Ep 5. LA Metal

In season 4 episode 5 of Rock & Roll Road Trip with Sammy Hagar, titled "LA Metal," Sammy continues his journey through the iconic music scene of Los Angeles. The episode begins with Sammy and his band heading to the Whisky A Go Go on Sunset Strip to pay homage to the legendary venue that launched the careers of some of the biggest names in rock.

Sammy then meets up with his good friend and fellow musician, Robby Krieger of The Doors, to explore the history of one of LA's most famous neighborhoods, Laurel Canyon. The two rockers visit various landmarks, including the former homes of Jim Morrison and Frank Zappa, and share stories about the wild days of the 60s and 70s music scene.

Next, Sammy heads to Sound City Studios to interview the owner, producer Joe Barresi. Sound City is known for its impressive roster of recording artists, including Nirvana, Tom Petty and Fleetwood Mac. Sammy gets a behind-the-scenes look at the studio's gear and equipment, and learns about its rich history and legacy.

The episode then takes a turn towards the heavier side of LA's music scene, as Sammy meets with Dave Mustaine of Megadeth for a one-on-one conversation about the thrash metal movement of the 80s. The two musicians discuss the challenges of being part of the metal scene during that time, and the struggles that came along with it. With Mustaine, Sammy goes on a tour of the Whisky's metal shrine, inspecting the instruments on display from some of the biggest names in heavy metal.

To conclude the episode, Sammy is joined by Billy Idol, who takes him on a tour of his favorite haunts in the city, including the Sunset Marquis, where they reminisce about their early days in the music industry. Finally, the two hit the stage together at the Whisky, performing a rendition of "Rebel Yell" to a packed house.

Overall, "LA Metal" is a deep dive into the history and legacy of the Los Angeles music scene, with a particular focus on heavy metal. Sammy's conversations with Krieger and Mustaine offer a glimpse into the unique challenges and triumphs of being part of a genre that was often ostracized by the mainstream music industry. Billy Idol's appearance adds a touch of nostalgia and a reminder of the enduring legacy of the city's rock and roll history.