Five of the best from Van Halen

• 1984 (1984) – Key Tracks: “Jump,” “Panama,” “Hot for Teacher.”  This album catapulted Van Halen to their peak commercial success. “Jump” became the band’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The album solidified their place in rock history.
• Van Halen (1978) – Key Tracks: “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “Eruption,” “You Really Got Me.”   Their debut album is often considered one of the greatest in rock history. It introduced Eddie Van Halen’s revolutionary guitar playing to the world and set the stage for the band’s success.
• 5150 (1986) – Key Tracks: “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” “Best of Both Worlds.”   This was the first album with Sammy Hagar as the lead singer marking a shift in the band’s sound. It succeeded commercially, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
• OU812 (1988) – Key Tracks: “When It’s Love,” “Finish What Ya Started,” “Black and Blue.”  This album continued the band’s success with Sammy Hagar, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and producing several hit singles.
• For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (1991) – Key Tracks: “Poundcake,” “Right Now,” “Top of the World.”   This album was another commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The song “Right Now” became iconic and was used in various media, including a famous Pepsi commercial.

1. 1984 (1984)

Van Halen’s 1984 album is a landmark in rock music, showcasing the band’s peak performance and commercial success. Released in January 1984, the album features the chart-topping hit “Jump,” which became Van Halen’s first and only song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album is a powerful blend of hard rock and synth-driven tracks, demonstrating the band’s ability to innovate while staying true to their rock roots. Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work on 1984 is legendary, with riffs that continue to influence guitarists worldwide.

The album’s production, led by Ted Templeman, is polished yet raw, allowing the band’s energy to shine. 1984 reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and went on to sell over 10 million copies in the United States, earning a Diamond certification. Van Halen’s 1984 remains a defining moment in the band’s career and rock history, cementing their place as one of the most influential rock bands of the era.

2. Van Halen (1978)

Van Halen’s 1978 debut album, “Van Halen,” is a cornerstone of rock music, introducing the world to the band’s explosive sound and Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking guitar techniques. Released in February 1978, the album quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to hard rock, combining powerful riffs, energetic vocals, and virtuosic guitar solos. Eddie Van Halen’s two-handed tapping and unique tone set a new standard for rock guitarists, influencing generations.

“Van Halen” achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard 200 and eventually selling over 10 million copies in the United States, earning a Diamond certification. The album’s raw energy and David Lee Roth’s charismatic vocals created a fresh sound that stood out in the late 1970s rock scene. Van Halen’s debut remains a defining album in rock history, establishing the band as one of the most influential acts of the era.

3. 5150 (1986)

“5150” marked a significant turning point in the band’s career as it was their first release with new lead singer Sammy Hagar, following the departure of David Lee Roth. The album successfully introduced a new era for Van Halen, blending their signature hard rock sound with more melodic elements and polished production. Released in March 1986, “5150” quickly climbed the charts, becoming the band’s first album to reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

The album’s success was fueled by hit singles that showcased the band’s evolution, with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work continuing to impress, while Hagar’s vocals brought a fresh dynamic to the group. “5150” was well-received by both fans and critics, selling over six million copies in the United States and solidifying Van Halen’s place at the top of the rock music scene in the 1980s. This album remains a milestone in Van Halen’s legacy.

4. OU812 (1988)

“OU812” continued the band’s successful collaboration with lead singer Sammy Hagar, delivering a blend of hard rock and melodic hooks that resonated with fans. Released in May 1988, “OU812” followed the chart-topping success of “5150” and further established Van Halen’s dominance in the rock music scene. The album quickly reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, fuelled by hit singles highlighting the band’s versatility and evolving sound.

Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work remained a centerpiece, while the band explored broader musical territories, incorporating elements of pop and blues. Hagar’s powerful vocals and charismatic presence complemented the band’s dynamic energy, resulting in a well-rounded album that appealed to longtime fans and a new audience. “OU812” achieved multi-platinum status, selling over four million copies in the United States. The album is a testament to Van Halen’s ability to innovate while maintaining their signature rock edge.

5. For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge (1991)

“For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge” returned to a heavier, guitar-driven sound, solidifying the band’s position as one of rock’s leading forces. Released in June 1991, the album saw the band focusing on raw energy and powerful riffs, with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work taking center stage. Sammy Hagar’s vocals delivered a mix of intensity and melody, complementing the album’s hard rock edge.

“For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and received critical acclaim for its uncompromising approach to rock music. The album’s production, led by Andy Johns, emphasized a straightforward, no-frills sound that resonated with fans and critics alike. Hits from the album received significant airplay, further boosting its success. The album went on to sell over three million copies in the United States, earning multi-platinum status and reinforcing Van Halen’s reputation as a powerhouse in the rock world.