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Runnin' with the Devil: A Backstage Pass to the Wild Times, Loud Rock, and the Down and Dirty Truth Behind the Making of Van Halen
The manager who shepherded Van Halen from obscurity to rock stardom goes behind the scenes to tell the complete, unadulterated story of David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen, and the legendary band that changed rock music. Van Halen’s rise in the 1980s was one of the most thrilling the music world had ever seen—their mythos an epic party, a sweaty, sexy, never-ending rock extravaganza. During this unparalleled run of success, debauchery, and drama, no one was closer to the band than Noel Monk. A man who’d worked with some of rock’s biggest and most notorious names, Monk spent seven years with Van Halen, serving first as their tour manger then as their personal manager until 1985, when both he and David Lee Roth exited as controversy, backstabbing, and disappointment consumed the band. Throughout Van Halen’s meteoric rise and abrupt halt, this confidant, fixer, friend, and promoter saw it all and lived to tell. Now, for the first time, he shares the most outrageous escapades—from their coming of age to their most shocking behavior on the road; from Eddie’s courtship and high profile wedding to Valerie Bertinelli to the incredible drug use which would ultimately lead to everyone’s demise. Sharing never-before-told stories, Monk paints a compelling portrait of Eddie Van Halen, bringing into focus the unique combination of talent, vision, hardship, and naiveté that shaped one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time—and made him and his brother vulnerable to the trappings and failings of fame. Illustrated with dozens of rare photographs from Monk’s vaults, Runnin’ with the Devil is manna from rock heaven no Van Halen fan can miss.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published June 13, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 399 reviews
November 20, 2017
This is the second rock biography I've read about VH recently, the other being Van Halen Rising: How a Southern California Backyard Party Band Saved Heavy Metal. This may confuse some because I am not a big VH fan. Despite having one of the best guitarists, I find their lyrics mostly unsatisfying and their lead singer's voice extremely limited. Nonetheless, I find their story interesting and I love rock bios.
Anyone who was around in the early 1980s and was into rock has to remember how huge VH was. But somehow, after their most successful album, they fell part.
This book tells the story from about where "Van Halen Rising" left off, when the new tour manager, later manager, came in, until his exit, right before the original VH ended.
It's an eye-opening rock bio, revealing how naive these four guys were. It's no surprise that they were clueless about the music business, but they were clueless about so much more, like Edward Van Halen, faced with a paternity suit, not being sure whether he could have gotten the girl pregnant through oral sex. The band not realizing that they were paying for all the damage they were doing to hotels, not Warner Bros. Edward breaking down and crying because he's homesick.
And, of course, loads of drugs, alcohol, and sex. And cruelty. (After reading this, I want nothing but success for the painfully disrespected Michael Anthony.)
A must if you are a VH fan. Still a great read if you are a rock fan who is not that into VH.
Anyone who was around in the early 1980s and was into rock has to remember how huge VH was. But somehow, after their most successful album, they fell part.
This book tells the story from about where "Van Halen Rising" left off, when the new tour manager, later manager, came in, until his exit, right before the original VH ended.
It's an eye-opening rock bio, revealing how naive these four guys were. It's no surprise that they were clueless about the music business, but they were clueless about so much more, like Edward Van Halen, faced with a paternity suit, not being sure whether he could have gotten the girl pregnant through oral sex. The band not realizing that they were paying for all the damage they were doing to hotels, not Warner Bros. Edward breaking down and crying because he's homesick.
And, of course, loads of drugs, alcohol, and sex. And cruelty. (After reading this, I want nothing but success for the painfully disrespected Michael Anthony.)
A must if you are a VH fan. Still a great read if you are a rock fan who is not that into VH.
July 30, 2019
Incredible. Didn't think it was possible, but the testimonial of general assholery of this bend, except Michael, managed to make me disgusted even with what they did good: their music itself. Until I went and relistened the stuff and refreshed memory. The fuckers made some really, really, fantastic music.
But. What a bunch of ungrateful, though talented, little pricks. Fame is one of those convenient litmus tests of character ingrained in the life tissue itself. Three quarters of the bend failed at it, miserably.
I tried to watch some of their videos. Couldn't. I can still endure, if not enjoy so much any more, some of their legendary tunes, without having to look at their backstabing, permed-haired forms.
Enough of the rant. The book itself is on the level of best rock and roll biographies I've read. This is how you do it. And this is what you need for it: insider person, who spent time with the band, practically 24/7. After the band member himself, manager of the band is the next on the list.
And this one has story to tell. I believe credibility of the facts is easy to check for all the sceptics. Without revealing details and spoiling anything, in this book you'll find new definition of ungratefulness, immaturity, treachery and low lifeism.
The book is well written and to me, it was very fun to read. It's full of dirty details, feeling of greatness of it all, and hope, that it will all, somehow, result in fair, honest, harmonious resolution, like hitting the root note in exact moment when the chord changes. Chord did change, so to speak, but the key note? Let's say it got pulled out of root.
And it was Van Hagar ever since, as all the fans know.
This book. Some call it revenge, I call it truth. The real revenge, as always, is a bleed. Out of one's pocket, or the veins. See what I did there? It's almost a palatable, soft metal verse.
The bleed didn't happen, probably never will. And yet, the author's approach is balanced, level headed, far more than I'd be capable of. He also gives credit in abundance - where credit is due. Even after all unjustice, he's still proud, as he says, to have been part of one of the greatest bands ever.
Fantastic book.
But. What a bunch of ungrateful, though talented, little pricks. Fame is one of those convenient litmus tests of character ingrained in the life tissue itself. Three quarters of the bend failed at it, miserably.
