The Johnny Beane Podcast

Ritchie Blackmore’s Emotional Deep Purple Reunion: “Smoke on the Water” Brings It All Back! On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into an incredible rock history moment: Ritchie Blackmore’s emotional reunion with Deep Purple! 🎸🔥 After more than 33 years, Blackmore stepped back onstage with his former bandmates to perform the legendary “Smoke on the Water” at Jones Beach near New York. 🎸 Why This Reunion Was So Special: Ritchie Blackmore hadn’t performed with Deep Purple since 1993! Blackmore says the idea was his, because he wanted to show fans that there were no hard feelings. He told Guitar Player that he felt it could be the last time the band members might see each other. His wife, Candice Night, helped connect him with Ian Gillan, who reportedly responded, “It made me smile.” Blackmore returned to the stage with Ian Gillan, Roger Glover and Ian Paice. He brought out a Stratocaster he had used in the 1980s and played through a 50-watt amp. Blackmore admitted he hadn’t properly played a Strat in about 30 years! He kept his playing simple, letting Simon McBride handle much of the main riff before Blackmore stepped in for his own fills and solo. Blackmore described the moment as incredibly emotional, comparing it to old soldiers from the same army getting back together. 🤘 And Then There Was That Moment… During the performance, Gillan put his hand on Blackmore’s shoulder while singing, and later Blackmore grabbed Gillan’s wrist and placed his hand on the guitar. Afterward, Gillan welcomed Blackmore back, calling him “the founding member, the great legend, the immortal Ritchie Blackmore.” That’s rock history. From the classic Mark II lineup to decades of separation, clashes, reunions and everything in between, seeing Blackmore and Deep Purple sharing the stage again was something nobody knew if they would ever witness. Was this the greatest Deep Purple reunion moment in decades? Would you like to see Ritchie Blackmore perform with Deep Purple again? Let us know in the comments! 🎸 Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV — guitars, rock history, gear, interviews and the stories behind the music! #RitchieBlackmore #DeepPurple #SmokeOnTheWater #GuitarNews

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we’re talking guitar strings, legendary guitars, and one very cool piece of Night Ranger history! 🎸 Guitar Center’s Top 5 Best-Selling Electric Guitar Strings Guitar Center analyzed sales data from more than 300 stores across the U.S., along with its online business, to reveal the electric guitar strings players are buying the most. 🥇 Ernie Ball Regular Slinky 10–46 — The longtime industry standard takes the top spot. 🥈 GHS GBL Boomers Light 10–46 — A surprising second-place finish with their bright, snappy tone and pronounced attack. 🥉 D’Addario NYXL Light 10–46 — The premium NYXL set beats D’Addario’s more affordable EXL series. 4️⃣ DR Strings PHR10 Pure Blues Medium — A wildcard pick featuring a vintage-style round core for a warm, punchy tone. 5️⃣ Elixir NANOWEB Light — The only coated strings in the top five, offering longer life while maintaining a traditional feel. And there’s one interesting thing they all have in common: 10–46 gauge. Ernie Ball may still be king, but the GHS Boomers taking the silver medal is definitely one of the biggest surprises on the list! Then, we take a trip back to 1989 and the famous Guitar World cover featuring Night Ranger guitarist Brad Gillis and his custom 1985 Hamer S-style. Gillis was famously devoted to his 1962 Fender Stratocaster, “Bubba,” so it took a special guitar to get him to put it down. Paul Hamer built the custom Hamer for Gillis, and it featured similarities to Bubba, including PJ Marx pickups and a wireless switching system developed by Gillis’ brother. So why did Brad choose the Hamer for that famous Guitar World cover? His answer says it all: “I was just stroking Hamer, to be honest!” 😂 We also look at the interesting story behind the guitar, the magazine’s original identification mistake, Gillis’ Hamer Scepter, and what eventually happened to the famous 1985 Hamer. What strings are YOU putting on your guitar—and which guitar would you rather own: Brad Gillis’ Hamer or “Bubba”? #GuitarStrings #GuitarCenter #ElectricGuitar #TalkingGuitars

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we read a fascinating story about Ritchie Blackmore, Deep Purple, and one of the most unexpected influences behind the band’s 1984 reunion. Blackmore recently reunited with Deep Purple onstage for the first time in 33 years, joining his former bandmates at New York’s Jones Beach Theater for “Smoke on the Water.” It was an incredible moment for a guitarist who had spent decades away from the band he co-founded. But Blackmore’s first Deep Purple reunion in 1984 had a surprising connection to another legendary group — The Police. After leaving Deep Purple in 1975 to form Rainbow with Ronnie James Dio, Blackmore eventually saw an opportunity to bring the classic Mark II lineup back together. And according to Blackmore himself, part of the reason was what he felt was missing from the rock scene at the time. Speaking to Metal Hammer in 1987, Blackmore bluntly explained: “Everyone was playing like the Police. And can I state here that I hate the Police?” The timing is fascinating. The Police were at the height of their success following their massive 1983 album Synchronicity, while Blackmore felt there was a gap in rock music for something heavier, rawer, and more aggressive. As he put it, “There just wasn’t a band playing that earthy kind of rock.” Blackmore believed Deep Purple could fill that void with their hard-driving, blues-based sound — music he felt didn't have the polished sheen dominating much of the rock world. And he was right. In 1984, the classic Mark II lineup returned with Perfect Strangers, giving Deep Purple a remarkable second chapter. Blackmore remained with the band until 1993, when he left again. Now, more than three decades later, seeing him back onstage with Deep Purple makes this story even more fascinating. So, what do you think — did Ritchie Blackmore have a point about the state of rock music in the 1980s, or was he just being Ritchie Blackmore? #RitchieBlackmore #DeepPurple #ThePolice #TalkingGuitars

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we take a fascinating look back at one of guitar history’s greatest secret supergroups — Biff Baby’s All-Stars — and an incredible story involving Eddie Van Halen and Albert Lee! 🎸 Albert Lee reveals Eddie Van Halen was reluctant to play “Country Boy” with the group because he didn’t think the song fit his style. ⚡ Eddie reportedly told Lee, “I can’t play on that!” 🤘 Lee’s response? “Yes, you can — you can do all that tapping!” 🔥 Eddie went on to prove, once again, that he could step outside his comfort zone and absolutely crush it. ⭐ Biff Baby’s All-Stars featured an unbelievable lineup of musicians, including Albert Lee, Eddie Van Halen, Steve Morse, and Steve Lukather. 🎶 The group played secretive, informal gigs under a strange name, often attracting packed crowds who had no idea which guitar legends might show up. 🏟️ One legendary performance took place at NAMM, a show that fans and musicians continued talking about for years. 📼 Sadly, the group never recorded an official album, leaving only a handful of rough bootleg recordings documenting these incredible jams. It’s another amazing glimpse into Eddie Van Halen’s musical curiosity, versatility, and willingness to jump into styles outside his usual territory. What do you think — would you have loved to see Eddie Van Halen, Albert Lee, Steve Morse, and Steve Lukather jam together live? #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #AlbertLee #SteveMorse

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we travel back 40 years to August 12, 1986! 🤘 Longtime Van Halen fan and drummer Kurt Ekstrom attended his very first Van Halen concert that night—a show he still remembers vividly four decades later. Kurt, a longtime admirer of Alex Van Halen, has written extensively about drums and gear for Not So Modern Drummer and has even appeared on the Drum History Podcast discussing Alex’s legendary setup. Now, 40 years later, Kurt shares his incredible memories of finally seeing his musical heroes—and especially his drumming hero, Alex Van Halen, live for the first time! 🥁🔥 40 years later… the memories are still loud! #VanHalen #AlexVanHalen #ExclusivelyVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

How close can you get to owning a true Eddie Van Halen-inspired masterpiece? 🎸🔥 On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we take a look at the incredible EVH Custom Shop Wolfgang HH guitars available through Sweetwater — battle-scarred, collector-grade instruments designed with Eddie’s legendary, well-worn guitars in mind. From the heavily relic’d striped finish and lightweight basswood body to the sustain-rich bigleaf maple, quarter-sawn maple neck, bird’s-eye maple fingerboard, EVH Wolfgang humbuckers, Kill switch, Floyd Rose tremolo, and D-Tuna, these guitars are loaded with the features that make the Wolfgang unmistakably EVH. But the big question is: Is this the ultimate Wolfgang for an Eddie Van Halen fan and collector? We take a closer look at what makes these Custom Shop guitars so special and why they could be some of the most impressive EVH instruments Sweetwater has ever offered. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #EVHGuitars #WolfgangGuitar

