David Lee Roth – Crazy From The Heat 4-Track 12" Vinyl LP Album

- The flamboyant 1985 solo leap that turned nostalgia into neon spectacle

Album Front Cover Photo of David Lee Roth – Crazy From The Heat Visit: https://vinyl-records.nl/

David Lee Roth’s “Crazy From the Heat” wasn’t just a solo debut — it was a flamboyant cannonball into pop culture’s deep end. Recorded in 1985 between Van Halen explosions, the EP drips with self-parody and studio gloss. Roth croons through vintage covers like “California Girls” and “Just a Gigolo” with Vegas-sized irony, backed by session aces who turn nostalgia into neon spectacle. It’s playful, ridiculous, and meticulously produced — a four-track sunburn of ego, humor, and the unmistakable sound of a man enjoying his own myth.

Table of Contents

"Crazy From The Heat" Album Description:

In the world of rock history, certain albums stand out not just for their music, but for the sheer audacity and creativity that they bring to the forefront. One such masterpiece is David Lee Roth's "Crazy From the Heat", a 4-track 12" vinyl LP album that marked Roth's explosive debut as a solo artist in 1985. A bold departure from his iconic role as the flamboyant frontman of Van Halen, this EP solidified Roth's status as a musical force to be reckoned with, showcasing his distinctive vocal prowess and the raw energy that defined an era.

A Daring Leap into Solo Stardom

Released while still an integral part of Van Halen, "Crazy From the Heat" was an unexpected and captivating foray into the realm of solo artistry. In this EP, Roth ventured into uncharted territory, delivering his own unique interpretations of classic hits. The four tracks were not only a tribute to the musical influences that shaped him but also a testament to his versatility as a performer.

The Creative Ensemble Behind the EP

Helming the production of "Crazy From the Heat" was the seasoned Ted Templeman, a figure known for his work with Van Halen and other legendary rock acts. The EP was expertly engineered by Jeff Hendrickson, who captured the vibrant energy and sonic nuances that defined Roth's performance.

Roth's unparalleled vocals were complemented by a talented ensemble of musicians. Eddie Martinez and Sid McGinnis on guitars, Willie Weeks on bass guitar, and John Robinson on drums formed the backbone of the EP's infectious sound. Sammy Figueroa added his rhythmic finesse to the mix, while Edgar Winter and Brian Mann enriched the tracks with their keyboard wizardry.

A Track-by-Track Musical Odyssey

"Easy Street" kicks off the EP, setting the tone with its rhythmic hooks and Roth's signature vocal flair. The EP takes a turn into classic territory with the mesmerizing medley of "Just a Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody". Roth's rendition adds a fresh twist to these timeless tunes, infusing them with an irresistible rock edge.

One of the highlights of the album, "California Girls", showcases Roth's interpretation of the iconic Beach Boys hit. His version soared to #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to the EP's mainstream appeal. The harmonious backing vocals provided by Carl Wilson and Christopher Cross elevate the track to new heights.

Closing the album is "Coconut Grove", a laid-back groove that showcases Roth's ability to captivate listeners with his emotive delivery. This track serves as a perfect bookend, encapsulating the eclectic mix of styles that define "Crazy From the Heat".

A Lasting Legacy

"Crazy From the Heat" wasn't just an EP; it was a declaration of artistic independence and a testament to David Lee Roth's boundless creativity. As a solo debut, it left an indelible mark on the music scene, solidifying Roth's status as an influential figure in rock history. His ability to breathe new life into classics and make them his own showcased his exceptional talent and set the stage for his subsequent solo ventures.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

American Hard Rock / Prog Rock

A flamboyant cross between theatrical hard rock and slick progressive arrangements — flashy yet disciplined, driven by David Lee Roth’s charisma and studio polish from Warner Bros. mid-’80s production.

