The Time Van Halen Opened For Journey Before They Became Headliners Themselves

March 20, 2025

In the summer of 1979, the sun blazed over the massive outdoor stage at the California Jam II Festival. A sea of fans cheered wildly as bands from all over the country gathered to entertain the thousands in attendance. In the lineup was a relatively new band called Van Halen, who would soon become legends, but at that moment, they were still opening for the bigger act, Journey. This was a pivotal moment in their journey, one that would test their passion and determination for music.

As the crowd buzzed with anticipation, Eddie Van Halen paced nervously backstage. He glanced at his bandmates—David Lee Roth, Michael Anthony, and Alex Van Halen—each feeling the weight of the moment. They had spent years honing their craft in small clubs, pouring their hearts into every riff and lyric. Now, they were about to play in front of an audience that could change their lives forever. Eddie strummed his guitar, feeling the notes igniting a fire inside him. There was no turning back; this was their chance to shine.

When it was finally their turn, the energy shifted. As the band exploded onto the stage, the audience erupted into cheers. Eddie’s guitar solo pierced through the air, showcasing his incredible talent. David’s charismatic presence captivated the crowd. With every song, the walls of doubt crumbled; they poured their souls into “Runnin’ with the Devil,” and the crowd sang back with equal fervor. In that moment, they weren’t just an opening act; they were a force of nature, shaking the very foundations of the festival.

But as exhilarating as the performance was, there were challenges that lay ahead. After the concert, whispers spread among industry insiders about Van Halen’s undeniable talent. Yet they were still overshadowed by Journey’s popularity and ambition. It was a bittersweet taste of success, knowing they had given their all and still had more to prove. Determined not to let this moment pass them by, they worked tirelessly, writing new songs and refining their sound. The sting of being an opener became their fuel, pushing them to become something greater.

Within a year, everything began to change. Van Halen released their self-titled debut album, which rocketed them into the spotlight. Songs like “Eruption” and “You Really Got Me” became anthems, captivating a new generation eager for something fresh and electrifying. The band that once opened for Journey was now headlining their own tours, playing to sold-out arenas. With every note, they taught the world that perseverance and passion could transform dreams into reality.

Looking back, Eddie remembered that day at the California Jam II Festival as a turning point—not just for them, but for anyone with a dream. They had walked onto that stage as the underdogs and left it ready to conquer the world. The experience shaped their identity and taught them that every setback is just a setup for a comeback. Their journey was a testament to the power of music and the unwavering belief that, sometimes, the most significant victories come from the humblest beginnings.