NEW MXR FLANGER/DOUBLER! 🎸 The original MXR Model 126 Flanger/Doubler rack-mount unit was released in 1976 🎸 Want to grab one of these pedals? Use my affiliate link—it won’t cost you anything extra, and your purchase helps support Johnny Beane TV and keep these shows going! https://amzn.to/4xDwrHV On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we check out the brand-new MXR Flanger/Doubler — a modern pedal recreation of the legendary original MXR rack unit! This all-analog pedal brings classic ’70s and ’80s studio textures into a pedalboard-friendly format, with plenty of control for creating your own sounds. 🔥 FEATURES: • All-analog flanger and doubler effects • Authentic bucket-brigade devices • Flanger mode for sweeping jet-engine motion and metallic resonance • Doubler mode for thick, layered tones, chorus, and slapback-style effects • Manual, Width, Speed, Regen, and Mix controls • Two LEDs display instantaneous delay time and modulation activity • Invert switch for unique hollow, airy, or punchy textures • CV In/Out for synths, sequencers, expression pedals, and external control • Line Level switch for handling hotter signals • Designed for vintage tones and experimental soundscapes From classic swirling modulation to thick studio doubling and completely wild textures, the MXR Flanger/Doubler gives you a serious amount of control. 🎸 We take a closer look at this brand-new pedal on Talking Guitars — only on Johnny Beane TV! #MXR #MXRFlangerDoubler #GuitarPedals #GuitarGear

🎸 TALKING GUITARS: DID D’ADDARIO USE AI TO FAKE A GUITAR STRING DEMO? D’Addario has finally admitted that generative AI was used in a controversial promo video for its NYXL HD electric guitar strings — after initially denying it. Here’s what happened: • D’Addario initially denied using AI in the demo • The company provided a Logic session to back up its claims • Guitarists noticed major differences between the session and the final track • D’Addario later blamed AI mixing and mastering tools • LANDR even weighed in on the controversy • D’Addario has now confirmed that Suno Studio was used to regenerate the original track • The company says, “We got this wrong” and apologized • D’Addario also acknowledged that deleting criticism from its social media was a mistake • The company says employees and creative partners will now have to disclose generative AI use 🎸 But does this change the way you look at D’Addario and its products? We talk about the entire controversy on Talking Guitars — Johnny Beane TV! #DAddario #GuitarNews #AI #GuitarCommunity

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen, we dig into a Rolling Stone article highlighting 22 different versions of one of Van Halen’s most iconic songs — from the original 1984 recording to live performances with David Lee Roth, Sammy Hagar, Gary Cherone, Mitch Malloy, Roth solo, Sammy Hagar & Michael Anthony, Wolfgang Van Halen at the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert, David Lee Roth with Foo Fighters, and Roth’s 2026 performance with Teddy Swims! Then we jump into the Zeke Clark Collection at Backstage Auctions, which ends TODAY! We're talking Eddie Van Halen studio-used guitars, amplifiers, stage-used picks, crew passes, crew shirts and tons of incredible Van Halen history. Plus, David Lee Roth played Sturgis last night, and we check out the photos! We also take a look at an unreleased Eddie Van Halen photo from Diver Down, recently released by photographer David Bertinelli as a limited-edition fine art print. https://www.davidpbertinelli.com/ And just posted: Alex Van Halen shares a photo of a Van Halen debut 8-track — could it be from his car? All that, plus more Van Halen news and hanging out with the chat, right here on Johnny Beane TV! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #SammyHagar #Panama

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we’re going back to the legendary 1978 Black Sabbath/Van Halen tour—and one of the craziest stories ever told about David Lee Roth and Ozzy Osbourne! 🔥 Ozzy disappeared. 🔥 Tony Iommi confronted David Lee Roth. 🔥 The FBI and police got involved. 🔥 Black Sabbath even considered canceling the show. 🔥 And then… Ozzy suddenly walked into the hotel lobby wearing his pajamas! So where had he been? According to Roth, Ozzy had mistakenly used an old hotel room key, found the matching room number, kicked out the housekeeper, climbed into bed… and slept for nearly 18 HOURS! 😂 And somehow, David Lee Roth was getting blamed for the whole thing! This is one of the wildest stories from the legendary 1978 Van Halen and Black Sabbath tour—and a perfect example of just how crazy those early Van Halen days could get. What do YOU think really happened to Ozzy that night? 👇 #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #OzzyOsbourne #BlackSabbath

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into Gibson's exciting announcement that the fourth Gibson Garage is coming to the Las Vegas Strip in 2027! Could this become the ultimate destination for guitar players? Forget the late-night wedding chapel—how about waking up with a Custom Shop Murphy Lab Les Paul instead? 🤘 We'll discuss: 🎸 Why Gibson chose Las Vegas for its newest flagship location 🏙️ What makes this 9,000-square-foot Gibson Garage the biggest and boldest yet 🔥 The first-ever Les Paul '59 Experience 🎵 Hands-on access to Gibson, Epiphone, Kramer, Mesa/Boogie, Maestro, and KRK gear 🎨 A dedicated Acoustic Murphy Lab Collection Room featuring Gibson's incredible aging process ⭐ How this new location builds on the success of Nashville, London, and Miami 🎤 Why Gibson says this will be much more than a guitar store—it's a complete music experience Is Gibson creating the ultimate guitar destination on the Las Vegas Strip? Join us as we break down everything we know and what it could mean for guitar players and collectors around the world. #Gibson #GibsonGarage #LasVegas #TalkingGuitars

David Lee Roth's Skyscraper Broke Up His Band? Billy Sheehan Reveals What Really Happened! On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into the story behind David Lee Roth's Skyscraper and why bassist Billy Sheehan says it marked the end of the magic. After the massive success of Eat 'Em and Smile, Roth's all-star band—featuring Steve Vai, Billy Sheehan, and Gregg Bissonette—seemed unstoppable. But behind the scenes, everything changed. We'll discuss: 🎸 Why Billy Sheehan says Skyscraper "felt stiff." 🍻 How the fun, collaborative atmosphere of Eat 'Em and Smile disappeared. 🎙️ Why recording the album one musician at a time changed the band's chemistry. 🚪 The real reason Billy Sheehan decided to leave David Lee Roth's band. 🎸 Steve Vai's reaction to Sheehan's departure—and why he stayed. 📉 Why Roth's solo career never reached the same heights after those first two albums. 📰 Plus: David Lee Roth's recent tour cancellations and Sammy Hagar's response. Was Skyscraper the beginning of the end for David Lee Roth's legendary solo band? Join us live and share your thoughts in the chat! #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #BillySheehan #SteveVai

Join us on this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV as we're joined by Paco and Sergio from Top Jimmies, Puerto Rico's tribute to classic Van Halen! Top Jimmies bring the energy, the attitude, and the music that made Van Halen legendary—performing the classic songs that keep fans singing and dancing all night long. We talk about the band's history, their love for Eddie Van Halen and the music of Van Halen, what it's like performing these iconic songs live, and how they keep the spirit of classic Van Halen alive in Puerto Rico. You'll also hear from Sergio Blass, who first rose to fame as a member of the iconic Latin pop group Menudo, before becoming part of Top Jimmies. It's a fun conversation that connects two very different chapters of his musical career. Whether you're a fan of the David Lee Roth era, the Sammy Hagar era, Eddie Van Halen's incredible guitar playing, or simply love classic rock, there's something here for every Van Halen fan. 🎸 Follow Top Jimmies: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Topjimmies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/top_jimmies If you enjoy Van Halen interviews, rare stories, guitar talk, gear discussions, and conversations with musicians from around the world, be sure to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to Johnny Beane TV. Ring the notification bell so you never miss a new episode of Exclusively Van Halen! What is your favorite Van Halen song to hear performed live? Let us know in the comments below! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV #SergioBlass #TopJimmies

