Bassist Michael Anthony has confirmed that a documentary about his former band, Van Halen, is in production.
"Filmed an interview today for a Van Halen documentary in the works,” Anthony posted on Instagram on January 6. “Brought up many great memories! I’ll let you all know when it will air. Cameraman John on the left worked video camera on our monsters of rock tour with AC/DC in Europe!"
Few details about the production are known at this time, including the possible participation of other past and current Van Halen members as 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of the release of the group’s groundbreaking self-titled debut album.
Anthony joined Van Halen in 1974 and appeared on the band’s albums and tours through 2004, when he was removed from the lineup by guitarist Eddie Van Halen because he remained friendly with Sammy Hagar after the singer’s stint in the band.
The bassist joined the group’s ill-fated 2004 reunion trek with Hagar only after taking a pay cut and signing away his rights to any future use of the VH brand name in a business move by the guitarist.
Despite being unceremoniously replaced by Eddie’s son, Wolfgang, in 2007, the always-amiable Anthony remains open to the idea of reuniting with the classic Van Halen lineup for a 40th anniversary tour this year.
"I'm always the guy that says never say never,” said Anthony at the 2017 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) show in Anaheim, CA. “But, you know, right now, I'm just having fun doing what I'm doing, and if it happens, it'll happen. I'm obviously open to it, if something happens with it."
Since his departure from the lineup, Anthony has recorded and toured with the Red Rocker and Hagar-led bands Chickenfoot and The Circle.
Van Halen have not revealed any plans for new music or another tour since the end of a 2015 North American tour in support of “Tokyo Dome Live In Concert.”
David Lee Roth was named the No. 10 Rock News Artist Of The Year as part of the 2017 hennemusic Rock News Awards.
See also:
Rock News Artist Of The Year No. 10: DAVID LEE ROTH
AUDIO: Wolfgang Van Halen streams debut solo album preview
Sammy Hagar claims he’s given up on Van Halen reunion
VIDEO: David Lee Roth performs at Summer Spectacular Under The Stars benefit
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