Skid Row guitarist Dave “Snake” Sabo recently opened up about his experience touring with the iconic Eddie Van Halen in 1995, revealing the kind of person the guitar legend truly was.
Eddie Van Halen is widely considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, known not just for his groundbreaking technique but also for his warm personality.
Numerous stories have been shared about Van Halen and his bandmates over the years, including heartfelt tributes from his brother Alex.
However, Sabo’s memories offer a unique, up-close look at the late musician’s kindness and humility.
In an interview with Trevor Joe Lennon, Sabo reminisced about Skid Row’s time as Van Halen’s opening act, expressing immense admiration for Eddie.
When asked what it was like to interact with the guitar hero on a personal level, Sabo didn’t hesitate to shower him with praise.
“He treated us so amazingly,” Sabo recalled. “They all did. They treated us so great. I would see Eddie every day.
I made sure—I wanted to see the soundcheck every day, ’cause I’m just such a fanboy.
And I wanted to be around him and his playing as much as I could while we were out on the road.”
Sabo went on to describe Eddie’s affectionate nature, noting how warmly he was greeted every night before soundcheck.
“I used to walk on stage right before a soundcheck, and he’d walk over to me, and we’d hug each other.
He’d give me a kiss on the lips and ask me how I’m doing. And he was just such a sweetheart.”
For Sabo, touring with Van Halen wasn’t just about witnessing the brilliance of one of rock’s greatest guitarists—it was about experiencing the kindness and generosity of a legend who treated everyone around him with warmth and respect.
