !!
See you in Lake Tahoe !!
PJ
Hey mike, I've been a TRUE VH fan since I'm 10 years old (35 now)You are a TRUE GENTLEMAN and you've always performed at 100% My hats off to you! I wish other people had as much INTEGRITY as you have.
I've been a fan from day one, and I've always said Van Halen is Eddie, Alex and Mike, no matter who the lead singer is. Without you, Van Halen is just another band. You are all class, and prove it everytime you talk, especially when you try to explain why the Van Halen brothers are dumb enough to keep you off the reunion tour. Thanks for giving us music that's changed our lives. You truly deserve more than the Van Halens are giving you. Good luck on your tour with Sammy, and keep rocking....
Read your comments and was blown away from your class act! Screw those guys if they want to act like that. Besides, you've aged very gracefully. No offense, but Eddie, Dave, and Alex look like they should be in Geritol, Poly Grip, and Depends commercials. I have a lot of respect for your attitude. Keep rockin dude~
CLASS ACT!!!!! Mike continue to take the high road! It's not a reunion without YOU in the lineup, See you on the road.
Chris
Mike,
I can't wait to see you witgh Sammy. It's so sad you're not part of this tour but I'm glad you've got such a great friend in Hagar and Cherone. Thanks for keeping it dignified. You and Sammy at the Rock and Roll Hall of fame just proved it entirely that you guys are the 2 class acts. I don't care what anyone says and I won't judge Wolf harshly, but you are the one and only backing vocal for Van Halen. Even David Lee Roth could've stepped up at the Hall of fame and proved what a better man is.That's what I'd expect though. As for Sammy's comment that hopefully you'll get nyour friend back, well, I don't think EVH is anyones friend. You're better off with Sammy. Keep on rockin dudes. See you in Chicago.
Tony
Mike,
It won't be Van Halen without you... who are they going to get to sing all the screaming BGV's?!?!?
Don't worry, I have nothing against Wolfgang. I am sure he is a good kid... a good kid with a dad who is pushing him into things a 16 year old should not have to deal with. I don't blame Wolf... I blame Ed.
You rule. Have fun with Sammy this summer.
Mike
Hey Mike!
I had a great time talking to you last night at the car show and thanks for letting my daughter take our picture together!
I was just checking your tour schedule and I don't see any dates in So. Cal.!!
Dorothy
It is what it is Mike. Keep doing what makes YOU happy. Perhaps in time???
hey man - i ment to put keep on rockin (withOUT the chair!!!)
----sorry, ya know when i was typing i was just thinking about how your the most ALIVE person in both the other half and van halen!!!
next time yous come the philadelphia area... i am there!!!
you ROCK!
frank,pa
Mikey, Mikey, Mikey! I have seen every VH concert to hit Detroit since the band's inception. Now that you are touring with Sammy, I've got tickets for that show too at the Fox Theatre. Then VH decided that they were going to dump you in favor of Wolfie (not Wolfie's fault) and I'm going to the show at Joe Louis. I'm a true fan and would love to see everyone bury the hatchet and tour together and even include Wolfie in the mix. Someone once told me rock stars have huge egos. From what I can tell, you and Sammy seem to be a little more grounded than the others and definately in the "class act" portion of the room. Oh yeah, my "date" for the concert is my 11 year old son who plays my electric guitar when he thinks that I don't know it and who has confiscated all my vinyl and put it on his IPOD. I've created a monster here, but I wish you the best. You are truly a class act. Give Sammy a kiss for me and tell him that I once got pulled over for doing 105 in a 55 and got let go (yeah, my dad knew the cop!). Peace & Love, Gayle
Though I am excited to see the VH tour next month, I will miss your presence. My favorite incarnation of the Band is you, Eddie, Alex and Dave but I am a fan of the Sammy and Gary era. You are a class act and an outstanding bass player and thank you for 30 years of some of the greatest rock songs ever written. ...Maybe there is a Michael Anthony solo project in the near future?...
c'mon moderator i knew u wouldnt put my comment on..i said nothing bad about mike...i said mikes 2 talented 2 work 4 hagar...mikes a good singer and i said he should startr hi own band..why have this blog if u play god 2 wat gets on here...i talked good about mike,,,c'mon dude chill and let my last comment on and not this comment....mikes cool and we love him.....marshall
this blog is unfair bcuz this pick and choose comments is bullshit...i talked good about mike..i dont like hagar but most people dont like that leach hagar...put my 1st comment on....most people dont even come 2 this website and there is no way in hell every person kiss's mikes ass like we c on here...this is bullshit and u know it..ur makeing mike look bad with ur pick and choose comments......marshall.. louisiana
MIKIE!!
