Yes, Van Halen did tour with Black Sabbath.
The Iconic 1978 European Tour
In a truly memorable pairing of rock legends, Van Halen shared the stage with the groundbreaking heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath. This significant collaboration took place during Van Halen's 1978 Europe tour, where they served as the opening act for Black Sabbath. This period marked a pivotal moment for both bands, particularly for Van Halen, who were rapidly emerging as a dominant force in the music world.
This tour provided Van Halen with crucial early exposure to European audiences, allowing them to showcase their explosive live performances and dynamic sound. It helped solidify their global presence alongside established titans like Black Sabbath.
Key Details of the 1978 Tour
Here’s a snapshot of the joint tour:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year of Tour | 1978 |
| Geographic Location | Europe |
| Van Halen's Role | Opening Act |
| Headlining Band | Black Sabbath |
Significance and Impact
- Global Exposure: For Van Halen, opening for a band of Black Sabbath's stature offered unparalleled exposure, introducing their groundbreaking sound to a wider international audience.
- Witnessing History: Fans who attended these concerts were treated to a unique double-bill featuring two bands that would go on to define distinct eras of rock and heavy metal.
- Early Glimpses: Even low-quality photos from this period capture the raw energy and iconic performances of both bands during this legendary tour. An example of such a rare photo from this tour can be seen here.
