IMAGES AND WORDS: GREG VITALICH | If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to step into a time machine and land smack in the middle of the 1980s rock ‘n’ roll scene, David Lee Roth’s show in San Diego was your answer.
On a crisp night in San Diego, David Lee Roth, backed by an incredible band and five powerhouse backup singers, delivered a high-energy, nostalgia-packed performance that celebrated the glory days of the mighty Van Halen. With a setlist of 18 iconic VH classics, Roth proved that even at 70 years old, he’s still the ultimate showman, bringing swagger, humor, and a whole lot of fun to the stage by the bay. This was Diamond Dave at his finest, and this was one hell of a show!
From the opening notes of “Panama,” the energy at Humphrey’s was 240v plug and play electric. Roth and his band tore through a setlist that was a dream come true for any Van Halen fan including “Runnin’ With the Devil,” “Dance the Night Away,” and one of my all-time favorites off 1984, “Hot for Teacher.” The crowd erupted as deeper cuts like “Drop Dead Legs” and “Romeo Delight” showcased the band’s versatility and Roth’s ability to keep the audience engaged and electrified.
Roth’s latest band was nothing short of spectacular. Al Estrada on guitar delivered a masterclass in channeling the late, great Eddie Van Halen, nailing every riff and solo with precision and passion. His performance on “Mean Street” and “Unchained” was jaw-dropping, earning him thunderous applause from the crowd. The rhythm section, featuring Ryan Wheeler on bass and Francis Valentino on drums, kept the grooves tight and the energy high all night long. All three are studs and well worth the price of admission alone.
And Roth’s backup singers? Holly hell! Stevie Notes, Kurt Lykes, Juneau Lake, Devin, and DeAndre Washington were the unsung heroes of the night. Their harmonies added depth and richness to every track, from the soaring choruses of “Beautiful Girls” to the anthemic “Ain’t Talkin’ ’bout Love.” They carried the heavy vocal lifting, allowing Roth to focus on his signature showmanship. Their energy was infectious, and their chemistry with the band elevated the entire performance in ways that made Monday’s performance a true joy to behold.
And enough of the DLR vocal bashing. He may not have the vocal range he once did, but he more than made up for it with his larger-than-life personality. Whether he was cracking trademark quips, twirling his mic stand, or leading the crowd in a call-and-response of “Who’s the show?” (to which the audience roared, “We the show!”), Roth’s charisma was undeniable. During “Panama,” he even improvised a bit about being in a boat, gazing at the nearby marina—a classic Roth moment that had the crowd in stitches.
But for all of Roth’s fans in attendance, this wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of Van Halen’s legacy and the enduring power of their music. Roth’s ability to bring these standards to life, backed by a band and singers who could match the original recordings note for note, was a testament to the timelessness of this music. The night ended with a raucous rendition of “Everybody Wants Some” and, of course, “Jump,” leaving the audience screaming for more.
Plain and simple, Monday night at Humphrey’s was a party, and David Lee Roth was its consummate host. If you’re a fan of Van Halen, rock ‘n’ roll, or just a good time, this is a show you can’t afford to miss. Diamond Dave is a living legend, and his 2025 tour is a masterclass in 100% unadulterated fun. Grab your tickets, throw on your best Hawaiian shirt (or assless chaps), and get ready to dance the night away—because this is one show you’ll be talking about for years and years to come.