I tried to watch some of their videos. Couldn't. I can still endure, if not enjoy so much any more, some of their legendary tunes, without having to look at their backstabing, permed-haired forms.
Enough of the rant. The book itself is on the level of best rock and roll biographies I've read. This is how you do it. And this is what you need for it: insider person, who spent time with the band, practically 24/7. After the band member himself, manager of the band is the next on the list.
And this one has story to tell. I believe credibility of the facts is easy to check for all the sceptics. Without revealing details and spoiling anything, in this book you'll find new definition of ungratefulness, immaturity, treachery and low lifeism.
The book is well written and to me, it was very fun to read. It's full of dirty details, feeling of greatness of it all, and hope, that it will all, somehow, result in fair, honest, harmonious resolution, like hitting the root note in exact moment when the chord changes. Chord did change, so to speak, but the key note? Let's say it got pulled out of root.
And it was Van Hagar ever since, as all the fans know.
This book. Some call it revenge, I call it truth. The real revenge, as always, is a bleed. Out of one's pocket, or the veins. See what I did there? It's almost a palatable, soft metal verse.
The bleed didn't happen, probably never will. And yet, the author's approach is balanced, level headed, far more than I'd be capable of. He also gives credit in abundance - where credit is due. Even after all unjustice, he's still proud, as he says, to have been part of one of the greatest bands ever.
Fantastic book.
July 5, 2017
40% of this is about t-shirt sales. The other 60% is Monk explaining why he is/was smarter than everybody in VH. Cool!
December 23, 2017
I have been a Van Halen fan since I was 10 years old, and their music has formed the backdrop of many of my life's experiences. So when I saw that their former manager had a tell-all out, I was curious to see what I could learn about the band.
Noel Monk's story of the backstage stories of Van Halen may be incredibly accurate. But the stories are so-so, and the book comes off sounding like St. Monk was the patron saint of rock 'n roll. Even when he's reporting his somewhat questionable practices, he comes off as sort of angelic.
Believe me, I have no doubt that the characterization of the band members is probably spot-on. I can completely believe that David Lee Roth is a self-centered ass, or that Alex was jealous of his brother, or that Eddie was sort of going along with things in an alcoholic, drug-induced haze. It seemed like Michael Anthony was sort of made out to be a non-entity; and I am really curious about what his story is, particularly after he was forced into a lesser partnership position, though he ended up staying on with the band for many years afterward.
Overall, the book was neither particularly well-written nor particularly insightful.
Noel Monk's story of the backstage stories of Van Halen may be incredibly accurate. But the stories are so-so, and the book comes off sounding like St. Monk was the patron saint of rock 'n roll. Even when he's reporting his somewhat questionable practices, he comes off as sort of angelic.
Believe me, I have no doubt that the characterization of the band members is probably spot-on. I can completely believe that David Lee Roth is a self-centered ass, or that Alex was jealous of his brother, or that Eddie was sort of going along with things in an alcoholic, drug-induced haze. It seemed like Michael Anthony was sort of made out to be a non-entity; and I am really curious about what his story is, particularly after he was forced into a lesser partnership position, though he ended up staying on with the band for many years afterward.
Overall, the book was neither particularly well-written nor particularly insightful.
August 31, 2017
Those Spoiled, Rotten Rock Stars …
I’ve read numerous books that detail the typical debauchery and fame associated with rock and roll music. Whether they’re written by current/former members of a band or managers, the books usually follow the same set of rules: 1) the band is not what it once was 2) there are always tensions/troubles amongst the members and 3) drugs, alcohol and sex contribute largely to both 1) and 2). While every band is generally illustrated as being more decadent that others, the stories are all basically the same … the only difference being how believable the stories are and how well those stories are told. Van Halen’s story is neither shocking nor unique, but Noel Monk’s RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL serves an interesting and believable snapshot of Van Halen’s early days that is worth reading.
What I like best about RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL is that is captures the explosive and raw original lineup of Van Halen (brothers Alex and Eddie Van Halen, David Lee Roth and Michael Anthony) … not the milquetoast-era Van Halen with Sammy Hagar (sorry, Van Hagar is not the band I grew up listening to). Noel Monk, who became the band’s manager after serving as its tour manager, offers readers a fly-on-the wall perspective of those critical, decadent years (1978-1985) that made Van Halen a modern pillar of the rock and roll Parthenon.
Honestly, nothing that Noel Monk writes about Van Halen is really THAT outrageous or unbelievable. Right off the bat, he confirms what even casual Van Halen fans assumed about the band: the lead singer is an insecure prima-donna, the guitar wizard is in his own world, the drummer plays yes-man to his uber-talented brother and the quiet bass player stays in the shadows like a stow-a-way on a cruise ship. This eclectic group of individuals contributed to a chemical equation that was brilliant, yet fragile and combustible. Monk elaborates on what we already know … this incarnation of the band wasn’t meant to last. I found his storytelling both intriguing, entertaining and I every time I put the book down, I looked forward to picking it back up again to continue the journey. As stated previously, there really isn’t anything too shocking … I haven’t read a biopic of a famous rock band yet that wasn’t peppered with drugs and sex; Van Halen certainly had its fair share of both. I did find the rather “noobish” nature of the band members somewhat funny to read about. Edward Van Halen is portrayed as a cherubic kid all the way through book. Even though his musical virtuosity puts him in the same lofty status as Jimi Hendrix, the book conveys him as somewhat socially awkward and quite naive, even when courting his future wife, Valeri Bertinelli. The best parts of the book, though, are those with David Lee Roth. The “stud on stage” is, surprise, characterized as all bark and no bite … Monk accounts for numerous occasions where Roth’s mouth puts himself in embarrassing situations. Even though Monk calls Roth out for being less manly than his stage persona and a singer with limited ability, the author frequently affirms the spandex-clad Ken Doll as possessing the highest wattage in a 4-pack of dim bulbs. Business-savvy and artfully self-promoting, Monk asserts that no other singer was more suited to write and vocalize the lyrics that accompanied Eddie Van Halen’s trademark music style ... without the singer and the guitarist, Van Halen would not exist.
