Bloomington, IN · classic-rock · hard rock

David Lee Roth

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Van Halen's original ringmaster — high kicks, higher hair, and rock's greatest game-show-host grin.

David Lee Roth was born in Bloomington, Indiana, in 1954, the son of ophthalmologist Nathan Hirsh Roth. His uncle Manny Roth owned the Cafe Wha? venue in New York City, and all four of his grandparents had immigrated from Russia. The family later settled in Pasadena, California, after time in New Castle, Indiana.

In his teens Roth attended the Webb Schools in Claremont and John Muir High School in Pasadena. As a child he was treated for hyperactivity and spent time at a ranch for troubled teens meant to build a sense of responsibility. He was singing with a band called the Red Ball Jets when he met Eddie and Alex Van Halen while attending Pasadena City College.

Roth joined the brothers' band Mammoth as lead singer; the group changed its name to Van Halen in 1974, reportedly at his suggestion. He became the original singer of Van Halen, fronting the band through its first six albums before departing in 1985. His delivery was as much showmanship as singing, ad-libs, stage patter and acrobatics, and it defined the group's public image alongside Eddie Van Halen's guitar playing.

His solo career opened with the Crazy from the Heat EP and its cover of "California Girls," followed by Eat 'Em and Smile, recorded with guitarist Steve Vai and bassist Billy Sheehan.

Roth rejoined Van Halen in 2006 for a North American tour that became the band's highest-grossing to date, and the following year he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the group. He has also performed as a solo headliner and in Las Vegas residency settings.

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