Michael Anthony Sobolewski, born on June 20, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American musician renowned for his role as the bassist and backing vocalist for the legendary hard rock band Van Halen from 1974 to 2006. During his tenure with Van Halen, Anthony contributed to the band's first 11 albums, establishing himself as their longest-serving bassist. After departing from Van Halen in 2006, he joined forces with former bandmate Sammy Hagar to form the supergroups Chickenfoot and Sammy Hagar and the Circle. Beyond his musical endeavors, Anthony has ventured into the business world with his line of hot sauces, Mad Anthony. In recognition of his contributions to music, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen in 2007. Anthony's early musical influences included Jack Bruce of Cream, and he began his musical journey playing in bands such as Poverty's Children and Snake before his iconic stint with Van Halen.