Collector Notes / Liner Notes
  • 1: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs, and a photo of David Lee Roth.
Label & Catalognr:

Warner Bros. Records – Cat#: 925 222 (92522)

Album Packaging

Standard sleeve with a full-color inner sleeve featuring lyrics and photos.

Includes printed insert — no gatefold design.

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP – Gramophone Record
Total Weight: 200 g

Year & Country:

1985 – Made in Germany

Producers:
  • Ted Templeman – Producer
    Ted Templeman, renowned for shaping the sound of Van Halen, Doobie Brothers, and Montrose, brought his trademark high-gloss yet live-sounding production to Roth’s solo debut — keeping it tight, bright, and radio-ready.
Sound & Recording Engineers:
  • Jeff Hendrickson – Sound Engineer
    Hendrickson’s crisp engineering style, developed at New York’s Power Station, helped deliver the punchy clarity that defined many 1980s American rock records.
  • Mark Linett – Additional Engineering
  • Garry Rindfuss – Assistant Engineer
  • Tom Fouce – Assistant Engineer
Production Coordination:

Joan Parker

Parker frequently coordinated West Coast projects for Warner Bros., ensuring smooth logistics between multiple studios during the mid-1980s rock boom.

Recording Location:

The Power Station – New York, USA
Lion Share Recording Studio – Los Angeles, USA
Additional recording at Amigo Studios, North Hollywood, USA

Mastering Engineer & Location:
  • Howie Weinberg – Mastering Engineer at Masterdisk, New York
    Weinberg mastered countless rock classics of the 1980s, from Def Leppard to The Ramones, known for his precise equalization and explosive volume balance.
Management:

Noel E. Monk

Former Van Halen manager, Monk successfully guided Roth’s early solo career, applying arena-level showmanship and global marketing savvy.

Album Cover Design & Artwork:
  • Vigon Seireeni – Art Direction
    Finnish-born designer known for bold typographic layouts and cinematic photo integration on 1980s rock sleeves.
  • Pete Angelus – Art Direction
    Angelus, a creative collaborator with Van Halen, helped craft Roth’s flamboyant visual identity — merging humor and high gloss into a single frame.
Photography:
  • Chris Simpson – Cover Photography (Location: The Seychelles)
    Simpson’s tropical imagery gave the album its sun-drenched, escapist tone that perfectly matched Roth’s larger-than-life persona.
  • Kazuyoshi Miyoshi – Cover Photography (Location: The Seychelles)
  • Raul Vega – Inner-sleeve Photography
Special Thanks:

Ed Anderson, Larry Hostler, Gail Liss, Karen Valdez, Steven Mandel, Pete Angelus, Warner Bros. Records, Premier Talent and WEA Worldwide.

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up:
  • David Lee Roth – Vocals
    Charismatic frontman and founding vocalist of Van Halen, Roth became one of rock’s most flamboyant showmen. His solo career launched with “Crazy From The Heat,” proving he could thrive beyond the band’s success.
  • Eddie Martinez – Guitars
    Versatile session guitarist known for his fiery solos on albums by Robert Palmer and Run-D.M.C. His precise, rhythmic tone brought pop polish to Roth’s energetic covers.
  • Sid McGinnis – Guitars
    A veteran session player and longtime guitarist for the “Late Show with David Letterman” band, McGinnis’ smooth professionalism added finesse to countless classic rock recordings.
  • Willie Weeks – Bass Guitar
    Highly respected bassist whose soulful groove has powered records by Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and Stevie Wonder. His deep pocket playing anchors the EP’s slick rhythm section.
  • John Robinson – Drums
    Known as “JR,” Robinson is one of the most recorded drummers in pop history, featured on hits by Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Quincy Jones. His precision keeps Roth’s covers tight and radio-ready.
  • Sammy Figueroa – Percussion / Drums
    Sammy Figueroa is a world-renowned percussionist celebrated for his dynamic stage presence and versatility across genres, from jazz and salsa to rock and pop. Known for his masterful conga playing, he has collaborated with legendary artists including David Bowie, Miles Davis, and Mariah Carey.
  • Edgar Winter – Keyboards
    Edgar Winter, the multi-instrumental prodigy and younger brother of Johnny Winter, first joined Johnny’s band in the late 1960s, adding soulful saxophone and keyboard brilliance to the group’s fiery blues sound. In later years, he often returned as a special guest, rekindling their legendary musical chemistry. Learn more about Edgar Winter.
  • Brian Mann – Keyboards
    A gifted keyboardist known for his melodic phrasing and work with Larry Carlton and Kenny Loggins, bringing smooth jazz textures to Roth’s pop-rock palette.
  • Carl Wilson – Backing Vocals (on “California Girls”)
    Founding member of The Beach Boys, Carl’s harmonies defined California pop. His guest vocals here add authentic sunshine to Roth’s cover of the Beach Boys’ classic.
  • Christopher Cross – Backing Vocals (on “California Girls”)
    Grammy-winning singer-songwriter best known for “Sailing” and “Ride Like the Wind.” His smooth tenor blends seamlessly into the lush vocal arrangement of Roth’s chart-topping cover.