On Part 6, the thrilling finale of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, legendary guitar tech Zeke Clark wraps up this incredible series with an unforgettable collection of Prince memorabilia, rare rock collectibles, and amazing stories from his career working with some of music's biggest legends—all from his current Backstage Auctions event. The episode begins with more stories about the Dunlop Cry Baby Wah pedal that was personally gifted to Zeke by Eddie Van Halen, followed by 2012 Eddie Van Halen guitar picks, Taylor Swift Fearless-era guitar picks, Dunlop Taylor Swift picks, and Alex Lifeson's 2007 Rush Snakes & Arrows Tour guitar picks. The spotlight then turns to Zeke's years working with Prince, featuring an incredible collection of Love Symbol and Love God guitar picks, New Power Generation picks, rare backstage passes, VHS tapes, floppy disks, and personal items hand-stamped with Prince's famous Love Symbol stamp—something only Prince himself possessed. Zeke also shares the story behind creating the iconic silver foil Love Symbol guitar pick stickers, a detail Prince loved and personally approved. The Prince collection continues with New Power Generation European tour denim shorts, a matching denim jacket, and an extraordinary custom 1994 Monaco World Music Awards airbrushed jacket, featuring Prince's portrait and his famous microphone gun artwork—a true one-of-one piece of music history. The finale also explores an incredible variety of memorabilia from some of rock's biggest names, including Pearl Jam, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison, Black Sabbath, Metallica, James Brown, Guns N' Roses, KISS, Mr. Big, Vixen, Great White, White Zombie, Korn, Linkin Park, Alter Bridge, Eric Clapton, Alice in Chains, ZZ Top, Cheap Trick, Ted Nugent, Jack White, Glen Campbell, and many more. Also featured is a rare 1990s Aerosmith Rocket Cargo Crew Nike fleece jacket—one of only 20 ever made—along with additional Aerosmith memorabilia, country music collectibles signed by artists including Faith Hill, Clint Black, Brad Paisley, Trace Adkins, and Dwight Yoakam, plus a special Eddie Money autographed collection gifted to Zeke by Eddie Money's estate. From Van Halen and Prince to rock, metal, country, and beyond, this finale showcases an incredible lifetime of memories and one-of-a-kind collectibles. Every item has a story, and Zeke Clark was there to live it. Don't miss the conclusion of this remarkable series, and be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event to see these amazing pieces of music history. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #Prince #BackstageAuctions

On Part 5 of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, legendary guitar tech Zeke Clark continues exploring his extraordinary current Backstage Auctions collection, showcasing more rare Van Halen memorabilia and sharing the incredible stories behind each historic item. This episode features an outstanding collection of For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge and Right Here Right Now tour memorabilia, beginning with a 1991 Spectrum Philadelphia/Electric Factory concert shirt, embroidered For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge crew polo shirts worn by Zeke at special events like the NAMM Show alongside Eddie Van Halen, and a remarkable assortment of Edward Van Halen stage-used guitar picks from the 1991–1992 era. These rare tortoise, pink, and yellow picks feature Eddie's signature and the iconic Van Halen Rings logo, with many carrying humorous custom messages. Zeke also shares a rare 1991–1992 Total Access Mexico backstage pass issued exclusively to him, a collection of Michael Anthony guitar picks spanning 1991–1993, and three custom 1992 Cabo Wabo backstage passes. He even reveals authentic Van Halen bootleg concert T-shirts purchased outside venues during the band's Mexico tour—shirts that security tried to confiscate, but Zeke managed to save as unique souvenirs. The collection continues with a rare 1993 MCA Concerts Canada baseball jersey, Right Here Right Now VIP and Access All Areas laminates, additional European tour guitar picks, official crew shirts, and one of the rarest pieces in the entire collection—a crew-made "Just Spank It" T-shirt, inspired by Van Halen's Spanked. Featuring custom artwork of the band and the unforgettable "1-900-GET-SPANKED" design, this legendary shirt is an incredible piece of Van Halen tour history. Also featured are a luxurious 1993 Right Here Right Now UK/Europe crew bathrobe, a lightweight Van Halen crew gift briefcase, and a rare laminate from Van Halen's legendary 1993 Whisky a Go Go performance celebrating the band's 15th anniversary, where they filmed the live video for "Dreams." Rounding out the episode, Zeke showcases more Michael Anthony guitar picks from Van Halen III, Chickenfoot, Mad Anthony Express, and Sammy Hagar's Best of All Worlds era, along with an original Dunlop Cry Baby Wah pedal personally gifted to him by Eddie Van Halen. He also shares never-before-seen personal photographs from the 5150 Tour, giving fans another unforgettable behind-the-scenes look at life on the road with Van Halen. Every item has an incredible story, and Zeke was there to experience it all. If you're a Van Halen fan, collector, guitarist, or lover of rock history, this is another can't-miss episode packed with rare memorabilia, exclusive stories, and priceless memories. Be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event to explore these amazing pieces of rock history. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #ZekeClark #BackstageAuctions

On Part 4 of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, legendary guitar tech Zeke Clark continues exploring his remarkable current Backstage Auctions collection, sharing even more rare Van Halen memorabilia and the unforgettable stories behind each piece. The episode begins with an in-depth look at the Seymour Duncan humbucker pickup that was owned and used by Eddie Van Halen, followed by an incredible collection of stage-used EVH guitar picks from the OU812 era and beyond. Zeke also showcases rare 1988 Monsters of Rock memorabilia, including a Texas World Music Festival backstage T-shirt, beautifully embroidered Monsters of Rock Summer Tour crew shirts featuring Van Halen, Scorpions, Dokken, Metallica, and Kingdom Come, and several hard-to-find local crew shirts with the famous "OI812" print on the back. The stories continue with an OU812 Japan Access All Areas laminate, where Zeke shares an unforgettable behind-the-scenes story about the band's arrival in Japan. He also reveals the history behind the legendary "Hamsters of Rock" T-shirt—how it was created, why he got into trouble because of it, and how it later appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine with Guns N' Roses. Also featured are several custom Van Halen crew laminates, a Van Halen crew fleece jacket issued to Zeke, additional tour apparel, and an extremely rare set of custom 1988 Van Halen crew guitar picks, including one with the band's manager's last name accidentally misspelled. Zeke tells the hilarious story behind that unforgettable mistake. Rounding out the episode are For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge Tour message guitar picks, additional backstage laminates, and even more incredible artifacts from Zeke's years working alongside Eddie Van Halen. Every item has a story, and no one tells those stories better than Zeke Clark. If you're a Van Halen fan, collector, guitarist, or rock history enthusiast, this is another must-watch episode packed with rare memorabilia and firsthand memories. Be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event to see these amazing pieces of rock history. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #ZekeClark #BackstageAuctions

On Part 3 of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, legendary guitar tech Zeke Clark continues the tour through his incredible current Backstage Auctions event, sharing even more unforgettable stories behind some of the rarest Van Halen collectibles ever offered. This episode features an amazing collection of 1986 5150 Tour memorabilia, including an original 5150 concert shirt, an OU812 World Tour sweatshirt, and a wide variety of stage-used Edward Van Halen guitar picks from both the 5150 and OU812 tours. Zeke also reveals an incredibly rare 1986 misprint EVH guitar pick, along with white, black, and red stage-used picks that were actually played by Eddie on tour. Zeke shares the hilarious story behind his own custom "Goonga the Creator" guitar picks—a nickname given to him by Eddie Van Halen after the band watched an Eddie Murphy comedy special together at 5150 Studio. It's a fun behind-the-scenes story that only someone from Eddie's inner circle could tell. The collection also includes a prototype 1986 Texas Jam Van Halen T-shirt featuring the unforgettable slogan, "We have the peanut butter, Van Halen has the jam," along with a rare TAG Heuer watch personally owned and worn by Zeke, complete with a VH 5150 engraving inside the case. Also featured are Jam Productions local crew sweat shorts worn by Zeke during Van Halen tours from 1986–1991, displaying the iconic Van Halen Rings logo, plus a Seymour Duncan humbucker pickup that was owned and played by Eddie Van Halen during the 1987–1988 era. Every item has an incredible story, and Zeke was there for all of it. If you love Van Halen history, rare memorabilia, and behind-the-scenes stories from Eddie Van Halen's legendary career, you won't want to miss this episode. Be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event to see these amazing pieces of rock history. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #backstageauctions #ZekeClark

