Sabbath's "Tomorrow's Dream" performed by Van Halen and a few curious facts about the iconic bands
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Black SabbathWithout a doubt, one of the most legendary bands in history! You can talk about it for hours, because the history of this band is more than interesting - unique sound, eternal heavy metal classics, arguments about "who was the best vocalist", crazy antics. Ozzy Osbourne... In general - a long and fascinating discussion to the admirers of "Sabbat's" creativity is always provided!
But what few people know is that Black Sabbath are also thought leaders another - no less iconic band, at least one song of which has its place of honour in your personal playlist! I'm talking about Van Halen. American hard rockers were so enamoured with the work of their British counterparts that they long played Sabbath songs at their early concerts!
Sabbath's colossal influence on Van Halen
Today. Van Halen boasts at least a dozen powerful smash hits that are known and loved all over the world! But at the beginning of the journey the band did not have such songs, and was in search of the own of their signature sound. Their first demo record, produced by Kiss' Gene Simmons, was a flop failed. It wasn't until their debut album in 1978 that Van Halen became rock monsters of the world! But what happened in the period between the "starting point" and deafening fame?
At the very beginning of their journey Van Halen (who were then still called the Mammoth) actively conquered local venues, in particular nightclubs. A common practice for many young bands. But what was unusual was that the majority of their set was taken up by tracks Black Sabbath!
By his own admission. Eddie Van Halen (who is sadly no longer with us), he was so in love with what the British rebels were doing that he even wanted to name his band "Rat Salad." - in honour of a Sabbath song!
"We played almost all Black Sabbath songs! And it gave us a tremendous drive!"
But Eddie never tried embellish of his team's abilities at the beginning of their difficult journey to the Olympus of rock:
"In those years when we played in clubs it was difficult to sound at a decent level - largely because of our modest technique, but also largely because we had little experience. And when we did Sabbath tracks, I think we sounded pretty daft! (Eddie smiles). Some things we played differently. We didn't sound like Black Sabbath, but we selflessly strived for it. I think it looked comical. But it was great times and valuable experience!"
Since 1972, Van Halen had been playing in California clubs and quickly gained a reputation as a brutal rock band. The band's skills grew week by week, and with the release of of the debut album they had a meteoric rise to fame! But the love for Sabbath never faded, and today we can enjoy a tribute to the British legends from Eddie and his team!
A cover version of "Tomorrow's Dream."
cover version "Tomorrow's Dream" is Van Halen's truest tribute to their heroes!
We think this version sounds quite decent! The original was released in 1972 as part of the album "Black Sabbath Vol. 4" and showcases the pulsing pure and unbridled sound of the British heavy metallers! Now this song serves as a bridge from the history of some legends to the history of others...
Warm memories
In 1978, Van Halen realised their most bold dream - performed as the opening act for Black Sabbath! Their British idols were touring in support of "Never Say Die!", but the tour was a marred internal confrontations, addictions and other unpleasant moments... Critics noted that Sabbath seemed incredibly "grim and gloomy." against the more energetic American rockers (i.e. Van Halen), for whom this world tour was their first. Nevertheless, the event presented Ozzy Osbourne warm memories.
"They were such nice guys, we had so much fun!"
Osborne particularly singled out Eddie:
"Eddie is an amazing guy! The ease with which he played the guitar was nothing short of inspiring! He was a great musician and the cheerful smile never seemed to leave his face. He looked like he enjoyed every second he was there!"
According to Ozzy, he was shocked by the passing of Van Halen:
"I just couldn't believe it! Eddie was full of life, energy, love for music... He was soulful and sincere. In my memory, he will remain exactly like that..."
Sadly, Eddie Van Halen passed away in 2020 at the age of 65. For many years, he struggled with cancerbut the disease prevailed. The only thing that makes us happy today is that we can still enjoy his game thanks to the recordings and read interesting moments of his biography thanks to the memories of people close to him.