You are a TRUE example of a class act. I've been listening to Van Halen since I was 12. (I'm 16 going on 17) I saw you guys in Greensboro on the 2004 reunion tour. It was AWSOME!! You and Sammy ARE Van Halen. I'm tired of Ed acting like an ass. This is the end of the line for him. Hes lost many of his fans...but whats good is..they all seem to come to you and Sammy!! Which is great! Thanks for being the REAL "Human Being"--no pun intended....
Rock on man!!!
Ben
aems5150@msn.com
You are a class act. You included Gary in your Hall of Fame comments and now this. I got nothing but love for you man!
Van Halen is just not Van Halen without you. I am very glad I found this web site, it is wonderful to check in with you and see what you are up too. Even us moms of teenagers remember the days hanging out with your music!
Glad to see your still rockin' on! Good Luck!
Mike, you are a true class act! What you said about Wolfgang was truly magnanimous! It also sucks that you won't be on that tour. Without your bass playing skill and vocal harmonies, it won't be worth seeing. I think its a crime you won't be on the tour. After all the ego troubles between various members, you were always uninvolved and seemed to stay friends with everyone. You've been done a disservice and I wouldn't pay a cent to see the new VH tour. You and Sammy keep it real. Rock on!
As somebody whose favorite band has been Van Halen since I heard 1984 at age 10, I'm excited about the upcoming VH tour. I'll happily go, and I'm sure I'll have a blast.
Still, I will miss seeing Mike. I understand that if Ed wants to tour with his kid, there was nothing Mike could do. But at the end of the day, I'm glad I did get to see Mike in concert, and I really appreciate him as the one guy of that group that always seemed to love touring and playing for the fans.
Good luck and keep playing.
Thanks, Mike.
Van Halen will not be the same without you, Mike. I started playing bass 23 years ago because you were and still are one of my biggest influences. Thanks a lot for being such a class act!
Check it out Mike... You playing a ZZ Topp Song...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUl7gkWZJGI
Mike, I've folowed VH for 3 decades going back to the days when you guys played in the lounge at the Bowling Alley in Duarte...(ouch) People used to say "HE is the luckiest man alive, All he has to do is keep up with Al" Time and again You take the high road-- You are truly the "anti" rock star a man of high morals regardless. Stay strong brother we Love ya
Hey Mike,
I've been a huge VH fan my whole life, and this reunion tour simply isn't VH.
Awesome of you to take the high road on this. To think, all these years I've been idolizing the wrong dude.
Mike,
You've proven you're a class act with your comments about Wolfgang. In this day and age, you rarely see such class from celebrities, or at least the ones that get all the press. While I'm sure they'll do fine, there's nothing like the original VH. Maybe some day we'll get to see a true reunion tour.
Take care, man! And thanks for all the great music over the years.
Mikey
As usual, you are the CLASSIEST guy in rock and roll! That's why we love you so much.
Can't wait to see you & Sam. Let's rock!
Mike,
It takes a HELL of a man to take the high road, and I'm proud of you. In my opinion you are the heart of the VH formula. The awesome vocals and the big bottom line are going to be missed, and it will be appearent when VH tours. The job you did on the VHIII tour speaks for itself. You are a class act.
Hey Mike! All I can do now is keep importing your hot sauce and loving it. Come down to Australia and we'll have a huge BBQ!! Nobody is ever going to forget you, your attitude and your great bass playing. Thanks for being so inspirational and down to Earth. It is much appreciated.
Emjayess
Hey Mike
I have tickets to the VH show at the ACC in Toronto on Oct 7th. I am excited about the show but I am dissapointed that you will not be there to rock our socks off. I saw you in Calgary,Canada on the VH 2004 tour and I thought you were amazing. I was in the pit next to you, we had the Canadian flags and you talked to my wife while Sammy was doing his solo and you signed our flags, it was a great time.I will enjoy this show but i will keep in mind that YOU are a huge part of VH and nobody can change those great vocals and bass guitar.