Additional Credits:

Carl Wilson appears courtesy of Caribou / CBS Records.

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Easy Street (Hartman) (3:45) Single
    Released as a single, this track blends smooth R&B phrasing with Roth’s unmistakable swagger.
  2. Medley: Just a Gigolo / I Ain’t Got Nobody (Caesar, Casucci, Graham, Williams) (4:39) Cover
    A playful cover medley of 1920s–1930s standards, reinvented with synths, horns, and big-band humor that defined Roth’s solo style.
Video: David Lee Roth - Just A Gigolo / I Ain't Got Nobody (Official Video) [HD]
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. California Girls (Mike Love, Brian Wilson) (2:50) Cover Guest
    Cover of The Beach Boys classic, featuring guest backing vocals by Carl Wilson and Christopher Cross. This became Roth’s most successful solo single.
  2. Coconut Grove (Sebastian, Yanovsky) (2:52) Cover
    Gentle reinterpretation of The Lovin’ Spoonful song, showcasing Roth’s softer vocal phrasing and jazzy undertones.
Video: David Lee Roth - California Girls (Official Video) [HD]
Album Front Cover Photo
Front cover of David Lee Roth’s 1985 EP Crazy From The Heat. The image shows Roth waist-deep in clear turquoise tropical water, sunlight dancing on the surface. He wears red reflective sunglasses and a white scarf draped loosely over his bare shoulders, striking a flamboyant pose with a raised hand as if greeting the sun. Behind him, a strip of golden sand curves under a deep blue sky with scattered clouds, evoking both freedom and rock-star excess.

The album’s front cover shows David Lee Roth standing waist-deep in transparent turquoise water beneath a rich, cloud-dotted sky. Every ripple of sunlight plays across the ocean’s surface, framing him in a shimmer of tropical blue and white.

Roth is bare-chested, wearing only a flowing white scarf over his shoulders and mirrored red sunglasses that reflect the blinding daylight. His platinum-blond hair, tousled by sea breeze, catches the sunlight as he strikes a confident pose with one hand lifted in mid-gesture, part salute, part performance.

In the background, a thin golden shoreline stretches into the distance, completing the surreal, cinematic setting. The bold yellow handwritten-style text “David Lee Roth” dominates the upper left corner, while the album title Crazy From The Heat appears scrawled in white script near the bottom. It’s a portrait of self-aware spectacle — equal parts rock star, comedian, and sun-worshipping icon.

Album Back Cover Photo
Back cover of David Lee Roth’s 1985 EP Crazy From The Heat. The photo shows a luminous turquoise sea lapping against a pale sand beach, with the handwritten yellow track titles Easy Street, Just a Gigolo, California Girls, and Coconut Grove splashed diagonally across the surface like graffiti. A silver 'Promotional Copy – Not For Sale' stamp sits near the center, while production credits for Ted Templeman and Jeff Hendrickson appear below alongside the Warner Bros. logo and catalog code 925 222-1.