Aside from accounting the personal side of band members, Monk provides us with the hectic and thankless job of managing a headlining rock band. We get a healthy dose of managerial issues that rendered Monk as more of a firefighter … there were always fires needing to be extinguished. Whether it be tricking a major record label into ignoring a contract deadline to re-negotiate a better deal for the band, fighting counterfeit merchandise peddlers (literally and figuratively) or serving as the glue and tape that holds the band together … we get a clear idea of the pressure Monk experienced with Van Halen. What is shocking is how much the band needed him, yet for his entire tenure, Monk never received anything but a month-to-month contract.
The only issue I had with the book is guessing the rationale for writing the book. While not an overt hit-job on the band that unceremoniously dumped him, Monk presents himself as ultimately being victimized. There is a slight tone of saintliness throughout and Monk often uses “we” when referring to the band’s success on many levels; we never get any indication that he did anything wrong, so it’s easy to detect a slight whiff of sour grapes. This book was written shortly after the legal deadline allowing him write about the band had passed; one can assume different degrees of payback were motives in writing the book. Regardless, I still felt it was written in an honest and sincere manner. If anything, the book is openly empathetic to Van Halen’s bass player, Michael Anthony, who is duped and dumped-on by the other band members to this very day … probably the saddest and most pathetic aspect of Van Halen.
This is one of the better rock biographies I’ve read in a long time (and I’ve read quite a few). Most of these books try to portray bands as Vikings who rape and pillage everywhere they roam. Monk reveals a lot of personal and even embarrassing Van Halen moments, but these stories come across as much more believable, not as cheap attempts to shock readers. RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL is gritty and entertaining; an enjoyable read whether you’re a Van Halen fan or not.
I’ve read numerous books that detail the typical debauchery and fame associated with rock and roll music. Whether they’re written by current/former members of a band or managers, the books usually follow the same set of rules: 1) the band is not what it once was 2) there are always tensions/troubles amongst the members and 3) drugs, alcohol and sex contribute largely to both 1) and 2). While every band is generally illustrated as being more decadent that others, the stories are all basically the same … the only difference being how believable the stories are and how well those stories are told. Van Halen’s story is neither shocking nor unique, but Noel Monk’s RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL serves an interesting and believable snapshot of Van Halen’s early days that is worth reading.
What I like best about RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL is that is captures the explosive and raw original lineup of Van Halen (brothers Alex and Eddie Van Halen, David Lee Roth and Michael Anthony) … not the milquetoast-era Van Halen with Sammy Hagar (sorry, Van Hagar is not the band I grew up listening to). Noel Monk, who became the band’s manager after serving as its tour manager, offers readers a fly-on-the wall perspective of those critical, decadent years (1978-1985) that made Van Halen a modern pillar of the rock and roll Parthenon.
Honestly, nothing that Noel Monk writes about Van Halen is really THAT outrageous or unbelievable. Right off the bat, he confirms what even casual Van Halen fans assumed about the band: the lead singer is an insecure prima-donna, the guitar wizard is in his own world, the drummer plays yes-man to his uber-talented brother and the quiet bass player stays in the shadows like a stow-a-way on a cruise ship. This eclectic group of individuals contributed to a chemical equation that was brilliant, yet fragile and combustible. Monk elaborates on what we already know … this incarnation of the band wasn’t meant to last. I found his storytelling both intriguing, entertaining and I every time I put the book down, I looked forward to picking it back up again to continue the journey. As stated previously, there really isn’t anything too shocking … I haven’t read a biopic of a famous rock band yet that wasn’t peppered with drugs and sex; Van Halen certainly had its fair share of both. I did find the rather “noobish” nature of the band members somewhat funny to read about. Edward Van Halen is portrayed as a cherubic kid all the way through book. Even though his musical virtuosity puts him in the same lofty status as Jimi Hendrix, the book conveys him as somewhat socially awkward and quite naive, even when courting his future wife, Valeri Bertinelli. The best parts of the book, though, are those with David Lee Roth. The “stud on stage” is, surprise, characterized as all bark and no bite … Monk accounts for numerous occasions where Roth’s mouth puts himself in embarrassing situations. Even though Monk calls Roth out for being less manly than his stage persona and a singer with limited ability, the author frequently affirms the spandex-clad Ken Doll as possessing the highest wattage in a 4-pack of dim bulbs. Business-savvy and artfully self-promoting, Monk asserts that no other singer was more suited to write and vocalize the lyrics that accompanied Eddie Van Halen’s trademark music style ... without the singer and the guitarist, Van Halen would not exist.
Aside from accounting the personal side of band members, Monk provides us with the hectic and thankless job of managing a headlining rock band. We get a healthy dose of managerial issues that rendered Monk as more of a firefighter … there were always fires needing to be extinguished. Whether it be tricking a major record label into ignoring a contract deadline to re-negotiate a better deal for the band, fighting counterfeit merchandise peddlers (literally and figuratively) or serving as the glue and tape that holds the band together … we get a clear idea of the pressure Monk experienced with Van Halen. What is shocking is how much the band needed him, yet for his entire tenure, Monk never received anything but a month-to-month contract.