I am sure I will see you again when you and Sammy bring your tour to Canada. There is lots of fans up here waiting.
Take care Mad Anthony
Mark J
Hey Mike,
As we all know, things change for one reason or another. No true Van Halen fan will ever forget the great years you put into the band. I don't think it's any disrespect to you at all, just think Eddie wanted the opportunity to play with his kid. Now you get to kick ass with The Red Rocker and write a new chapter in rock-n-roll history and your life. Rock On Dude!!
Mike,
I understand why you didn't post my last post but just know it's respect and love to you and that I'm pissed you got shafted on this tour. Like a couple of other posters from Canada have already mentioned please GET UP HERE! Make sure Vancouver is on the list.
See you in Cabo,
Noel Mercer
Vancouver BC
Your picture should be in the dictionary for the following terms:class act, honor,honorable, the best, and skilled. Those clowns will not see 1 dime of my money. There is no Van Halen without you.
Hi Mike,
I met you once through Big G's family; everyone always said the best things about you.
I wonder if VH is going to hire back-up singers. Have a great tour w/ Sammy. He's cool and we get two great rock n roll tours!
Mike,
Like everyone else said, you are one hell of a classy, whiskey-drinking, rock and rollin' dude!
nice that you take the high road on the VH tour.
And I'm sure Wolf will cover the bass parts.
BUT, I somehow doubt the VOCALS will be on par without you.
cheers
-mardel monet
prescott, AZ
Did I see a misprint in Rolling Stone? Van Halen reunion tour? Man, this really sucks, and I can only assume from all of the past reports over 20 years, that Eddie Van Halen truly must be an asshole (get over it folks). They didn't even ask Michael Anthony back to play bass for the VH tour, IF it lasts (the buses haven't started rolling yet). Instead, they have Eddie's sixteen year old kid. I am sure he is fantastic, and refuse to dog a child, but he will never have the harmony that Michael has, which is the FIRST thing I was looking forward to hearing, aside from "Hot for Teacher."
I really want to see this show, but after 22 years, if Eddie can finally put up with Dave, he is doing a huge disservice to his fans in discluding Michael, not to mention to Michael himself. The only way I am going is if I get a free ticket. I am extremely disappointed, because Michael hands down carries the harmonies. I would love to hear any thoughts, so send me a message. myspace.com/abbyguss
I am so disappointed Michael!!!!!!
I so wanted to hear your voice!!!!!!!!!!!!
Abby
By the way, thank you for informing your fans correctly, and in such a respectful manner.
Mike,
If the Bros. VH really gave a damn about the fans, you'd be up there this fall. You will be sorely missed.
The upcoming tour is to true VH fans as if, say The Beatles had announced a reunion in 1979 and, by the way, we've replaced George Harrison with Julian Lennon! A crescendo of excitement followed by "what???", and then a disappointed, "well, we'll take what we can get."
I read the interview where you said that your and Ed's background vocals were as much a part of the VH sound as any other element in the band. That's an understatement. You were being very modest, MA. I doubt any fan would dispute that the three hallmarks of the VH sound are - 1) the lead singer (whoever it may be) 2) Ed's guitar and 3) YOUR vocal harmonies. Take away any one of these three and the VH magic is gone. Like Abby said earlier, "Michael carries the harmonies." The "new" Van Halen will pale without you.
Also, I saw you in D.C. in '04 and you sounded solid gold just like you did in '78...wish I could say the same for others in the current lineup.
Yo Mike,
Just here to say that you are truly a stand up guy and to go on with your professional life after VH is one of the most graceful moves in the history of Rock. I hope you & Sam kick much ass for the rest of your tour.
You guys were the my generation's LED ZEPPELIN!! I've seen you 8 times with both front men since 1980 (I'm 45). I've always said that Van Halen were the ONLY band that were on Zeppelin's lengendary status. But with this punk move by Edward (no disrespect to Wolfie), VH NOW will never come close to the legend of Zeppelin. If he were in the Bronx we'd teach him a lesson in respect & Friendship.
