How Push Comes To Shove By Van Halen Was An Unexpected Dive Into Reggae Influences

March 20, 2025

It was the summer of 1981, and Van Halen was riding high on the success of their first two albums, both of which had taken rock music by storm. With their electrifying guitar riffs and energetic performances, they had the world at their feet. But deep down, Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist, was feeling a tug towards something different. He loved music in all its forms, and the vibrant, rhythmic sounds of reggae had begun to resonate with him. Little did he know, this passion would lead to one of the most surprising tracks in their catalog, “Push Comes to Shove.”

As the band started working on their album “Diver Down,” Eddie found himself yearning to experiment. He listened to classic reggae artists like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh, soaking up the grooves and melodies. He realized that reggae had a unique way of expressing life’s struggles and joys, and he wanted to infuse that spirit into a rock anthem. With his bandmates—David Lee Roth, Alex Van Halen, and Michael Anthony—Eddie stepped into the studio, eager to share his vision. He proposed merging their classic rock sound with reggae influences to create something fresh and unexpected.

At first, the idea met with mixed reactions. David Lee Roth, known for his flamboyant rock persona, was skeptical. Rock and reggae? It seemed like an odd combination, but Eddie, passionate and persistent, convinced the band to give it a shot. As they began to play with reggae rhythms and syncopated beats, something magical happened. The music transformed into a lively and infectious groove, and “Push Comes to Shove” was born. The track featured a catchy melody, a groovy guitar line, and a laid-back vibe that was unlike any of their previous work.

When the song was released, fans were initially unsure what to think. Some loved the freshness, while others missed the hard-hitting rock sound they were used to. But as it played on the radio, more listeners began to embrace the blend of styles. It was a testament to Eddie’s creativity and willingness to push boundaries in music. Rather than being confined to one genre, Van Halen showed that they could take risks and evolve, proving that great art often comes from unexpected places.

This dive into reggae not only showcased the band’s versatility but also had a profound impact on Eddie’s career. He realized that music had no limits, inspiring him to continue exploring new sounds throughout his life. The experience strengthened the bond between the band members, pushing them to support each other’s artistic visions despite their differences. They learned that music is a powerful language that can unite diverse influences, and from that moment on, they embraced experimentation as a key part of their identity.

Years later, when Eddie reflected on that time, he felt grateful for the adventurous spirit that led to “Push Comes to Shove.” It became a reminder to him and his fans that if you are brave enough to explore the unknown, beautiful things can happen. The story of that reggae-infused track became a symbol of resilience and passion, inspiring countless artists to push their own boundaries and discover the music that truly resonates within them.