The only issue I had with the book is guessing the rationale for writing the book. While not an overt hit-job on the band that unceremoniously dumped him, Monk presents himself as ultimately being victimized. There is a slight tone of saintliness throughout and Monk often uses “we” when referring to the band’s success on many levels; we never get any indication that he did anything wrong, so it’s easy to detect a slight whiff of sour grapes. This book was written shortly after the legal deadline allowing him write about the band had passed; one can assume different degrees of payback were motives in writing the book. Regardless, I still felt it was written in an honest and sincere manner. If anything, the book is openly empathetic to Van Halen’s bass player, Michael Anthony, who is duped and dumped-on by the other band members to this very day … probably the saddest and most pathetic aspect of Van Halen.
This is one of the better rock biographies I’ve read in a long time (and I’ve read quite a few). Most of these books try to portray bands as Vikings who rape and pillage everywhere they roam. Monk reveals a lot of personal and even embarrassing Van Halen moments, but these stories come across as much more believable, not as cheap attempts to shock readers. RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL is gritty and entertaining; an enjoyable read whether you’re a Van Halen fan or not.
June 4, 2024
I’m going with four, but I’m not sure why? I know that makes no sense. Van Halen was not one of my faves, but I know my brother liked them. But if every teenager who owned 1984 was a fan then it would have been most of the world’s population. I will say that the author/manager was gifted at popping in a little known fact here and there.
My heart broke over Edward’s storyline. It is truly an unfortunate, undeniable sad truth about him. I won’t say more just in case someone comes across these reviews and reads mine first allowing them the ability to stop before it’s too late. It does somewhat explain his marriage to Valerie B.
Also I have a new interest in Diamond Dave’s looks. He wasn’t hard to look at after all, but honestly, I did not consider VH one of the pretty boy hair bands. I even pulled up some VH on Spotify today and it is ridiculous how at least with me I can remember all of the verses to outdated songs, but not what happened at work. And my job is extremely repetitive. It must be love.
My heart broke over Edward’s storyline. It is truly an unfortunate, undeniable sad truth about him. I won’t say more just in case someone comes across these reviews and reads mine first allowing them the ability to stop before it’s too late. It does somewhat explain his marriage to Valerie B.
Also I have a new interest in Diamond Dave’s looks. He wasn’t hard to look at after all, but honestly, I did not consider VH one of the pretty boy hair bands. I even pulled up some VH on Spotify today and it is ridiculous how at least with me I can remember all of the verses to outdated songs, but not what happened at work. And my job is extremely repetitive. It must be love.
July 10, 2017
I'd give this 2.5 for the gossip factor. I'm not that interested in David Lee Roth but liked reading about Valerie and Eddie. This is more a book for a guy. The backstage sexual antics were crude and the endless drugging and drinking was monotonous and kinda sad. The guy who wrote this had an ax to grind and I don't mean a guitar. He was Van Halen's manager in their heyday and takes personal credit for a number of things including their first #1 single. I skimmed every time he went into a long winded digression about himself and his heroic sacrifices for the band. He had a co-writer but they needed an editor anyway. I feel kinda mean to say this but this book feels kinda mean.
March 5, 2018
A highly entertaining look back at the David Lee Roth era of Van Halen written by the band's former manager. While the book offers some hilarious and horrifying insight into why the band imploded during the highest point of their career I still couldn't help but feel like there where a few lingering questions as to why the manager seemed a little passive during some of the fights and bad decision making. And I would certainly love to hear the band's point of view on all this (though I know that will probably never happen).
July 8, 2017
A book that comes across as a vendetta and isn't all that interesting. Unless you a diehard fan, steer clear of wasting your time.
November 13, 2018
Tales of famous bad boy dickhead antics you've read variations of in a hundred other rock bios? Snore. Tales of a guy trying to manage these famous bad boy dickheads? Out-freakin'-standing!
July 29, 2025
This is one of the best books I’ve ever read about a rock band. Noel E. Monk was their manager from 1978 to 1985, and he paints a vivid and honest portrait of the band. He doesn’t come across as bitter or jaded. He’s just direct, reflective, and detailed when describing their pros and cons. David Lee Roth was aloof and narcissistic, but he also had a good eye for business and was a charismatic frontman. Eddie was a talented yet troubled guitarist. Michael Anthony was just happy to be there. Alex was manipulative and conniving.
I couldn’t put this book down, as each and every album came with its set of challenges and also its milestones within the band. It was funny, reflective, and self-aware. The stories of life on the road are not to be missed. He deserves sainthood for putting up with the band and their childlike ignorance. I absolutely loved this book, and I can’t recommend it enough, whether you were a fan of Van Halen or not. I became a big fan of the author after reading his unique and outside-the-box managerial techniques when it came to dealing with the many problems that existed within the band as well as with concert promoters and bootleggers.
I couldn’t put this book down, as each and every album came with its set of challenges and also its milestones within the band. It was funny, reflective, and self-aware. The stories of life on the road are not to be missed. He deserves sainthood for putting up with the band and their childlike ignorance. I absolutely loved this book, and I can’t recommend it enough, whether you were a fan of Van Halen or not. I became a big fan of the author after reading his unique and outside-the-box managerial techniques when it came to dealing with the many problems that existed within the band as well as with concert promoters and bootleggers.
July 15, 2018
Entertaining memoir from the former manager of Van Halen. This book covers the David Lee Roth era of the band, from 1978 through to 1985. Contains the usual quota of appalling behavior tales from life on the road from a hard drinkin', hard druggin', hard shaggin' hard rock band. And whilst this is a good read, it's also pretty sad, seeing a bunch of talented naive kids turn into a bunch of selfish, drug affected assholes. Their treatment of bassist Michael Anthony on the 1984 tour is just awful. Can't believe he stuck around for another 2 decades. Noel Monk was fired by the band in 1985, not long before singer David Lee Roth quit the band to pursue a career in self-parody. Monk goes the hack on the band a few times, but I think that time is a healer for the ex-manager. If this book came out in the late 80s it would have been way more ruthless. Ultimately i think he feels sorry for them. If you love the Van Halen you'll dig this. Can't believe he thinks 'Fair Warning' is a mediocre album. It's their best record, easily.
