The Reason John Bonham Once “Took a Swing” at Alex Van Halen—According to Bonham’s Son

While part of groups like Black Country Communion and Sammy Hagar and the Circle, Jason Bonham seemed to be born with music thanks to his father John Bonham. Throughout his time in the spotlight, John showcased his amazing talent as he performed as the drummer for the iconic Led Zeppelin. Sadly, he passed away in September of 1980. Wanting to honor his father, Jason has performed with Led Zeppelin numerous times over the year. But recently, he recalled how his father “took a swing” at Alex Van Halen. 

Speaking with KSHE 95, Jason explained how his meeting with Van Halen started off a little awkward. “It’s 40 years since I saw Mike play at Donington. My wife and I went to Donington – Monsters of Rock – AC/DC, Van Halen. And I got to meet Alex that day… Leonard [Haze] from Y&T introduced me. He came up – this is a classic – and I’m like, ‘Oh my God, it’s Alex Van Halen!’

Although excited to meet Van Halen, Jason continued, “He goes, ‘Hey Leonard!’ ‘This is Jason Bonham.’ And he goes, ‘So what?’ He just went, ‘So what?’”

[RELATED: Behind the Death of Classic Rock’s Powerful Drummer John Bonham]

John Bonham Had Little Time For Fans

With Jason currently touring with Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar on the Best of All Worlds tour, he eventually asked Anthony about the incident. Not knowing the past Van Halen and his father shared, Anthony told him, “He goes, ‘Well, we heard your dad was in (Sunset Strip bar) the Rainbow, and we were playing Gazzarri’s next door. We kind of ran around the Rainbow and tried to say ‘hi’ to him.”

While excited to meet him, Anthony continued, “Alex kind of like jumped over the [barrier] and went to put his hand out… And your dad took a swing at him!’” He added, “Maybe that’s why he was a little pissed.” 

Although years have passed since the incident, it seems that Van Halen might still be a little sour about his meeting with John. But for his father, it continues to add to the legacy of one of the greatest drummers in the history of rock. 

(Ilpo Musto/Shutterstock)