Former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony has opened up about regretting the unresolved “issues” between him and the late Eddie Van Halen.
Speaking on the Talkin’ Rock With Meltdown podcast (via Ultimate Classic Rock), Anthony revealed that the pair had not spoken for years prior to Van Halen’s death in October 2020.
“We actually hadn’t spoken [for years] – unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to. And, you know, it bothers me because we had some issues that were never resolved,” he said.
“But what can you do? We were on track for the reunion, which I’m really sad – that it never happened. But, you know – life, and the show goes on.”
Later in the interview, Anthony also recalled seeing Eddie perform for the first time.
“We were just out of high school, and in the city where I lived, they were having a carnival on the field for the school. And on the weekends, they would have a few local bands play. And it was just the three guys — Eddie, [original bassist] Mark Stone and Alex [Van Halen]. And Eddie was doing the singing also. That’s the first time I ever saw him play,” he said.
“I remember I was impressed because they played — they must’ve played the whole Who Live at Leeds or whatever, or any of the classic Cream stuff they played, Eddie played the lead stuff note for note. And back then, when you’re a kid like that, that’s very impressive to see somebody playing like that.”
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Following Eddie’s death, Anthony uploaded a video tribute with fellow bandmember Sammy Hagar.
“It’s very surreal right now, and it hasn’t sunk in yet,” Anthony said at the time.
“It hit like a Mack truck. Took the wind out of the sails,” Hagar agreed.
The pair ended their tribute by saying, “We love you, Eddie.”
Check out Michael Anthony discussing Eddie Van Halen:
