Valerie Bertinelli may no longer be married to Eddie Van Halen, but she’s still keeping her eyes on the band’s current tour because their 20-year old son, Wolfgang, is currently handling bass duties on the trip.
This week, Bertinelli spoke with WRIF Detroit about the “A Different Kind Of Truth” tour, providing some insight for fans.
When asked about the backlash over Wolfgang being on board instead of former VH bassist Michael Anthony, Valerie said, "I loved Mike, too. I thought he was a really nice guy. Still do. But the only way this tour is happening is because Eddie gets to play with his son Wolfie. Otherwise this tour wouldn't be going on. It really wouldn't."
"This brings joy to Ed," continued Bertinelli. "That's what he wants to do now — just have fun playing. As great as Mike is, this wouldn't be happening if Mike was still in the band. There would be no tour, there would be no album, there would be no nothing."
"For any fans that are angry that Mike is not in the band anymore,” she explained, “well at least they get to see a version of the band, because they wouldn't be if Mike was. You're getting to see Dave [Lee Roth] and Ed and Al play together, and I know I am a very proud mom and I am a little prejudiced, but my son kicks ass! I mean he is an amazing musician.”
Check out the full session with Val at WRIF here.
Van Halen Van Halen – Blood And Fire
2012 tour dress rehearsal
The Forum – Los Angeles, CA – February 8, 2012
See also:
More Van Halen talk from Sammy Hagar
Sammy Hagar continues to slam the new Van Halen
Classic Van Halen featured on In The Studio this week