On Part 2 of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, legendary guitar tech Zeke Clark returns with another incredible collection of rare Van Halen and Prince memorabilia from his current Backstage Auctions event. Zeke shares the fascinating stories behind an autographed 5150 vinyl LP signed by Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, and 5150 Studio engineer Ken Deane. He also reveals an amazing collection of rare VHS tapes featuring Van Halen music videos, live performances, interviews, Cabo Wabo footage, Pittsburgh recordings, and other never-before-seen treasures whose contents are still waiting to be rediscovered. Having also worked closely with Prince, Zeke takes us inside another chapter of music history with a stage-used tambourine from Prince, 30 hand-stamped black Love Symbol white guitar picks personally stamped by Prince himself, and stories from his time helping develop the iconic Love Symbol era. The Van Halen history continues with Edward Van Halen's personal Fair Warning Access All Areas pass, one of Eddie's original 1978 first-issue signature guitar picks, Alex Van Halen's early Regal drumsticks, studio inspection vinyl LPs spanning 1978–1988, a Diver Down Access All Areas crew pass, 1984 stage-used guitar picks from both Eddie Van Halen and Michael Anthony, and never-before-seen personal photographs from the 5150 Tour. Zeke also shares the story behind a remarkable Farm Aid sweatshirt that Eddie Van Halen actually tried on before the band's historic first performance with Sammy Hagar in September 1985, along with rare late-'80s Van Halen pins and even more one-of-a-kind collectibles. Every item has a story, and Zeke was there to live it. If you're a Van Halen fan, collector, or rock history enthusiast, this is another episode you won't want to miss. Be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event to see these incredible pieces of rock history. #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #ZekeClark #BackstageAuctions

Part 1 - On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're joined by the legendary Zeke Clark, Eddie Van Halen's longtime guitar tech, for an incredible behind-the-scenes look at his current Backstage Auctions event. Zeke takes us through some of the rarest and most historic pieces from his personal collection, sharing the unforgettable stories behind each item. Highlights include Edward Van Halen-owned and used Marshall amplifiers, the Silvertone amplifier heard on "Finish What You Started," Marshall cabinets that Zeke personally wired with speakers, and the fascinating history behind them. He also showcases two Kramer guitars he built while auditioning to become Eddie's guitar tech—one with a maple neck and one with a rosewood neck—which later served as studio backup guitars for Eddie Van Halen. The stories continue with an Eddie Van Halen-gifted Rolex Submariner, an ultra-rare Van Halen logo ring presented to Zeke by Eddie (with pyro legend John Watkins being the only other known recipient), and the EVH Dunlop Signature Phase 90 and EVH Signature Flanger pedals that Eddie personally gifted Zeke years after they worked together. If you're a Van Halen fan or collector, this is a once-in-a-lifetime look at rock history told by someone who lived it. Don't miss Zeke's incredible memories, the stories behind these legendary artifacts, and be sure to check out the current Backstage Auctions event! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #ZekeClark #BackstageAuctions

Today was the filming of the highly anticipated TEDxFargo CHARGE conversation featuring Alex Van Halen, David Lee Roth, and renowned artist Robert Vargas. This is a behind-the-scenes look at a historic moment as these legendary figures come together for a conversation that Van Halen fans—and music fans everywhere—won't want to miss. The complete TEDxFargo talk will premiere on the official TEDxFargo YouTube platforms in just a few weeks, where it will be available for everyone to watch. What are your expectations for this conversation? Let us know in the comments below! Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications for more Van Halen news, updates, interviews, and exclusive content right here on Johnny Beane TV. #AlexVanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #TEDxFargo #VanHalen #RobertVargas

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we discuss the surprising news that David Lee Roth has been added to Alex Van Halen's TEDxFargo appearance this Thursday! David Lee Roth will join Alex Van Halen and acclaimed artist Robert Vargas on stage at TEDxFargo on Thursday, July 30, in Fargo, North Dakota. Roth's involvement wasn't revealed until today through social media posts from Robert Vargas and TEDxFargo, making this a major surprise for Van Halen fans around the world. While this won't be a concert or musical performance, the three are expected to take part in a live conversation as part of this year's TEDxFargo theme, "CHARGE." Alex has kept a low public profile in recent years following the release of his memoir Brothers, making this appearance even more significant. Robert Vargas, the Los Angeles artist behind the famous Eddie Van Halen mural at Guitar Center Hollywood and his striking Alex Van Halen portrait, has become a close friend of Alex and will also be part of the discussion. Robert Vargas, the Los Angeles-based contemporary artist joining Alex and Roth on stage, is internationally recognized for his massive freehand murals and striking mixed-media portraits. Raised in Boyle Heights, California, Vargas studied at the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts before continuing his education at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. His artwork can be found on prominent buildings throughout downtown Los Angeles as well as in cities across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Among Van Halen fans, he's best known for creating the iconic Eddie Van Halen mural at Guitar Center Hollywood and his impressive portrait of Alex Van Halen. Perhaps the biggest story is that this marks the first public event featuring David Lee Roth and Alex Van Halen together on the same stage since Van Halen's final performance at the Hollywood Bowl in October 2015. What stories, memories, and surprises might they share? We'll break down everything we know, what fans can expect, and why this could be one of the most talked-about Van Halen events of the year. #RobertVargas #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #AlexVanHalen #TEDxFargo

Fender Japan has done it again! The brand's new Limited Active Modern Series introduces some impressive innovations that many players have been asking for—and it raises one big question: Why aren't these features available on more U.S.-made Fenders? The new lineup includes two Stratocasters (SSS and HSS), a Telecaster, and a Modern Jazz Bass, all loaded with modern upgrades while staying true to classic Fender DNA. One of the biggest additions is the new Turbo Tone Boost. Activated with a push/push volume knob, it simulates the sound of a hotter single-coil pickup by electronically increasing the perceived winding effect—giving players a thicker, more powerful tone without changing pickups. Fender Japan also introduces a redesigned five-bolt neck heel, providing easier access to the upper frets while improving stability. The Stratocasters and Telecasters feature elegant body binding, a rare sight on production Fender Strats that gives these guitars a premium custom-shop vibe. Another standout feature is the new SILENCOIL system. Designed to eliminate hum while preserving the authentic tone and attack of traditional single-coils, it works independently from the pickups themselves—meaning players can swap pickups later and still keep the noiseless technology. Built with alder bodies, maple necks, premium fingerboards, and high-quality Japanese craftsmanship, the Active Modern Series blends vintage tone with modern performance. The guitars are available in finishes including Two-Color Sunburst, Feather Gray, Black, Sapphire Blue Transparent, and Vintage Natural. Unfortunately, there's one catch: the entire Active Modern Series is exclusive to Japan. Could these innovations eventually make their way to Fender's U.S. lineup? Many players are hoping so. What do you think? Would you buy one of these Fender Japan Active Modern guitars if they were available in the United States? #FenderJapan #FenderStratocaster #FenderTelecaster #ElectricGuitar

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, David Lee Roth has just shared three brand-new video clips promoting his upcoming appearance at Sturgis—but there's something unusual about them. One video is in English, while the other two appear to be in Spanish and Portuguese (possibly Brazilian Portuguese). The non-English versions sound remarkably like Dave, but are they actually his voice? The pitch seems noticeably higher than in the English clip, leading many to wonder if AI voice technology was used. There's also what appears to be a green screen visible behind him, adding even more intrigue. Are these authentic multilingual messages from Diamond Dave—or AI-enhanced versions created for international audiences? Let's watch the videos together, break them down, and discuss what might really be going on. #DavidLeeRoth #VanHalen #Sturgis #johnnybeaneTV

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're joined by the legendary Zeke Clark—Eddie Van Halen's longtime guitar tech—for an exclusive look inside his incredible collection, now being offered through Backstage Auctions. Hear the stories behind some of the most amazing pieces of Van Halen history ever to reach the public, including hand-built Kramer guitars originally intended as studio backup guitars for Eddie Van Halen, Marshall amplifiers and cabinets from Eddie's rig, rare Van Halen guitar picks, backstage passes, laminates, crew shirts, and an incredible collection of one-of-a-kind memorabilia collected during Zeke's years with the band. We'll also dive into Zeke's time working with Prince, showcasing an incredible selection of authentic Prince memorabilia straight from the source, complete with the stories behind these historic pieces. If you're a fan of Van Halen, Prince, rock history, or music collectibles, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Be sure to drop your questions in the comments, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support Johnny Beane TV! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #Prince #zekeclark

