Sean McNabb has nothing but admiration for David Lee Roth after joining the legendary frontman’s solo band, describing the former Van Halen singer as an incredible performer and an even better boss.
In a recent interview with 94.9 and 104.5 The Pick radio station in Idaho Falls, Idaho, McNabb opened up about what it has been like stepping into Roth’s touring lineup, calling the opportunity a lifelong dream come true.
“Oh, dude, it’s incredible,” McNabb said. “I was the biggest Van Halen fan growing up. Those records changed all of our lives. To be able to hit the stage with probably the greatest frontman to ever do it—he pretty much wrote the book on rock and roll fronting, it’s incredible. And yeah, my boss is awesome.”
Living The Van Halen Dream
McNabb, who replaced Ryan Wheeler as bassist in Roth’s touring band, admitted that performing Van Halen classics alongside the man who originally sang them still gives him chills.
Among his favorite songs to perform are “I’m the One” and “Beautiful Girls,” both staples of Roth’s celebrated catalog.
“We’ve got a list of about 24 or 25 songs that we rotate,” McNabb explained. “Just getting to play this music with the guy, I still get goosebumps every night.”
Respect For Michael Anthony’s Legacy
Taking over bass duties on classic Van Halen material also comes with the challenge of honoring the work of longtime bassist Michael Anthony.
McNabb praised Anthony as “one of the coolest guys” and acknowledged that the bass parts remain both technically demanding and rewarding.
Having previously performed Van Halen music with tribute project Brown M&Ms, McNabb said he had already spent years studying the band’s catalog. Even so, he continues to discover new nuances by revisiting vintage concert footage.
“I’m always learning something from watching old live videos from the ’80s,” he said. “Some of the songs are a handful, but that’s what I live for.”
A Veteran Of The Hard Rock Scene
McNabb brings decades of experience to Roth’s band. Throughout his career, he has performed with notable hard rock and metal acts including Quiet Riot, Dokken, Lynch Mob, Great White and House of Lords, while also building a résumé as an actor, singer, composer and television host.
Roth’s Tour Rolls On
David Lee Roth, 71, launched his 2026 solo tour in April after returning to the road in 2025 following an earlier announcement that he planned to retire from touring. The current “Don’t Love Me, Rent Me” tour features a setlist packed with Van Halen classics alongside selections from Roth’s solo career.
Backing Roth on stage are guitarist Al Estrada, bassist Sean McNabb, drummer Francis Valentino and keyboardist Danny Wagner, with additional backing vocalists rounding out the live lineup. The tour is currently scheduled to continue through early September.
For McNabb, however, the biggest takeaway isn’t just playing iconic songs, it’s sharing the stage with one of rock’s most charismatic entertainers.
Judging by his enthusiastic praise, the new bassist is enjoying every minute of the ride.
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