Again much success and respect!!!
"Da Bronx Bomer" George B.
Hi Mike,
You are one of the coolest guys in rock n roll scene. And I bet Sammy is too. your contribution to VH music is enormous. You will always have a very special place,in rock history.
And the way that you and Sammy hang out on stage makes me be in your band.You really know how to party!!!
It would be great if you came to play in Mexico city.
Have a great time touring with Sammy! I know you will.
Guillermo.
I read your article on MTV.com news about everything involving Van Halen. It's obvious that Eddie is just acting like a child and is threatened by your success with Sammy, so you'd be wasting your time if you did tour with them because it's a train wreck waiting to happen. You are so important to the Van Halen legacy and if Ed doesn't want to acknowledge that, it's his loss.
You're right about Wolfie being in the lion's den, too!
HAVE FUN WITH SAMMY! I hope I can catch you on one of the stops!!
MA,
I love the fact that you have the GT on the website. I was there when you drove Sammy's RED GT in front of the Fox in DETROIT. Sammy nearly ran my foot over as he tried to shift the gears on your Blue and White GT... (go ahead and tell him)!
As soon as Sammy's Nov. 2 show was announced and it was confirmed that you'd be there again I bought my tix. Then along came this VH thing and.. whatever...
See ya again at DETROIT's FOX THEATER!!!
Hi Mike, coming to the AHS 72 reunion this October? Tons of our classmates would love to see you! Without you, there is no Van Halen, so as for their upcoming tour, who cares!
Bob Whitmore
mikey were did you get your moderator for this blog. if you write the remotest thing about EDDIE the cesorious bast**d wont post it. sammy blog does not have this problem to the extent your blog does.
Mike,
You showed a lot of class in asking fans to be nice to Wolfgang. Hopefully they're respect your wishes. I think everyone knows this tour would be better with you on it, too bad that didn't happen. Your playing and vocals are a big part of what makes the band cook. Thanks for all the great stuff you've done,best wishes.
Michael
This is probably childish, but I hope they SUCK without you & Sammy.
Correction, that would be SUCK.
Mike,
I know it might mean a whole lot but I didn't even think about buying tickets to the Van Halen show after them not having you with them. I would have seen VH with Hagar or Roth but it just didn't make sense for you to be cut out. The "Unsung Hero" of Van Halen has to be acknowleged. I know my one or two tickets won't make a big difference in the scheme of things to Eddie, Alex and Dave but I hope it might mean a bit to you. I know I'm not missing a damn thing...
Troy
Mike, you are all class hence why you will be missed not playing with Van Halen. They can delete you image off album covers and other assorted images, however they will never change the copies i have. I would like to wish you nothing but the very best.
David Jay
michael:
you are classy, cool, decent, sincere in the midst of all this vh stuff! and beyond words for taking note to fans to leave the kid alone-I totally agree...
however, and nothing to do with the kid-just his family-I opt not to go to their concert.....it is too bitter sweet for a long time fan...
dino
Mike -
Just finished reading your interview with Rolling Stone. Once again, my friend, you have taken the high road (as you always do) in dealing with this whole Van Halen mess. I will not be attending their concert in St. Louis, but will sure be there for you and Sam the Man. Rock on, Mikey - you are a genuinely nice human being. That sure as hell counts for something in my book!
Cheers!
Joann
Mike.
I'm really excited to see VH on tour again.I have been listening to that great music since I was 15.I'm 42 now.As much as I want to see this show I am really going to miss you man.I've seen you guys 12-13 times and it just won't be the same.You guys have been a huge part of my life.Hell dude,after hearing Alex I had to go buy a drum kit.And I'm still playing today.Luv you guys man,you and Sam.I'll be lookin' for ya.Don't pass up Crapchester NY.--Al
Mike,
You & Sammy are a class act. We saw you play the Pond in 04 and we couldn't hear for days but even that didn't wipe the smiles from our faces! Wolfie can play some guitar and probably has been practicing the bass too, but he'll (or anybody else for that matter) will come close to having the ability or the vocal cords that you do.
Keep kickin ass!
Excellent attitude Mike , you're great , a BIG thumbs up!
Wolfang must replace Eddie, not Mike.
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