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're breaking down the surprising news that David Lee Roth's 2026 tour appears to have been canceled. Then, in an unexpected twist, Sammy Hagar publicly responded, wishing Dave nothing but the best and even extending an invitation for him to join the band in Las Vegas! What does this mean for Van Halen fans? Could this lead to something bigger, or is it simply a show of respect between two rock legends? Let's dive into the latest news, reactions, and what it could mean moving forward. Join the conversation LIVE on Johnny Beane TV! #DavidLeeRoth #SammyHagar #VanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen, we're joined by Jacques from Backstage Auctions for an exclusive look at the incredible Zeke Clark Collection—one of the most exciting collections of Van Halen memorabilia ever to hit the auction block. Zeke Clark, Eddie Van Halen's longtime guitar tech, assembled an amazing collection over the years, including Marshall amplifiers owned and used by Eddie Van Halen, two Kramer guitars built by Zeke while auditioning for the role of Eddie's guitar tech, Eddie's Rolex watch, a one-of-a-kind solid gold Van Halen crew ring, rare guitar picks from Eddie Van Halen, Michael Anthony, and Sammy Hagar, plus an incredible assortment of backstage passes, laminates, crew shirts, and other one-of-a-kind Van Halen collectibles. And that's not all—Zeke also worked for Prince, so we'll be checking out some truly rare Prince memorabilia as well. If you're a fan of Van Halen, rock history, or legendary music collectibles, you won't want to miss this conversation. Have questions? Drop them in the comments below, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to help support Johnny Beane TV! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #EVH #RockMemorabilia

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're joined by Ben Perea for an incredible conversation about his journey behind the lens—and to showcase never-before-seen Van Halen photographs that fans won't want to miss! Ben shares how hearing Led Zeppelin's "Ramble On" at just 10 years old sparked a lifelong passion for rock music. From attending legendary concerts in the 1970s to photographing Van Halen, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Heart, Boston, and many more, Ben's story is as fascinating as the images he's captured. At just 17 years old, Ben borrowed a Pentax camera and photographed Van Halen in 1980. Two years later, he camped out five days for AC/DC's For Those About to Rock tour in Denver, earning local media attention before documenting another unforgettable show. As a self-taught photographer, Ben mastered the challenge of photographing fast-moving performers and, unlike official press photographers who were limited to only a few songs, he was able to capture entire performances from the audience. The highlight of this episode is Ben's incredible collection of rare, never-before-seen Van Halen photos, offering fans a fresh look at the band during one of the most exciting eras in rock history. These stunning images have remained unseen by the public for decades, making this a must-watch for every Van Halen fan. Using his trusted Nikon FM2 and Nikkor lenses, Ben preserved priceless moments in rock history that deserve to be shared and celebrated. 🎸 If you're a Van Halen fan, you do not want to miss this episode! Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and RING THE BELL so you never miss an episode of Johnny Beane TV! #VanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV #RockPhotography #EddieVanHalen

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, I'm recapping an incredible night with Fan Halen—one of the absolute best Van Halen tribute bands on the scene today! If you're a fan of the classic David Lee Roth-era Van Halen sound and energy, these guys absolutely deliver. From the musicianship to the stage presence, they capture the spirit of the early Van Halen years and put on a fantastic show. A huge thank you to Derek for the invitation! I had an amazing time, and I highly recommend catching Fan Halen whenever they're playing in a city near you. If you love classic Van Halen, this is a show you won't want to miss! Be sure to like, subscribe, and let me know in the comments if you've ever seen Fan Halen live—or which Van Halen tribute band is your favorite! #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #EddieVanHalen #FanHalen

Today we're paying tribute to one of the most influential figures in electric guitar history. Wayne Charvel, the legendary luthier, innovator, and founder of the Charvel guitar brand, has passed away at the age of 85. His impact on modern guitar design, custom builds, and rock music is impossible to overstate. From helping Eddie Van Halen create the iconic Frankenstein guitar to pioneering what would become known as the Superstrat, Wayne Charvel forever changed the way guitarists looked at performance instruments. In this episode we'll discuss: 🎸 Wayne Charvel's incredible life and legacy. 🎸 How Charvel's Guitar Repair in Azusa, California became ground zero for the custom guitar revolution. 🎸 His relationship with Eddie Van Halen and the famous story behind the original Frankenstein guitar. 🎸 The original Bumblebee guitar Wayne built at Eddie's request. 🎸 How Charvel helped inspire the birth of the Superstrat. 🎸 Why Charvel guitars became the instrument of choice for the biggest shred guitarists of the 1980s. 🎸 The sale of Charvel to Grover Jackson and how the brand continued to grow. 🎸 Fender's acquisition of Charvel and the brand's modern resurgence. 🎸 Wayne Charvel's lasting influence on today's guitar builders and players. Wayne Charvel opened Charvel's Guitar Repair in 1974, offering custom modifications and replacement parts at a time when major manufacturers like Fender and Gibson didn't provide custom shop services. His shop quickly became a destination for professional musicians looking to hot-rod their instruments. One of those musicians was Eddie Van Halen. Wayne famously recalled Eddie stopping by the shop looking for an extra body and neck. Charvel supplied him with spare parts, which Eddie transformed into what would become one of the most recognizable guitars in rock history—the legendary Frankenstein. Wayne also built the original Bumblebee guitar at Eddie's request. His craftsmanship also attracted guitar legends including: Steve Vai Jake E. Lee Warren DeMartini George Lynch Jeff Beck Allan Holdsworth Even after selling the company to Grover Jackson in 1978, Wayne's philosophy of building fast, reliable, player-focused instruments continued to define the Charvel brand and helped launch the Superstrat movement that shaped an entire generation of guitarists. In 2002, Charvel became part of the Fender family, introducing a new generation of players to the legendary name while honoring the innovations Wayne started decades earlier. Wayne Charvel leaves behind not only a legendary guitar brand, but an enduring legacy that continues to inspire builders, musicians, collectors, and fans around the world. Join us live as we celebrate the life, career, and lasting impact of a true guitar pioneer whose influence will be felt for generations to come. Rest in peace, Wayne Charvel. #WayneCharvel #EddieVanHalen #Charvel #TalkingGuitars

🤘 Van Halen Conquers The Texxas Jam 1986! | 72,000 Fans, 5150 Era & Sammy Hagar’s Triumph On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we go back 40 years ago today to one of the most legendary performances of the Sammy Hagar era of Van Halen — the 1986 Texxas Jam at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas! 🤘 On July 19, 1986, Van Halen headlined the 9th annual Texxas Jam in front of a massive crowd of approximately 72,000 rock fans. The lineup featured an incredible collection of hard rock legends including Dio, Loverboy, Krokus, Keel, and Bachman-Turner Overdrive. This show came during Van Halen’s groundbreaking 5150 Tour, their first major tour with new frontman Sammy Hagar after the departure of David Lee Roth. The band was riding high on the success of the 5150 album, which became their first #1 album on the Billboard 200. The Texxas Jam performance became an important moment in Van Halen history — proving that the band’s new lineup with Eddie Van Halen, Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, and Alex Van Halen had the power, chemistry, and energy to dominate the biggest stages in rock. We also talk about a great story from VHND contributing writer Kevin Dodds, who was actually there for this historic concert. His article shares his memories of being a young Van Halen fan experiencing the excitement, chaos, and unforgettable atmosphere of the 1986 Texxas Jam. The band’s set included classics like “Panama,” “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love,” “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” “Best Of Both Worlds,” “5150,” and more as Van Halen delivered a powerhouse performance for one of the biggest crowds of their career. 🔥 A legendary day in Van Halen history! What do you remember about the 1986 Texxas Jam? Were you there? Let us know in the comments! #VanHalen #SammyHagar #EddieVanHalen #5150Tour

Is Alex Van Halen About to Release the Ultimate Unheard Eddie Van Halen Album? by Johnny Beane