August 31, 2017
A great read for hardcore Diamond Dave-era VH nerds. It whet my appetite for Michael Anthony's life story, which I hope a ruthless agent is pestering him for RIGHT NOW.
January 26, 2024
Overall a fairly entertaining read, but author, Noel Monk (former manager of Van Halen) focuses a little too much on himself. While it is the story of the band from his perspective, he writes a lot about his personal stories and business. That’s understandable, but in a book with the tagline “a backstage pass to the wild times, loud rock, and down and dirty truth of Van Halen”, I was expecting less talk about business deals and anniversary dinners and more crazy stories of a the band (not that some weren’t mixed in as well) and a deeper looking into the music.
June 16, 2019
An enjoyable look behind the scenes with Van Halen in the early days, written by their primary manager in their rise to fame. There are the usual outrageous stories, but a lot more stuff about personalities and about the business side than is usual in such books. Definitely not a "tell-all" sort of book. Enjoyable.
July 12, 2017
Ah me! Nothing new here. Talented rock band falls prey to drugs, alcohol, excess, and ego. Sad. (Once again, my fault! What the heck was I expecting?). No surprise, either, that Alex is now a man of the cloth. I suppose he came to realize he was lucky to have survived.
October 25, 2020
Since Eddie's death we're hearing all sorts of stories about him. Not being a student of Van Halen (yes, I've read two other books, but don't ask my COVID-addled brain to recall the content), I was surprised to hear of the moments of generosity toward fans and especially the bullying he and Alex suffered in high school. One has to wonder how many of those people would tell their children and co-workers, "Yeah, I went to high school with Eddie, we were tight!" Backstage antics, like those recounted in Runnin' With the Devil, present a picture of the band I can understand. Author Monk served first as VH's tour manager, then manager, during the initial Roth era, and published his story in 2017 once a moratorium on telling his side of things expired. His book came to me as part of a group read done in tribute to Eddie.
As a tribute...well, it isn't. Runnin' is a raw history of Monk's involvement with Van Halen, peppered with a few confessional moments that might have led to litigation if secrets spilled earlier. Mostly, though, the book talks about nailing bootleg shirt vendors, how much the band liked alcohol and cocaine, and how Monk basically babysat a gaggle of badly behaving man-children. Most chapters end with an ominous prediction of the end, and in Monk's defense the band did him dirty. You read of Eddie's benevolence in giving his time to the Thriller album then in nearly the same breath cutting Michael Anthony out of the money, and I don't know what to say about his character. I imagine there was more going on behind the scenes, but the book doesn't reveal it.
I would have liked to read more about the band in the studio, and while Monk stresses most of the Roth-era albums were recorded in short time, that creative process is lost among tour stories, Roth's ego, and the brothers' drinking. There's entertainment value here, yes, but nothing I hadn't expected to read.
As a tribute...well, it isn't. Runnin' is a raw history of Monk's involvement with Van Halen, peppered with a few confessional moments that might have led to litigation if secrets spilled earlier. Mostly, though, the book talks about nailing bootleg shirt vendors, how much the band liked alcohol and cocaine, and how Monk basically babysat a gaggle of badly behaving man-children. Most chapters end with an ominous prediction of the end, and in Monk's defense the band did him dirty. You read of Eddie's benevolence in giving his time to the Thriller album then in nearly the same breath cutting Michael Anthony out of the money, and I don't know what to say about his character. I imagine there was more going on behind the scenes, but the book doesn't reveal it.
I would have liked to read more about the band in the studio, and while Monk stresses most of the Roth-era albums were recorded in short time, that creative process is lost among tour stories, Roth's ego, and the brothers' drinking. There's entertainment value here, yes, but nothing I hadn't expected to read.
July 21, 2017
Horrific- like chatting with a conductor who tells you his journey off the tracks and then over the cliff... later to explode on the rocks. I pity Van Halens old manager... or even new manager.
I hope Michael Anthony writes a book. Especially since he's still friends with Sammy Hagar. I sure hope he made enough money off the Van Halen boys to make it worth it.
Seems similar to Steve Vai having few comments about his days with David Lee Roth.
Everything you NEVER wanted to know about Van Halen. Nasty stuff! I suggest reading Sammy Hagar's book instead - much healthier. Although, if you really want to know how the music industry works... this will scare the crap out of you. Alex Van Halen will probably put a hit on his old manager for this tabloid insanity.
It is amusing that he said he signed a contract that prohibited him from telling this story for 30 years ---- yep, times up!
I hope Michael Anthony writes a book. Especially since he's still friends with Sammy Hagar. I sure hope he made enough money off the Van Halen boys to make it worth it.
Seems similar to Steve Vai having few comments about his days with David Lee Roth.
Everything you NEVER wanted to know about Van Halen. Nasty stuff! I suggest reading Sammy Hagar's book instead - much healthier. Although, if you really want to know how the music industry works... this will scare the crap out of you. Alex Van Halen will probably put a hit on his old manager for this tabloid insanity.
It is amusing that he said he signed a contract that prohibited him from telling this story for 30 years ---- yep, times up!
