Cali Students Ready to Play Chicken

Most high school kids' parents were in high school themselves when the guys behind Chickenfoot first became famous. Still, this new band of rock vets -- featuring Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, Michael Anthony (Van Halen) and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) -- made a new name for themselves with their bestselling eponymous debut, and they're now ready to meet their next generation of fans. That will happen this Sunday at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Los Angeles.

As part of the Grammy SoundChecks program, 50 L.A. area students from South El Monte High School and local Grammy USM members will attend the band's rehearsal at the venue on Sunday afternoon. This will be followed by a candid Q&A session and interaction with the band in which the students can learn more about the artists, the music business and any other questions they might have. While I'd like to ask their thoughts on Eddie Van Halen and his bass-playing son Wolfgang, I'm guessing the kids' dads will have them busy getting lots of old Van Halen gear signed.

According to the Grammy Foundation, the goal of these events is to "engage students in conversation with the artists and their touring staff about the specifics of their careers and the necessary preparation for success." Past participating artists have included Mariah Carey, Coldplay, the Dave Matthews Band, Destiny's Child, Billy Joel, Jack Johnson, Juanes, John Mayer, No Doubt, Bonnie Raitt, U2 and Kanye "I'mma Let Ya Finish" West.

Chickenfoot image by LeAnn Mueller.