Sammy Hagar | #013 The Kenny Aronoff Sessions

Kenny welcomes one of rock music's most dynamic and prolific artists, The Red Rocker himself, Sammy Hagar, to the podcast this week. This rock superstar has transcended the music industry to become a prolific songwriter, guitarist, and visionary businessman. From founding the iconic Cabo Wabo Cantina to launching his own tequila and rum brands, Sammy's creativity knows no bounds. Today, he and Kenny dive deep into his inspiring journey, uncovering the stories behind his many ventures, his hit song "Father Time”, complete with a performance of it featuring Kenny on drums, the driving force behind his philanthropy, and his realization of his true purpose in life.

In this candid conversation, Sammy and Kenny share stories about their collaboration in Chickenfoot, noting the mutual respect they have for each other's professionalism, and give us a glimpse into the inner workings of Van Halen's writing process, revealing the creative genius behind some of the most iconic rock songs. Sammy opens up about the inspiration behind his various projects and his ambitious plans for “Cabo Wabo Resort” and "Sammy's Island" - a resort that embodies his passion for music, food, and entertainment. He and Kenny also go on to explore their mutual fascination with wine and love for the simple pleasures in life. Through this episode, you will witness the indomitable spirit of Sammy Hagar, a true rock icon, as he embraces his purpose of spreading joy and making the world a better place through his art and philanthropy. Listen in and prepare yourself to go on an unforgettable journey with the Red Rocker himself and be inspired by his unstoppable spirit and undeniably authentic approach to life.

Episode Highlights:

• Sammy and Kenny’s rehearsal
• Kenny’s story of joining Chickenfoot
• Sammy and Kenny’s mutual appreciation
• Van Halen’s writing process
• Sammy’s many projects and the inspiration behind them
• His plans for “Cabo Wabo Resort” and “Sammy’s Island”
• Sammy and Kenny’s wine interests
• Sammy’s story of writing “Father Time”
• A rehearsal of “Father Time”
• Sammy’s vision for his career and the impact it’s had
• His purpose in life

Quotes:

"He's always creating. He never stops thinking of ideas. I love it. He crushes it every time because he loves what he does, otherwise he's not doing it."

"I'm a lucky son of a gun, you know that. I am lucky. I just run into a guy, and I'm saying, 'Man, I want to start this new thing,' and boom, that's how it works for me."

"The less information on a bottle of wine, the more usually personal it is… so I like a simple bottle. That always gets my attention."

"I get bored real quick. Except for with my wife."

“I want a resort. Sammy's Resort World. Everything Sammy. Basically, Sammy's Island. Like, if you went to my island, I'd have everything there for you.”

"I'm not afraid to quit a band and join another one. I'm not afraid to start a band and say, 'I've got this idea. I want to play with that guy, that guy, that guy.' I'm not afraid to do that."

“I really realize that I'm here to help people, period. I don't care what it is. I can help them financially. I can help them through hard times. I can help them. I give money away to hospitals all the time, to children. I am here to make your world a better place.

Links:

Kenny Aronoff

Sammy Hagar