Van Halen Albums

Van Halen albums are among the best-selling albums of all time. The rock music group formed in 1972 and although there have been changes in frontmen over the years, they are still out performing today. Van Halen had more hits in the 1980s than any other rock band and have sold over 80 million records worldwide. The group’s music videos from the '80s rank with the best ever made. The band’s first frontman David Lee Roth’s energetic performances along with founder and lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen’s innovative playing style made watching the videos almost as good as listening to the album.

1. “Van Halen” This was the band’s debut album released in 1978. It sold over 10 million copies in the United States and, to some fans, remains the best work the group has ever done. The album features the hit song “Runnin’ with the Devil,” which was named the ninth greatest hard rock song in history by "VH1." Other songs off the album include “You Really Got Me” and “Jamie’s Cryin.” Lead singer David Lee Roth displays his considerable vocal talents on the album and his voice never sounded better.
2. “Diver Down” This album came out in 1982 and was the fifth one from the group. With only 4 million copies sold, it was not as popular as the band’s debut album. “(Oh) Pretty Woman” and “Dancing in the Street” are the two most memorable songs on the album. Both of these songs were actually written by other performers, making them “cover” songs when Van Halen played them. Eddie Van Halen’s guitar playing is spectacular on this album.
3. “1984” This album came out in 1984 and eventually reached the second spot on Billboard. “Jump” reached number one on Billboard and is still one of the best songs the group has ever produced. Other hits from the album include “Panama” and “Hot for Teacher.” Singer David Lee Roth was replaced by Sammy Hagar after this album.
4. “5150” This 1986 album reached the top spot on Billboard. While some fans did not initially accept Hagar as Roth’s replacement, many were won over after listening to this album. The best song on the album is “Why Can’t This Be Love,” which showcases the talents of Hagar as a singer. “Best of Both Worlds” and “Love Walks In” are two other solid songs from the album.
5. “OU812” Released in 1988, this hit album also reached Billboard’s top spot. The title of the album was a dig at former lead singer Roth’s 1986 solo album “Eat ‘Em and Smile.” The album includes songs “Black and Blue,” “Feels So Good” and “When It’s Love,” all of which had success on the charts.