July 6, 2017
(2 1/2). This was not just another musical memoir for me, as I went to High School with the author. I didn't know him well, he was a quiet, self contained tough guy and staying out of his way was advisable. This book is really interesting for anyone who ever touched the music world, especially the concert end (I produced shows for about 5 years). Monk's first hand view, direction and now revelations of the career of Van Halen is terrific. The backstage look is great fun. It brought to mind that I had categorized the rock stars as almost always being victims to drugs, alcohol and sex. I now was made aware that I had left out one other major factor, ego. These guys self destructed like so many others, and though predictable, it seems a shame. This is a great tale and you certainly do grow to respect Noel Monk and his role as the pages turn. Well done.
August 26, 2017
This book was awesome. I like the music of Van Halen quite a bit, but would not consider myself a fanatic or disciple of Eddie Van Halen. I like both Van Halen and Van Hagar. This book really pulled the curtain back for me on what happened in Van Halen's early days and rise to superstardom, at least from one point of view.
I was surprised on who the "bad guy" was in the end. I was not surprised at the characterizations of some of the main characters. This was a good view into the inner sanctum of the band.
Even if you are not a HUGE fan of the band and just enjoy "Jump" on the radio, but still love a good book about rock n roll tales, this is a great book. Not a totally trashy story either. Sure, still plenty of sex, drugs and r'n'r, but plenty of substance to be taken seriously.
I was surprised on who the "bad guy" was in the end. I was not surprised at the characterizations of some of the main characters. This was a good view into the inner sanctum of the band.
Even if you are not a HUGE fan of the band and just enjoy "Jump" on the radio, but still love a good book about rock n roll tales, this is a great book. Not a totally trashy story either. Sure, still plenty of sex, drugs and r'n'r, but plenty of substance to be taken seriously.
July 5, 2025
Van Halen...they're *alright*. I mean, as a child of the Eighties, I grew up with them and know a lot of their songs (the hits, anyway), and I have a cousin who unironically loves them. But I never got beyond "Panama," or "Hot for Teacher," and while I like some of the Van Hagar stuff (but none of the Van Cherone era), I wouldn't have thought that a book about their early run to fame, from their ex-manager, would be up my alley.
"Runnin' With the Devil," by Noel Monk (with Joe Layden) is *exactly* my kind of book, however. Chock full of stories from the Diamond Dave era of VH, it's fun and gossipy as well as sobering and horrifying in equal turns. And it's impossible to put down once you start reading. Monk, who road-managed the Sex Pistols during their one tour of the States (in early 1978), was an insider in the music industry, at one of the powerhouse record labels at the time; when Warner Brothers signed David Lee Roth, the Van Halen brothers, and Michael Anthony, he went on the road with them and earned their trust. So when their first manager was fired, Monk got the job.
Cue the montage of Van Halen drinking and drugging their way across the globe for the next seven years.
Monk, who certainly has a perspective on the band that might offend diehard fans (he likes the guys in the band but has definite opinions about each, which is understandable when you get to the part where he's fired), tells his story with a gift for knowing what will sell books as well as set tongues wagging. I would expect some in the Van Halen camp to take issue with some of his assertions, but damn if the book isn't entertaining from start to finish. Even non-fans or casual fans will find the story of Roth's ego helping to sabotage a potentially lucrative endorsement deal fascinating, and the stories of each band member courting groupies and dealers to cater to their whims are hilarious at times (while brutal at others). The point is, Van Halen was a rock band with a huge amount of success to deal with, and they did so by living it up like the rock gods that they were. Every party has to come to an end, however, and Monk was there when the boys came crashing back down to earth. He was kicked out, and a few months later David Lee Roth was exiled as well, while Van Halen continued for a couple of decades. The death of Eddie Van Halen, the guitar god of his generation, put a definitive end to the group. Now all we have are the records, the videos, and the stories from insiders like Monk.
In terms of entertainment, "Runnin' With the Devil" is as loud as "Jump" and as fun as VH's cover of "Oh! Pretty Woman." Noel Monk is a gifted storyteller, and the yarns he spins are made for compulsive reading. I do wonder if the sting of his dismissal forty years ago has fueled some of the content here, but I take him at face value as an honest enough witness. "Runnin' With the Devil," to paraphrase Diamond Dave, will melt any other rock-music books you have on your bookshelves, and it might melt your face too. It's a ton of fun.
"Runnin' With the Devil," by Noel Monk (with Joe Layden) is *exactly* my kind of book, however. Chock full of stories from the Diamond Dave era of VH, it's fun and gossipy as well as sobering and horrifying in equal turns. And it's impossible to put down once you start reading. Monk, who road-managed the Sex Pistols during their one tour of the States (in early 1978), was an insider in the music industry, at one of the powerhouse record labels at the time; when Warner Brothers signed David Lee Roth, the Van Halen brothers, and Michael Anthony, he went on the road with them and earned their trust. So when their first manager was fired, Monk got the job.
Cue the montage of Van Halen drinking and drugging their way across the globe for the next seven years.
Monk, who certainly has a perspective on the band that might offend diehard fans (he likes the guys in the band but has definite opinions about each, which is understandable when you get to the part where he's fired), tells his story with a gift for knowing what will sell books as well as set tongues wagging. I would expect some in the Van Halen camp to take issue with some of his assertions, but damn if the book isn't entertaining from start to finish. Even non-fans or casual fans will find the story of Roth's ego helping to sabotage a potentially lucrative endorsement deal fascinating, and the stories of each band member courting groupies and dealers to cater to their whims are hilarious at times (while brutal at others). The point is, Van Halen was a rock band with a huge amount of success to deal with, and they did so by living it up like the rock gods that they were. Every party has to come to an end, however, and Monk was there when the boys came crashing back down to earth. He was kicked out, and a few months later David Lee Roth was exiled as well, while Van Halen continued for a couple of decades. The death of Eddie Van Halen, the guitar god of his generation, put a definitive end to the group. Now all we have are the records, the videos, and the stories from insiders like Monk.
