Sammy Hagar, one of the music industry's smartest, wealthiest, successful and most endearing characters, celebrates a milestone birthday today (Friday) -- number-70.
Raised in Fontana, California, Hagar got his first break as a member of Montrose. He says his childhood served him well not only in his musical endeavors, but also in planning for a successful life. “Being a poor kid is a little humiliating and it instilled in me a desire to be somebody. It's where all my drive comes from. I was willing to work hard to ensure I was never poor again. And now, it’s like, I still got that feeling but it drives me to wanna give back and to show kids that if you work hard there’s gonna be an open door out.”
On the musical side of things, he was really coming into his own as a solo artist with songs such as "I Can't Drive 55," "Heavy Metal" and "There's Only One Way to Rock" before accepting an offer to join Van Halen in 1985, a move that not only made him a household name, but one that also made the band more successful than ever.
Since parting ways with the Van Halen brothers in 1996, he's gone out on his own, has reunited with Van Halen, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of VH, has launched successful bands such as Chickenfoot and his current outfit, The Circle, has written a best-selling autobiography, and has dedicated his life to philanthropy -- donating back to local food banks in every tour city he plays, and more.