A brand-new Alex Van Halen Art Edition has just been announced—and it may be the ultimate Van Halen collector's item ever released! We'll take a closer look at this incredibly rare release and break down everything included in this limited-edition package. 🔥 Here's what we'll cover: 🎸 Only 35 copies worldwide of the exclusive Art Edition. ✍️ Hand-signed by Alex Van Halen, with each set individually numbered in Roman numerals (I–XXXV). 📖 A specially bound Artist Proof "Collector" edition of VAN HALEN, featuring Alex's personal story of the band's rise from Pasadena to the legendary 1984 world tour. 🥁 A framed Remo Emperor X snare drumhead, featuring the classic Van Halen logo and individually signed by Alex Van Halen. 🎁 Exclusive collector extras, including: 1979 Van Halen Productions keychain Three replica Eddie Van Halen guitar picks Six collectible art postcards An exclusive 7-inch vinyl record 📦 Premium presentation featuring: Quarter-bound black vegan leather book Silver page edges Silver-debossed 1978 Van Halen World Tour logo Custom black clamshell display case with exclusive artwork 🏆 A look back at Alex Van Halen's incredible legacy as one of rock's greatest drummers and the driving force behind one of the biggest bands in rock history. We'll also discuss whether this stunning collector's edition is the holy grail for Van Halen fans and if it's worth the premium price. Join us live and let us know... Would you add this incredible Art Edition to your Van Halen collection if money were no object? #VanHalen #AlexVanHalen #EddieVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we're diving into the latest twist in Fender's ongoing legal battle over the iconic Stratocaster body shape—and this time, one of the biggest names in the industry is involved. Yamaha has confirmed it received a cease-and-desist letter from Fender, making it one of the latest companies drawn into the controversy surrounding Strat-style guitars. Could this change the future of guitar design? 🎸 In this episode, we'll discuss: Fender's expanding legal campaign to protect the Stratocaster body shape. Yamaha confirming it received a cease-and-desist letter in May. How the legendary Yamaha Pacifica could now be at the center of the dispute. Why the Pacifica has been one of the world's most popular beginner and intermediate guitars since 1991. What this means for other manufacturers, builders, and the future of S-style guitars. Fender CEO Bud Cole's response and the company's stated goal of finding "practical paths forward." The growing backlash from guitar players, YouTubers, and the guitar community. With Fender taking on the world's largest musical instrument manufacturer, the stakes have never been higher. Is this about protecting an iconic design, or could it reshape the future of the guitar industry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Should classic guitar shapes remain open for manufacturers to reinterpret, or should companies have stronger legal protections for their iconic designs? 👍 Don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more guitar news, gear talk, reviews, and live discussions right here on Johnny Beane TV! #Fender #Yamaha #Stratocaster #GuitarNews

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into Alex Van Halen's latest comments about why David Lee Roth was the secret ingredient that made classic Van Halen unforgettable. Alex shares why he believes the original lineup had a chemistry that could never be duplicated, describing Roth as a "poet" whose larger-than-life personality helped create the band's legendary sound and connection with fans. In this episode: 🎸 Alex Van Halen explains why he believes Van Halen's best work was with David Lee Roth. 🔥 Why Alex calls the original lineup's chemistry "brilliant soup." ⚡ The creative friction that fueled Van Halen's biggest moments. 🎤 How Roth's ability to connect with audiences helped make Van Halen one of the greatest live bands ever. 🤝 Alex reflects on his lifelong bond with David Lee Roth. 🎶 We also discuss Desmond Child's memories of writing with Van Halen and Joe Satriani's surprising story about David Lee Roth's proposed Van Halen tribute tour in the 1990s. Do you agree with Alex Van Halen? Was the original Van Halen lineup truly the band's greatest era, or do you have a different favorite? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 👍 Don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and hit the Bell so you never miss the latest Van Halen news, discussions, gear, and history on Johnny Beane TV! #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #AlexVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

KISS is celebrating the incredible legacy of Ace Frehley with a special all-star tribute, and we're breaking down all the details on this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV! The legendary original KISS guitarist, known around the world as "The Spaceman," made a lasting impact on rock music with his unmistakable tone, creative solos, and guitar style that inspired generations of players. Now, KISS is honoring Ace's legacy with the Ace Frehley All-Star Tribute, taking place during KISS Kruise: Land-Locked in Vegas, happening November 13–15, 2026 at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The one-night-only tribute will feature Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer coming together with special guest musicians to celebrate Ace's incredible contributions to KISS history. The special guests have yet to be announced, adding even more excitement and speculation for fans. The Ace Frehley Band will serve as the backing band for the tribute, and each current member of KISS has personally selected an Ace Frehley song to perform as part of the celebration. What Ace Frehley song would YOU want to hear performed during this tribute? Let us know in the comments! Subscribe to Johnny Beane TV for more guitar news, gear, interviews, and rock history. #KISS #AceFrehley #TalkingGuitars #JohnnyBeaneTV

n this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're diving into an awesome new interview with Sean McNabb, bassist for David Lee Roth's 2026 solo band. Sean shares what it's like performing Van Halen classics night after night with one of rock's greatest frontmen—and why he's still getting goosebumps every show. 🔥 Episode Highlights 🎤 Playing with David Lee Roth: Sean says it's "incredible" to share the stage with the legendary frontman he grew up idolizing. 🎸 A lifelong Van Halen fan: He says hearing Van Halen in 1978 completely changed his life. 🤘 Favorite songs to perform: "I'm the One" "Beautiful Girls" 🎵 25-song setlist: Roth's band rotates through roughly 24–25 songs, keeping every show fresh. 🎸 Honoring Michael Anthony: Sean praises Michael Anthony as an amazing bassist and one of the coolest people in rock. 📺 Always learning: Sean studies classic Van Halen live performances from the '80s to capture every nuance of the music. 🎼 Brown M&Ms experience: Having previously played Van Halen music in the tribute band Brown M&Ms, Sean was well prepared for the gig—but says he's still learning every night. 🎤 Current David Lee Roth Band: David Lee Roth – Vocals Al Estrada – Guitar Sean McNabb – Bass Francis Valentino – Drums Danny Wagner – Keyboards Plus backing vocalists 🚐 2026 Tour: Roth's "Don't Love Me, Rent Me" tour continues through early September, featuring solo favorites along with a heavy dose of classic Van Halen. 🔥 Van Halen legacy: Sean says performing these legendary songs with David himself is something he'll never take for granted. Join us as we break down Sean McNabb's comments, discuss David Lee Roth's current tour, celebrate Michael Anthony's iconic bass playing, and talk all things classic Van Halen! What do you think? Which Van Halen song would YOU most want to play with David Lee Roth? Let us know in the live chat and comments! #DavidLeeRoth #VanHalen #seanmcnabb #JohnnyBeaneTV

🎸 On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're diving into an incredible story from Sammy Hagar that could have changed Van Halen history! Sammy Hagar has revealed that one of his most beloved solo songs, "Eagles Fly," was nearly a Van Halen song—but it was passed over... at first. Here's what we'll cover: 🔥 Sammy explains why "Eagles Fly" is one of the most meaningful songs he's ever written. 🎸 Eddie Van Halen immediately loved the song when Sammy first played it. 🥁 Alex Van Halen wasn't convinced, reportedly saying it sounded like "John Denver" because Sammy was playing it on acoustic guitar. 💿 Sammy recorded the song for his 1987 solo album I Never Said Goodbye, with Eddie Van Halen co-producing the album, playing bass, and delivering an unforgettable guitar solo. 🤯 After hearing the finished recording, Alex reportedly admitted: "Why didn't we put that on a Van Halen record?!" 😂 Sammy reminded Alex that he had originally dismissed the song as sounding like John Denver. 🎶 We'll discuss how Sammy's songwriting helped shape the Van Halen era and why "Eagles Fly" remains one of the biggest "what if?" moments in the band's history. 🎸 Plus, we'll also touch on Joe Satriani's recent revelation that David Lee Roth once approached him about forming a Van Halen cover band while Eddie Van Halen was still alive. What do YOU think? 🤘 Should "Eagles Fly" have been recorded as a Van Halen song? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! #ExclusivelyVanHalen #SammyHagar #EddieVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