In terms of entertainment, "Runnin' With the Devil" is as loud as "Jump" and as fun as VH's cover of "Oh! Pretty Woman." Noel Monk is a gifted storyteller, and the yarns he spins are made for compulsive reading. I do wonder if the sting of his dismissal forty years ago has fueled some of the content here, but I take him at face value as an honest enough witness. "Runnin' With the Devil," to paraphrase Diamond Dave, will melt any other rock-music books you have on your bookshelves, and it might melt your face too. It's a ton of fun.
June 14, 2021
Most characters in a story have a redemption arc. Tragically, that can't be said for Noel Monk's account of Roth-era Van Halen.
What starts as a beautiful origin story about a super-talented band briefly evolves into a success story, but then just as quickly devolves into a sordid narrative of betrayal, frustration, depression, and severe drug and alcohol abuse that makes you simultaneously feel sadness and contempt for the members of the band.
Except for Michael. No one could ever hate Michael.
Seriously though, this painted my impressions of Van Halen a slightly darker color, and like Monk towards the end of his tale, I feel like removing them from heavy rotation on my Spotify playlists. At least for a little while.
Maybe some Van Hagar as a palate cleanser...
At any rate, it's an easily readable page-turner and contains a wealth of "inside baseball" stories (some that are delightful, more that are downright revolting) proving the rock star touring life isn't as glorious as you think. Neither are the rock stars themselves.
What starts as a beautiful origin story about a super-talented band briefly evolves into a success story, but then just as quickly devolves into a sordid narrative of betrayal, frustration, depression, and severe drug and alcohol abuse that makes you simultaneously feel sadness and contempt for the members of the band.
Except for Michael. No one could ever hate Michael.
Seriously though, this painted my impressions of Van Halen a slightly darker color, and like Monk towards the end of his tale, I feel like removing them from heavy rotation on my Spotify playlists. At least for a little while.
Maybe some Van Hagar as a palate cleanser...
At any rate, it's an easily readable page-turner and contains a wealth of "inside baseball" stories (some that are delightful, more that are downright revolting) proving the rock star touring life isn't as glorious as you think. Neither are the rock stars themselves.
April 28, 2025
This book is an easy read and probably the only chance a fan will get to have a window into the rise of the original Van Halen starting with their touring days up to their ultimate collapse.
I believe Noel when he talks about David Lee Roth and Edward Van Halen having massive egos. I wonder, however, if he sees his own ego is pretty big too. I don't mean that as a knock on him. To do his job and deal with the personalities he had to deal with he would need that, but I wonder if he sees it.
Finding out how the band ultimately demoted Michael Anthony from partner to employee was disappointing, but not surprising, and clarifies why he was treated the way he was.
No one in the band comes out looking too good in this story, except for Michael Anthony. Ed and Dave are ego maniacs, Alex is drunk and vindictive... nothing to new there, but this book fills in the gaps in the Van Halen story and finally tells a believable version of why the original Van Halen fell apart at the height of their popularity
I believe Noel when he talks about David Lee Roth and Edward Van Halen having massive egos. I wonder, however, if he sees his own ego is pretty big too. I don't mean that as a knock on him. To do his job and deal with the personalities he had to deal with he would need that, but I wonder if he sees it.
Finding out how the band ultimately demoted Michael Anthony from partner to employee was disappointing, but not surprising, and clarifies why he was treated the way he was.
No one in the band comes out looking too good in this story, except for Michael Anthony. Ed and Dave are ego maniacs, Alex is drunk and vindictive... nothing to new there, but this book fills in the gaps in the Van Halen story and finally tells a believable version of why the original Van Halen fell apart at the height of their popularity
December 15, 2020
A book covering VH’s early rise by their main manager.
A mustvread for any fan of early Van Halen.
Included is what you would expect. There seems to be so much exploitation in the music biz, especially as more musical groups were able to generate sizeable revenue.
I’d like to see the P&L group statements for record companies and compare them to the band’s. Based on effort and return it the lion’s share never goes to the talent.
Enter Mr. Monk. He finessed to get the band a better contract (in a stealthy way) and set up merchandising in a way for the band to profit more instead of hired companies or bootleggers.
Despite the overall management and fathering he gave the band, in the end he was used as a wedge to make a break with Dave, fueled by the paranoid drummer most likely swayed by his brother in-law that VH was getting stiffed by their manager.
Monk worked for six years without a long-term contract. He was monthly, but waited too late to ask for one and got the boot.
People are drawn to be part or something, even at the cost of losing, which in ways Mr. Monk did - he was loyal and served. DLR hitched himself to EVH because he knew he could achieve more (for himself) that way. As a narcissist he was deluded he was the attraction and left the group. MA was happy just to play and be associated with the band. Known as the nice guy, he also was downgraded, and then ultimately booted.
A mustvread for any fan of early Van Halen.
Included is what you would expect. There seems to be so much exploitation in the music biz, especially as more musical groups were able to generate sizeable revenue.
I’d like to see the P&L group statements for record companies and compare them to the band’s. Based on effort and return it the lion’s share never goes to the talent.
Enter Mr. Monk. He finessed to get the band a better contract (in a stealthy way) and set up merchandising in a way for the band to profit more instead of hired companies or bootleggers.
Despite the overall management and fathering he gave the band, in the end he was used as a wedge to make a break with Dave, fueled by the paranoid drummer most likely swayed by his brother in-law that VH was getting stiffed by their manager.
Monk worked for six years without a long-term contract. He was monthly, but waited too late to ask for one and got the boot.
