Samuel Roy Hagar (born October 13, 1947 in Monterey, California, USA), better known as Sammy Hagar, is a U.S. rock guitarist, singer, and composer.
After a brief career as a boxer in the footsteps of his father, Sammy became interested in the burgeoning Southern California music scene, fronting his first band, "The Fabulous Castiles". Hagar's first major success, however, came from his work with the group Montrose on their debut and sophomore albums, including the Hagar-penned song " Bad Motor Scooter". After difficulties with the band's founder, Ronnie Montrose, during a European tour, Sammy departed from the group with bassist Bill Church and drummer Denny Carmassi in tow.
Hagar commenced a solo recording and touring career to increasing success, enjoying hits such as Red, Heavy Metal, Three Lock Box, and perhaps his best-known song I Can't Drive 55, a gripe against the (now-repealed) federally-imposed speed limit of 55 miles per hour on all U.S. highways. In 1983-84 Sammy Hagar and Neal Schon formed HSAS ( Hagar Schon Aaronson Shrieve) along with former Foghat bassist Kenny Aaronson and former Santana drummer Michael Shrieve. HSAS did a small Christmas tour to benefit local charities and which released one album, Through the Fire. As intended from its start, HSAS was a short-lived project. One song in particular, a cover of Whiter Shade of Pale received some airplay but never charted.
After parting ways with popular vocalist David Lee Roth, the remaining members of the band Van Halen contacted many people looking for a vocalist. Thanks to Eddie's appreciation of Montrose and his car mechanic's suggestion, they auditioned and quickly hired Hagar to fill the opening. With Hagar at the front, Van Halen produced four multi-platinum albums: 5150, OU812, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge, and Balance as well as many number 1 hits. Yet, trouble in paradise eventually ensued, culminating in 1996. Hagar disliked using new songs on the Twister soundtrack and the then-forthcoming Best of Volume 1 CD. Hagar wanted to do a new studio album instead, but only after Eddie (hip -- avascular necrosis), Alex (neck -- dislocated vertebrae?), and Hagar's pregnant wife all got their medical stuff taken care of. Also, Van Halen's new management seemed to clash with the band. Things were never sorted out, and the band split up.