In 2023, Sammy Hagar again discussed his feud with Eddie Van Halen and pointed to two other catalysts: substance abuse and personal issues. Speaking with USA Today, Hagar expressed his love for the legendary musician and his regret over the pair's feud progressing over the years. "What happened with us at the end was such a shame," he said. "It's what happens when alcohol and drugs are involved, and I'm going through a divorce. It's such a shame. If Van Halen were still together today, we'd be headlining every one of these festivals all over the world."

The group's substance abuse is no secret, with their personal manager (and fixer), Noel Monk, even penning a book — "Runnin' with the Devil: A Backstage Pass to the Wild Times, Loud Rock, and the Down and Dirty Truth Behind the Making of Van Halen" — that spotlighted such issues, among many others. "Too much talent and too much ego, too many disparate personalities, too much drugs and alcohol," Monk wrote (per the Daily Mail). "They had to be great right from the beginning, because there was no way it could last."

According to Monk, the group  — whose mantra was "Drink a bottle of booze, pop a couple 'ludes, smoke a joint or two (or 10) and see where the night takes you" — was a reflection of the "West Coast surfer, stoner, and partying culture."

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

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