🎉 LIVE: Celebrating 40 Years of David Lee Roth's *Eat 'Em and Smile*! 🤘🎸 | Exclusively Van Halen It's been **40 years** since **David Lee Roth** unleashed **Eat 'Em and Smile**, one of the greatest hard rock albums of the 1980s—and we're celebrating the anniversary LIVE! On this episode of **Exclusively Van Halen**, we take a deep dive into Diamond Dave's legendary 1986 solo debut, featuring the incredible lineup of **Steve Vai**, **Billy Sheehan**, and **Gregg Bissonette**. 🔥 In this episode: * 🎸 Celebrating the 40th anniversary of *Eat 'Em and Smile* * 🎶 Track-by-track look at every song—including the rare Spanish version, **Sonrisa Salvaje** * 🤘 Live Van Halen discussion with fans from around the world! Released on **July 7, 1986**, *Eat 'Em and Smile* became David Lee Roth's first full-length solo album after leaving Van Halen. Produced by legendary producer **Ted Templeman**, the album rocketed to **#4 on the Billboard 200** and earned Platinum status in the U.S. Featuring unforgettable songs like: 🎵 Yankee Rose 🎵 Shyboy 🎵 Goin' Crazy! 🎵 Tobacco Road 🎵 Elephant Gun 🎵 Big Trouble 🎵 Bump and Grind 🎵 That's Life We'll also talk about: 🎸 Steve Vai's incredible guitar work 🎸 Billy Sheehan's jaw-dropping bass playing 🥁 Gregg Bissonette's powerhouse drumming 🎤 Why *Eat 'Em and Smile* is still considered one of the greatest post-Van Halen albums ever made. ## 🎸 Welcome to Exclusively Van Halen If you love **Van Halen**, **David Lee Roth**, **Eddie Van Halen**, rare guitars, rock history, gear talk, live discussions, and exclusive stories, you've found your home! Johnny Beane TV brings you: ✅ Van Halen news ✅ Guitar gear & demos ✅ Album anniversaries ✅ Rare collectibles ✅ Interviews & live discussions ✅ Giveaways and much more! 👍 Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and join the conversation in the live chat! 📲 Follow Johnny Beane: 🌐 Website: www.johnnybeane.com 📘 Facebook: http://facebook.com/johnnybeane 📸 Instagram: @johnnybeane 🐦 X: @johnnybeane 🎵 TikTok: @johnnybeanetv 🎸 Join the biggest Van Halen Facebook community: http://facebook.com/groups/EVHFANPAGE 📬 Fan Mail / Product Reviews: Johnny Beane 4768 Soquel Dr Box 232 Soquel, CA 95073 USA Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4906555367489536 #ExclusivelyVanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #EatEmAndSmile #VanHalen #SteveVai #BillySheehan #GreggBissonette #EddieVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV #HardRock #Guitar #RockMusic #1980sRock #ClassicRock #YankeeRose

🎸 On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV... "Who's gonna know if I play on this kid's record?" Eddie Van Halen tells the incredible story of how he broke one of Van Halen's biggest band rules to record the legendary guitar solo on Michael Jackson's "Beat It"—and why he never accepted a dime for it. We'll talk about: 🎸 Why Van Halen had a strict "no outside sessions" policy. 🤫 How Eddie secretly agreed to record on Beat It while the rest of the band was out of town. 💰 Why Eddie never asked for — or received — any payment for one of the most iconic guitar solos ever recorded. 🎶 How Eddie completely rearranged part of the song before laying down his solo. 😲 Michael Jackson's reaction when Eddie admitted he had changed the song. 🎛️ Steve Lukather's behind-the-scenes story about the tape edits that caused major technical headaches during the Thriller sessions. 📀 How Beat It became one of the biggest hits of the 1980s and helped make Thriller the best-selling album of all time. 🥁 Alex Van Halen's belief that Eddie's guest appearance added to growing tensions within Van Halen. 🎤 Eddie's heartfelt memories of Michael Jackson years later. 🔥 The latest on Alex Van Halen's long-rumored project featuring Eddie's unreleased recordings—and what Steve Lukather and Steve Vai have said about it. Don't miss this fascinating look at one of the most legendary collaborations in rock history! #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #MichaelJackson #BeatIt

From backyard parties to rock superstardom! 🤘 Michael Anthony shares the incredible story of how he went from playing local Southern California gigs to becoming the legendary bassist for Van Halen. Hear the unforgettable first impressions, behind-the-scenes stories, and the moments that changed rock history forever. We'll cover: 🎸 Michael Anthony's first time seeing Mammoth before they became Van Halen. 🎤 The hilarious first meeting with David Lee Roth: "Roth came over to me wearing this little vest, carrying a cane, and his hair was dyed like a skunk. He said, 'How do you like my boys?'" 🔥 How Eddie and Alex Van Halen auditioned Michael—and why he said "I'm in!" without hesitation. 🎵 Learning five songs a day while playing backyard parties, weddings, and club gigs. ⚡ The gear race between Michael's bass rig and Eddie's growing guitar arsenal. 💥 Gene Simmons producing Van Halen's early demo. 📀 The Starwood Club performance that earned the band its Warner Bros. record deal. 🎹 The growing tensions during the 1984 era and David Lee Roth's departure. 🚗 The unbelievable story of how Sammy Hagar joined Van Halen through Eddie's mechanic. 🏆 How 5150 became Van Halen's first #1 album and launched a brand-new era for the band. Whether you're a lifelong Van Halen fan or discovering these stories for the first time, you won't want to miss this deep dive into one of rock's greatest journeys. #VanHalen #MichaelAnthony #DavidLeeRoth #JohnnyBeaneTV

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV... 🎸 Joe Satriani reveals the one thing Sammy Hagar does better than he can on guitar. As the Best of All Worlds Band heads to Europe for its July tour dates, Joe Satriani is praising Sammy Hagar for a guitar-playing skill that has nothing to do with speed. Highlights: 🎤 Satriani says Hagar always seems to know exactly when not to play. 🎸 While Satriani admits he'll often play "too many notes," Hagar naturally chooses the right notes with the right feel and vibrato. 🤘 After years together in Chickenfoot and now the Best of All Worlds Band, Satriani has gained a deeper appreciation for Hagar's understated guitar style. 🎵 Satriani believes Hagar approaches guitar like a great lead singer, focusing on melody, phrasing, and emotion rather than constant shredding. 🇬🇧 He compares Hagar's restraint to legendary British players like Eric Clapton and Brian May, saying they always seem to play the perfect notes. 🎸 Hagar has said his earliest guitar influences were Eric Clapton and Peter Green, preferring their melodic style over Jimi Hendrix. 🌍 The Best of All Worlds Tour has wrapped its June U.S. dates, heads to Europe in July, and returns to the U.S. in August. Do you agree with Joe Satriani? Is Sammy Hagar one of rock's most underrated guitar players? Let us know in the comments! #VanHalen #SammyHagar #JoeSatriani #GuitarNews

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV... On this day in 1996, Van Halen officially announced they were parting ways with Sammy Hagar, ending one of the most successful eras in the band's history. We'll break down: 🎸 Why tensions between Eddie Van Halen and Sammy Hagar reached a breaking point. 💿 How the Balance album and tour exposed growing cracks within the band. 👔 The impact of longtime manager Ed Leffler's passing and the arrival of Ray Daniels. 📀 Why a proposed Van Halen greatest hits album became a major source of conflict. ☎️ The famous Father's Day phone call that ended "Van Hagar"—did Sammy quit, or was he fired? 🎤 The different versions of the story from Eddie Van Halen and Sammy Hagar. 🔥 How June 26, 1996 marked the end of an era that produced four consecutive No. 1 albums, massive world tours, and countless rock classics. What do YOU think really happened? Did Sammy Hagar quit... or was he fired? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! #VanHalen #SammyHagar #EddieVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV

On This Episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV... 🔥 "But Dave... Ed's Still Alive!" 🔥 What if David Lee Roth had launched a Van Halen tribute band... while Eddie Van Halen was still in Van Halen? Joe Satriani has revealed an unbelievable story from the mid-'90s: Roth personally called him with a wild idea—to form a band dedicated to playing Van Halen music while Eddie was still recording albums and touring with the real band! ⚡ In this episode: • Joe Satriani reveals David Lee Roth's surprising proposal from the '90s • Why Satriani immediately rejected the idea with one unforgettable response • The connection between this proposal and the post-Eddie Van Halen tribute project • Why Satriani recommended Steve Vai and Nuno Bettencourt instead of himself • The truth about the tribute tour that never happened • How Satriani ultimately became part of Van Halen's legacy through Sammy Hagar's Best of All Worlds Tour Was David Lee Roth ahead of his time—or was this one of the strangest Van Halen ideas ever? Join us as we break down this fascinating chapter of Van Halen history and discuss what might have been! 🎸 Subscribe, Like, and Join the Live Chat! #VanHalen #DavidLeeRoth #JoeSatriani #EddieVanHalen

