Gary Cherone Era (1996–1999)

The adornment recruited metropolis Cherone, frontman of the then defunct Boston-based adornment Extreme. The result was Van Halen III. Many songs were longer and more ethereal. It was a notable oppositeness from their preceding material, with more focus on ballads than traditional sway songs ("How Many Say I", with Eddie on vocals). These changes alienated some fans while failing to attract newborn fans. Sales were slummy by the band's standards, only reaching Gold certification, despite the medium peaking at #4 on the US charts. Van Halen threesome did display a hit however, "Without You", and additionally the song "Fire in the Hole" appeared on the Lethal Weapon 4 soundtrack. Later it was also revealed that Anthony was only permitted by Eddie to endeavor bass on three tracks on the medium and that Eddie played the rest. Anthony conventional a full credit, masking this manifest behind-the-scenes difficulty.

The medium was followed by a tour. The threesome Tour saw Van Halen activity in newborn countries, including prototypal ever visits to Australia and New Zealand.

Shortly afterwards, Van Halen returned to the studio. In early 1999, they started work on a newborn album, rumored to be called Love Again. Working titles of songs included "Left for Dead," "River Wide," "Say Uncle", "You Wear it Well", "More Than Yesterday", "I Don't Miss You...Much," "Love Divine," and "From Here, Where Do We Go?".

Van Halen's newborn medium was finished when Cherone left amicably in November 1999. Citing musical differences, it is likely III's sales and critical getting had a big impact. Touring with Cherone had proven disappointing in terms of attendance. Eddie would adjudge that "the powers that be" (Warner Bros.) had forced his hand in parting with Cherone. Unlike the preceding digit singers, there was no bad blood and Cherone remained in contact with Van Halen. As when Hagar left, speculation resumed on a Roth reunion.