When Van Halen last hit Vegas for a pair of shows in December, the group’s legendary guitarist was not doing too well. On the first night, despite his health history, Eddie Van Halen kept a cigarette affixed to his axe for easy access. Even more disconcertingly, fans noticed the guitarist was wobbly on his feet and took at least one embarrassing stumble during the concert.

Then last month Van Halen had to reschedule some shows so their rehabbed cancer survivor guitarist could undergo undisclosed medical tests. But the band made its triumphant return in Las Vegas on Saturday night, headlining Tiger Woods’ Tiger Jam, the golf icon’s annual charity concert. The veteran band was not taking anything for granted, either: a few hours before the show the band worked repeatedly sound checking “Hot for Teacher.”

“We are here to listen to one of the greatest bands in history,” Tiger Woods, the greatest golfer in history, announced to the audience. “It is my honor to introduce you to Van Halen.” There was no stumbling this time around. (more…)

The Van Halen reunion tour has not been canceled, but several dates, including tonight’s show in Dallas, have been postponed while Eddie Van Halen undergoes medical tests. According to a statement from the band’s management, the guitarist “is undergoing a battery of comprehensive medical tests to determine a defined diagnosis and recommended medical procedures.” Eddie Van Halen has battled cancer and substance abuse problems in recent years, however other details were provided. Tonight’s scheduled show in Dallas has been postponed to April 24th, while the following shows have been rescheduled: Cincinnati (March 5th to April 22nd), Raleigh, NC (March 7th to April 15th) and Baltimore (March 9th to April 15th). The band’s concert in Charlottesville, VA, on March 11th is still scheduled to take place on that day. Earlier today, we reported on rumors (which remain unconfirmed) that the entire tour had been scrapped. Stick with Rock Daily for updates on this story.

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