People are drawn to be part or something, even at the cost of losing, which in ways Mr. Monk did - he was loyal and served. DLR hitched himself to EVH because he knew he could achieve more (for himself) that way. As a narcissist he was deluded he was the attraction and left the group. MA was happy just to play and be associated with the band. Known as the nice guy, he also was downgraded, and then ultimately booted.
October 23, 2023
Runnin' with the Devil delves deep into the chaotic world of Van Halen, one of rock music's most iconic bands. Written by their one-time manager, the book is an enthralling exposé that reveals the band's rise to fame and its descent into internal squabbles and rampant hedonism.
Monk provides a candid account of debauchery, ego clashes, and ground-breaking musical genius. Having served as the band's confidante, road manager, and ultimate fixer, he was uniquely positioned to chronicle the highs and lows that came with being part of this legendary outfit.
From their humble beginnings playing gigs in smoky California bars to selling out arenas worldwide, the book navigates the heady days of success, laden with booze, women, and an almost reckless abandon.
Yet it's not all about sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll; Monk delves into the intricate relationships between the band members, their vulnerabilities and their vanities. Particularly fascinating is the relationship between the virtuosic guitarist Eddie Van Halen and charismatic frontman David Lee Roth, whose conflicting personalities both propelled and hindered the band's success.
Monk also exposes the behind-the-scenes machinations that were as complicated as any of the band's infamous guitar solos. He delves into the complexities of contract wrangles, the relentless grind of touring, and the challenges of keeping the band together amidst rising tensions. His narrative captures the urgency and excitement of Van Halen's music while also shedding light on the inevitable toll such a high-octane lifestyle exacts on relationships and personal health.
Gripping, shocking, yet oddly endearing, it's an invaluable glimpse into the madness and magic that defined an era.
Monk provides a candid account of debauchery, ego clashes, and ground-breaking musical genius. Having served as the band's confidante, road manager, and ultimate fixer, he was uniquely positioned to chronicle the highs and lows that came with being part of this legendary outfit.
From their humble beginnings playing gigs in smoky California bars to selling out arenas worldwide, the book navigates the heady days of success, laden with booze, women, and an almost reckless abandon.
Yet it's not all about sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll; Monk delves into the intricate relationships between the band members, their vulnerabilities and their vanities. Particularly fascinating is the relationship between the virtuosic guitarist Eddie Van Halen and charismatic frontman David Lee Roth, whose conflicting personalities both propelled and hindered the band's success.
Monk also exposes the behind-the-scenes machinations that were as complicated as any of the band's infamous guitar solos. He delves into the complexities of contract wrangles, the relentless grind of touring, and the challenges of keeping the band together amidst rising tensions. His narrative captures the urgency and excitement of Van Halen's music while also shedding light on the inevitable toll such a high-octane lifestyle exacts on relationships and personal health.
Gripping, shocking, yet oddly endearing, it's an invaluable glimpse into the madness and magic that defined an era.
July 7, 2017
I think I enjoyed the overall book from an industry standard. But overall it didn't really shed any light on Van Halen for me. I did find the story about Steve Perry amusing. But it mostly reads like your typical "sex, drugs and rock and roll" book with enormous egos. Some of it might be true and some of it might be a stretch. The Micheal Anthony thing in 1984 seems very unlikely to draw up contract mid tour that would stand up in the court of law. Of course I agreed with him that they were a different band once Sammy Hagar came on the scene. I also agree with him while successful that the original lineup left a lot on the table. Overall I'd give it 3/5. To me Van Halen Rising is still the standard for Van Halen books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2023
A very entertaining read about a band that lived very fast and were legendary in their time. Noel Monk helped manage them through the entire DLR era. He has terrific anecdotes and stories throughout the whole time.
Alex Van Halen comes out looking like a scumbag for what he did to Michael Anthony and Noel. Worth the price of admissions for the David Lee Roth stories alone but a great chronological retelling of the story.
Typically I trust managers more even if they were fired, they have a much more objective, 10,000 ft view of the time vs. the band.
If you like DLR-era Van Halen, a must read.
Alex Van Halen comes out looking like a scumbag for what he did to Michael Anthony and Noel. Worth the price of admissions for the David Lee Roth stories alone but a great chronological retelling of the story.
Typically I trust managers more even if they were fired, they have a much more objective, 10,000 ft view of the time vs. the band.
If you like DLR-era Van Halen, a must read.
September 11, 2018
Escrito por el que fue su manager durante la primera época del grupo con David Lee Roth, este libro describe los entresijos de Van Halen del 78 al 85. No es un libro sobre la música del grupo, sino sobre el funcionamiento del mismo y los caracteres de sus cuatro integrantes. Ciertamente no salen muy bien parados y el lema de "sexo, drogas y rocanrol" aparece por todas partes. Cuenta cosas muy interesantes sobre el negocio del rock y, por alguna razón, parece muy veraz.
February 18, 2018
A fun read about life - mostly on the road - with Van Halen from 1978 to 1985, as recounted by manager Noel Monk. If you like the band, you’ll enjoy the book. If not, don’t bother with it. Interesting details are shared about the business side of the group’s career, too, such as how a bad contract with Warner Brothers evolved into a much more lucrative agreement, scrapping with merchandise counterfeiters in arena parking lots, and handling paternity suit concerns.
November 25, 2021
It's funny to think I was in Catholic grade school while Van Halen was taking the world by storm and engaging in stereotypical rock star lifestyles. This book doesn't offer much insight into their music, instead opting for anecdotes that really just make everyone except Michael Anthony look bad. I guess you have to focus on the good music, minus the poppier tunes that I don't care for.
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