Sammy Hagar faced criticism from Van Halen members for his business ventures but rappers made it okay.
The Red Rocker recently sat down with Variety for an interview and discussed his outside musical activities:
“It’s funny because in recent years the rappers kind of made it OK. But when I was doing it, it wasn’t cool. When I was in Van Halen, I used to get so much sh*t from the guys: ‘Man you’re always trying to start some kind of business, why don’t you just focus on the music?’ But the important thing for me is that I don’t endorse anything.”
The singer went on to talk about what kind of way he followed in his business efforts:
“Endorsements are still cheesy as f*ck, I don’t care what anyone says. So I was careful not to endorse: instead, I started companies. I built Cabo Wabo. I went down to Jalisco and met with farmers when I started making tequila. I had to do everything, and I had a blast. It was awesome. That’s the whole difference between what I do and what a lot of other people do: I build the company, I create the thing.”
What Is Hagar’s Motivation For His Business Ventures?
In the 1990s, Hagar teamed up with a local developer after enjoying Baja California on vacation. They opened a bar in Cabo San Lucas. Over time, this single bar grew into a big business, including a beverage line and several Cabo Wabo Cantinas and Sammy’s Beach Bar and Grill locations across different states.
In 2022, Sammy joined a chat with Seltzer Nation and said he didn’t care much about making a lot of money for himself:
“If I get a good idea, I want to see it happen. I love the ride. I could care less about selling it or making all the money in the end. The only thing money is good for is helping other people now in my life. So, I’m motivated to be successful because I don’t want to lose. Who the hell wants to start a business that fails? Nope. I am not interested. So, I still want to win. By winning now, you get a jackpot. You get this pot of gold. I’ve learned to give that pot of gold back to communities.”
In 2021, the frontman also admitted to throwing parties, touring, performing for his fans, and playing at venues to promote his business ventures. Hagar and Palms Casino Resort are throwing a party to celebrate the opening of Sammy’s Island on May 17.