The back cover of Crazy From The Heat extends the tropical fantasy of the front, featuring an ocean-blue backdrop fading gently into a strip of white sand beneath a dark horizon of palm shadows. The design balances calm and chaos — serenity of setting versus the wild scrawl of Roth’s neon-yellow handwriting.

Each track title — Easy Street, Just a Gigolo, California Girls, and Coconut Grove — appears in a spontaneous, paint-splattered script, capturing the performer’s playful excess. A round silver “Promotional Copy – Not For Sale” stamp marks this particular edition, hinting at its rarity among collectors.

At the bottom, the credits read “Produced by Ted Templeman” and “Engineered by Jeff Hendrickson,” with the Warner Bros. logo and German catalog number 925 222-1 printed in small type. The visual composition mirrors Roth’s sound — glossy, sun-drenched, and unapologetically larger than life.

First Photo of Custom Inner Sleeve
Monochrome inner sleeve portrait of David Lee Roth from the 1985 EP Crazy From The Heat. The close-up photograph shows Roth’s face in dramatic studio lighting, half illuminated and half shadowed, emphasizing his sharp cheekbones and intense gaze. His expression is calm yet calculating, lips slightly parted, and a small hoop earring visible in his left ear. The stylized signature 'David Lee Roth' appears in the lower left corner, completing this striking, high-contrast image that reflects both his charisma and theatrical self-awareness.

This full-page black-and-white inner sleeve portrait captures David Lee Roth in a moment of striking intensity. His face is dramatically lit from one side, leaving the opposite half in deep shadow — a visual metaphor for the duality of his public persona: part showman, part introspective artist.

Roth’s gaze is fixed and direct, framed by soft studio lighting that highlights the curve of his jaw and the precision of his stage-ready features. A subtle earring glints at his left ear, while the faint texture of film grain lends the portrait a cinematic depth.

In the lower-left corner, his stylized autograph — “David Lee Roth” — punctuates the image with a personal signature, turning this inner sleeve into both a visual statement and a self-portrait of ambition during his rise as a solo icon in 1985.

Second Photo of Custom Inner Sleeve
Reverse side of the inner sleeve from David Lee Roth’s 1985 EP Crazy From The Heat. The design features a vivid sky-blue background with large handwritten black track titles — Easy Street, Just a Gigolo, California Girls, and Coconut Grove — splattered across the surface in energetic brush lettering. Liner credits for musicians including Edgar Winter, Eddie Martinez, Willie Weeks, Sid McGinnis, John Robinson, Sammy Figueroa, Carl Wilson, and Christopher Cross appear neatly aligned beneath each song title, while a small thank-you note to Edgar Winter is printed near the center. The Warner Bros. catalog code 925 222-1 and copyright of 1985 Diamond Dave Enterprises, Inc. complete the design.

The inner sleeve’s reverse side explodes in electric blue, its surface dominated by sweeping handwritten track titles in glossy black ink — Easy Street, Just a Gigolo, California Girls, and Coconut Grove. Each title bursts with personality, as if painted mid-motion across the vibrant backdrop.

Beneath each song name, fine print lists the performing musicians: Edgar Winter on keyboards and saxophones, Eddie Martinez and Sid McGinnis on guitars, Willie Weeks on bass, Brian Mann on synthesizer, John Robinson on drums, and Sammy Figueroa on percussion. The inclusion of Carl Wilson and Christopher Cross for backing vocals on California Girls adds a layer of star-studded charm.

A short printed note — “A very special thanks to Edgar Winter for all of his help and inspiration” — adds a personal touch amid the design’s free-spirited chaos. The Warner Bros. catalog number and 1985 copyright are neatly printed along the edges, closing the layout with a mix of precision and exuberance typical of Roth’s visual world.