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV... The guitar world just got a whole lot more interesting. In a shocking escalation of Fender's ongoing Stratocaster body-shape controversy, Thomann—the world's largest music retailer and home of Harley Benton guitars—has officially filed legal action against Fender. Why? Thomann says Fender's recent cease-and-desist campaign isn't just affecting one company—it's threatening the future of innovation, competition, and diversity across the entire guitar industry. Thomann CEO Hans Thomann says the company is taking a stand not only for itself, but for smaller builders and manufacturers who may not have the resources to fight back. The retailer specifically mentions respected brands such as Suhr, Tom Anderson, Tyler, PRS, LsL, Maybach, Pensa, and FGN as companies that could be impacted by Fender's legal actions. At the heart of the dispute is a major question: Can the Stratocaster body shape really be protected as a work of art, or is its iconic design simply the result of practical ergonomics that have inspired generations of guitar builders? Thomann believes this fight is bigger than one company, one guitar, or even one lawsuit. They argue that the Stratocaster's legacy was built by musicians, luthiers, and innovators worldwide—and that the freedom to build upon classic designs is essential to the future of the guitar industry. Meanwhile, Fender maintains that it is working directly with companies to find solutions, but the backlash continues to grow. Several prominent guitar YouTubers have criticized the move, and some have even cut ties with the company altogether. So what do YOU think? Is Fender protecting its intellectual property—or trying to control a guitar shape that has become part of music history? Let us know in the comments! #Fender #Stratocaster #GuitarNews

🎉🎸 Happy Birthday, Michael Anthony! The Heartbeat of Van Halen! 🎸🎉 Tonight on Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're celebrating the birthday of one of rock's most beloved bass players, Michael Anthony! For decades, Michael Anthony provided the rock-solid foundation that helped make Van Halen one of the biggest bands in the world. From the groundbreaking debut album in 1978 through the band's legendary arena-rock years, his powerful bass playing, unmistakable backing vocals, and larger-than-life stage presence became essential ingredients in the Van Halen sound. While many fans focus on the guitar wizardry of Eddie Van Halen and the thunderous drumming of Alex Van Halen, Michael's soaring harmonies helped define classics like "Runnin' with the Devil," "Panama," "Dreams," and countless others. His voice was a crucial part of the band's signature sound. Known for his iconic Jack Daniel's bass, infectious smile, and undeniable groove, Michael became a fan favorite by bringing energy, positivity, and professionalism to every performance. His contributions continue to be celebrated by generations of Van Halen fans around the world. Beyond Van Halen, Michael has continued rocking with Chickenfoot alongside Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, and Chad Smith, as well as with Sammy Hagar & The Circle, proving that great musicianship never goes out of style. 🎂 Join us as we celebrate Michael Anthony's incredible legacy, share favorite memories, performances, songs, and moments from his amazing career with Van Halen and beyond! 🤘 Happy Birthday, Michael Anthony! Thank you for the groove, the harmonies, and the soundtrack to our lives. #MichaelAnthony #HappyBirthdayMichaelAnthony #VanHalen #VanHalenForever #ExclusivelyVanHalen #JohnnyBeaneTV #BassLegend #ClassicRock #RockAndRoll #Chickenfoot #SammyHagar #EddieVanHalen #AlexVanHalen #BassPlayer #VanHalenNation #RockHistory #MusicLegend #BirthdayTribute #VHFans #MichaelAnthonyBass

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into the fascinating story behind one of the most unusual tracks on Van Halen's 1981 album Fair Warning — "Push Comes to Shove." While Fair Warning is often celebrated as Eddie Van Halen's darkest, heaviest, and most adventurous guitar album, one song stands out from the rest. With its reggae-inspired groove and bluesy feel, "Push Comes to Shove" pushed the band into unfamiliar territory. But what really makes the track memorable is the story behind Eddie's guitar solo. According to Eddie, producer Ted Templeman rejected his solo take over and over again during the recording sessions. Frustrated after playing the same solo more than 20 times, Eddie walked away from the session. Later that night, he returned to the studio, played essentially the same solo again, and left. The next day, Templeman heard it and declared, "That's great!" We'll discuss Eddie's unforgettable recollection of the session, the making of Fair Warning, the band's creative tensions, and why this deep cut remains one of the most interesting songs in the Van Halen catalog. Was "Push Comes to Shove" an underrated gem, or does it rank among the lesser-known experiments from Van Halen's classic era? Join the conversation live and let us know what you think! Connect with Johnny Beane: https://www.instagram.com/johnnybeane https://www.tiktok.com/@johnnybeanetv https://x.com/johnnybeane https://www.facebook.com/johnnybeane/ https://soundcloud.com/johnnybeane #VanHalen #EddieVanHalen #FairWarning

On this episode of Talking Guitars on Johnny Beane TV, we dive into the incredible story behind Lenny Kravitz's most important guitar. Facing jail time and desperate for cash, a man pulled into a parking lot with a car full of vintage guitars. What happened next changed Kravitz's collection forever. Among the instruments was a legendary 1953 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop conversion that became his number-one studio guitar and has appeared on every album since Are You Gonna Go My Way. Lenny also reveals how Tom Petty and Mike Campbell taught him the art of vintage guitar hunting during his early touring days, helping shape his passion for classic instruments. From rare Fender Telecasters and Stratocasters to one of the most iconic Les Pauls in modern rock, this is a fascinating story every guitar player and rock fan needs to hear. What would YOU have bought from that car full of vintage guitars? #LennyKravitz #LesPaul #VintageGuitars #TalkingGuitars

On this episode of Johnny Beane TV, we're celebrating the anniversary of one of the most iconic albums of the 1980s—The Police's legendary final studio release, Synchronicity! Released on June 17, 1983, Synchronicity became the band's biggest-selling album and a defining moment in rock history. Featuring massive hits like "Every Breath You Take," "King of Pain," "Wrapped Around Your Finger," and "Synchronicity II," the album showcased the creative peak of Sting, Andy Summers, and Stewart Copeland. More than four decades later, Synchronicity continues to captivate fans with its blend of rock, new wave, reggae influences, and thought-provoking songwriting. We'll take a look back at the music, the impact, the stories behind the songs, and why this groundbreaking album remains as powerful today as it was in 1983. What are your favorite tracks from Synchronicity? Let us know in the comments and join the conversation! #ThePolice #Synchronicity #Sting #ClassicRock

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV, we're celebrating 35 years of Van Halen's iconic 1991 album, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge! Released on June 17, 1991, this powerhouse album marked a return to a heavier, guitar-driven sound and became one of the biggest records of Van Halen's career, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 and producing classic tracks like "Poundcake," "Runaround," "Judgement Day," "Right Now," and "Top of the World." Join us as we revisit the album's legacy, the incredible performances from Eddie Van Halen, Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony, and Alex Van Halen, and the stories behind one of the most celebrated records in the band's catalog. We'll discuss: 🎸 Eddie Van Halen's legendary "Poundcake" drill intro 🎸 The massive guitar tones that defined the album 🎸 The story behind the instrumental "316" 🎸 How "Top of the World" evolved from a riff first heard in "Jump" 🎸 Why many fans consider F.U.C.K. one of Van Halen's greatest albums Thirty-five years later, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge remains a defining moment in Van Halen history and a landmark album of the rock era. What's your favorite track from the album? Let us know in the comments! Subscribe to Johnny Beane TV for more Van Halen news, history, gear discussions, and exclusive content. #VanHalen #ForUnlawfulCarnalKnowledge #EddieVanHalen #SammyHagar

On this episode of Exclusively Van Halen on Johnny Beane TV: Did Eddie Van Halen think guitar players completely missed the point of his playing? In a revealing 1995 interview with Dweezil Zappa, Eddie didn't hold back. While acknowledging the impact he had on an entire generation of guitarists, he argued that many of his imitators took his innovations and turned them into something "sterile," "calculated," and "typewriter-perfect." For Eddie, guitar was never about speed, flash, or showing off. It was about feel, expression, and telling a story. Drawing inspiration from Eric Clapton, whom he called his biggest influence, Eddie believed every solo should speak to the listener rather than simply display technical ability. He also shared his thoughts on the rise of grunge, the decline of shred guitar, and why he believed music moves in cycles. Surprisingly, Eddie even praised Kurt Cobain for expressing something real through his playing, proving that emotion mattered more to him than technique alone. Was Eddie right? Did guitar players lose the soul of what made his style revolutionary? Join the conversation as we dive into one of Eddie Van Halen's most honest and thought-provoking interviews. #EddieVanHalen #VanHalen #GuitarPlayer #RockHistory