VOA

The Zoo Crew is spinning "VOA" by Sammy Hagar from his 1984 album of the same name, and this track has some wild stories behind it. Sammy Hagar shared on his official website in 2016 that the song was inspired by his frustration over the U.S.S.R. pulling out of the 1984 Olympics, reflecting a bold, pro-USA sentiment. He described the music video as a laughable, over-the-top production costing nearly $400,000, which came out of his royalties—a hefty price for the time. The video, featuring Hagar parachuting and spy-thriller antics, was a nod to action-packed shows like The A-Team or James Bond films. Fans on redrocker.com have noted the song’s drum fills reminiscent of Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll,” with Hagar himself acknowledging Zeppelin’s influence in interviews. The track’s high-energy vibe and subtle political undertones made it a standout, avoiding the overt divisiveness of modern political songs while still packing a punch.

Another gem from Hagar’s reflections is the album’s broader context. Posted on X in 2021, he shared rediscovered behind-the-scenes footage from the "VOA" video shoot, hinting at more archival content for fans. The song’s creation was a pivotal moment, as Hagar recalled presenting it to Geffen Records’ John Kalodner, who saw it as a potential hit, though “I Can’t Drive 55” ultimately stole the spotlight. On Facebook, fans in groups like VOA-Tribute to Sammy Hagar celebrate the track for its raw energy and connection to Hagar’s solo career peak before joining Van Halen. The album, including “VOA,” went platinum, cementing Hagar’s status as the Red Rocker with a knack for anthems that resonated with Zoo Freaks everywhere.

Sammy Hagar’s journey to rock stardom kicked off in Colton, California, where his love for music took root early. Born on October 13, 1947, Hagar was drawn to the gritty energy of rock and roll, influenced by icons like Elvis Presley and Little Richard. His first big break came in the early 1970s as the lead vocalist for Montrose, a hard rock band led by guitarist Ronnie Montrose. Their 1973 debut album, featuring Hagar’s powerful vocals on tracks like “Bad Motor Scooter,” became a cult classic and laid the groundwork for his solo career. After leaving Montrose, Hagar released his debut solo album, Nine on a Ten Scale, in 1976, grinding through years of touring and recording to build a loyal fanbase. His persistence paid off with hits like “I Can’t Drive 55” and albums like VOA, showcasing his signature blend of melodic hard rock and charismatic showmanship.

Hagar’s career skyrocketed when he joined Van Halen in 1985, replacing David Lee Roth and fronting the band through four multi-platinum albums. His time with Van Halen, combined with his solo work and later projects like Chickenfoot, solidified his reputation as a versatile rock powerhouse. Beyond music, Hagar’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through his successful ventures, including Cabo Wabo tequila and a chain of restaurants. Fans can connect with him on his official website, redrocker.com, where he shares tour dates, merch, and personal updates. His social media presence is vibrant, with posts on Facebook, Instagram, and X offering glimpses into his life and music. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, fan communities like the VOA-Tribute to Sammy Hagar Facebook group and the Sammy Hagar Wiki on Fandom provide spaces to celebrate the Red Rocker’s legacy.