Close up of Side One record’s label
Close-up photo of Side One record label for David Lee Roth – Crazy From The Heat, showing Warner Bros. Records 925 222-1, boxed GEMA/BIEM, LC 0392 logo, and classic shield design.

The label for Crazy From The Heat Side One is the clean silver-gray German Warner Bros. Records design used in mid-1980s pressings. Centered at the top is the multicolor Warner Bros. shield logo — a stylized gold “WB” monogram over a blue banner and gradient shield, symbolizing the label’s legacy of prestige and quality.

The typography is tightly aligned and minimalistic: artist and album title printed in bold uppercase, followed by track listing and songwriter credits in fine sans-serif type. The boxed GEMA/BIEM rights notice and label code LC 0392 confirm its European distribution rights, while catalog number 925 222-1 identifies this specific 12" vinyl edition.

The outer rim text, printed in both German and French, details copyright restrictions — typical of pressings by WEA Musik GmbH for the German market. The pale metallic finish and uncluttered symmetry make this a textbook example of Warner Bros.’ precision manufacturing during the 1980s.

Warner Bros Germany Label
Colours
Silver-gray background with black text and full-color Warner Bros. shield logo.
Design & Layout
Centered typographic layout with clear sans-serif fonts and track information divided by indentation.
Record company logo
Warner Bros. shield — gold “WB” monogram within a stylized crest, over a blue ribbon reading “RECORDS”. A visual hallmark of the company’s corporate identity and symbol of quality assurance.
Band/Performer logo
No separate artist logo; only standard printed text “DAVID LEE ROTH”.
Unique features
Boxed GEMA/BIEM rights box; LC 0392 label code; pressed-in catalog number “925 222-1”; two language rim text.
Side designation
Clearly marked “SIDE ONE” on the right-hand side.
Rights society
GEMA / BIEM
Catalogue number
925 222-1
Rim text language
German and French
Track list layout
Three tracks listed vertically, with composer credits in parentheses and production details below.
Rights info placement
Perimeter text around the outer edge of the label.
Pressing info
Pressed in Germany by WEA Musik GmbH for Warner Bros. Records.
Background image
Subtle watermark of the Warner Bros. shield repeated in faint relief behind text.

Index of DAVID LEE ROTH Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

DAVID LEE ROTH - California Girls 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
DAVID LEE ROTH - California Girls album front cover vinyl record

The song, originally a laid-back ode to sun-kissed Californian women, was transformed by Roth into a high-octane rock anthem. This audacious reinterpretation sparked both praise and controversy, with purists criticizing the alteration of a beloved classic.

Learn more
Updated DAVID LEE ROTH - Crazy From The Heat album front cover vinyl LP album https://vinyl-records.nl
DAVID LEE ROTH - Crazy From The Heat

“Crazy From The Heat” gleams like California chrome — slick, funny, and impossible to ignore. Roth dives headfirst into old-school covers, splashing through pop history with ego and sunshine. It’s 1985 bottled in Technicolor: brash, loud, a little ridiculous, and completely irresistible on a clean German pressing.

DAVID LEE ROTH - Eat 'em and Smile 12" Vinyl LP
DAVID LEE ROTH - Eat 'em and Smile album front cover vinyl record

"Eat 'Em and Smile" is a high-energy album brimming with catchy hooks, infectious grooves, and Roth's trademark swagger. Standout tracks include the anthemic "Yankee Rose," the bluesy "Tobacco Road," and the hard-hitting "Goin' Crazy!"

Learn more
DAVID LEE ROTH - Skyscraper 12" Vinyl LP
DAVID LEE ROTH - Skyscraper album front cover vinyl record

The album, released amidst a backdrop of evolving musical trends and shifting tastes, showcased Roth's willingness to take risks and push boundaries. While "Skyscraper" retained elements of his signature rock 'n' roll swagger, it also incorporated funk, pop, and even hints of world music.

Learn more