About this album
Where they were
Released on April 14, 1982, 'Diver Down' was Van Halen's fifth studio album, arriving after the commercially successful 'Fair Warning'. At this point in their career, the band was riding a wave of popularity but faced pressure to deliver hits, leading to a collection that features both original tracks and covers.
Why it matters
'Diver Down' peaked at number 3 on the Billboard 200 and included the chart-topping single '(Oh) Pretty Woman'. The album is notable for its blend of original material and covers, contributing to discussions about artistic integrity versus commercial appeal during the early '80s rock scene.
Essential tracks
- "(Oh) Pretty Woman" — This cover of Roy Orbison's classic became one of Van Halen's biggest hits, demonstrating their ability to reinterpret iconic songs with a fresh rock twist.
- "Cathedral" — An instrumental piece showcasing Eddie Van Halen's innovative finger-tapping guitar technique, highlighting his virtuosic skills and unique approach to composition.
- "Little Guitars" — Blending flamenco influences with hard rock, this track illustrates the band's musical diversity and showcases Eddie's intricate guitar work.
Release Date
April 14, 1982
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Where Have All the Good Times Gone! 3:03
- 2 Hang ’Em High 3:29
- 3 Cathedral 1:22
- 4 Secrets 3:27
- 5 Intruder 1:39
- 6 (Oh) Pretty Woman 2:55
- 7 Dancing in the Street 3:46
- 8 Little Guitars (intro) 0:42
- 9 Little Guitars 3:49
- 10 Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now) 2:45
- 11 The Full Bug 3:22
- 12 Happy Trails 1:05