by Wolfgang Van Halen recently expressed his interest in collaborating with Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan. He made the statement during an appearance on the Everblack Podcast.
The discussion arose when Van Halen was asked about potential future collaborations. He reflected on his recent experience at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony for Ozzy Osbourne, where he connected with Keenan.
When asked, “Is there anyone else that you know you’d love to collaborate with?” Van Halen responded enthusiastically about the Tool vocalist.
“I mean, recently after doing the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame fame thing for Ozzy Osbourne, I hit it off with Maynard, which is kind of crazy because he’s one of my favorite singers of all time,” he said. “Tool is a very important band to me.”
Van Halen then extended what amounts to a public invitation to the acclaimed singer.
“So, I had the opportunity to work with Maynard. I think that would be really f*ckig cool,” he continued. “I would be into that if he was into it.”
The connection between Van Halen and Keenan was forged during a memorable performance that brought together some of rock’s most talented musicians.
Consequence reported that the two artists collaborated during Ozzy Osbourne’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony on October 19, 2024. The tribute performance featured Keenan on vocals and Van Halen on lead guitar, performing classic Osbourne songs including “Crazy Train,” “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” and “No More Tears.”
The all-star backing band included some of rock’s most respected musicians. As mxdwn detailed, the lineup featured Chad Smith on drums, Robert Trujillo on bass, Andrew Watt on rhythm guitar, and Adam Wakeman on keyboards. Longtime Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde also participated in the performance, adding to the significance of the tribute.
Van Halen later opened up about the experience and the pressure he felt during the ceremony. Blabbermouth noted that Van Halen admitted he was “incredibly nervous” to perform at Ozzy Osbourne’s Rock Hall induction. He ultimately delivered electrifying guitar solos that paid tribute to Osbourne’s legendary music.
The statement leaves the door open for a potential collaboration between the two artists. No official plans have been announced. Given their chemistry during the Rock Hall performance and Van Halen’s public enthusiasm, fans of both artists will be watching closely to see if this collaboration comes to fruition.
