Meet the Iowa Fans Rocking Tailgates in a Van Halen Tribute Band

The Birth of Van Hayden

It started with some quarantine boredom in 2021. Jake Olson, a 51 year old pharmacist, made a pact with a friend to learn the entire '5150' album by Van Halen. Once they pulled it off, they wanted to play the songs live at Iowa Hawkeyes tailgates.

They needed a name and a hook. That is when Olson realized they could combine the legendary rock band with former Iowa coach Hayden Fry. Van Hayden was born.

To pull off the surprise, they needed a way to transport their gear without giving away the joke. In April 2023, Andy Olson bought a used ambulance for 8,000 dollars. They painted the vehicle black and gold, matching the style of Eddie Van Halen's famous guitar, and named it the Vanbulance.

Dressing the Part

The band members are regular professionals, including a pharmacist, an actuary, and a historic home restorer. But on game days, they transform into rock stars.

Most of the band dresses in Hayden Fry's classic game day outfit. They wear black pullovers with the Tigerhawk logo, white collared shirts, aviator sunglasses, white pants, and fake mustaches. Lead singer Robby Marvin, who goes by Hayden Lee Roth, takes it a step further. He wears tight leggings with black and gold fringe.

The band recently played right outside Kinnick Stadium before the game against Ohio State. They opened with their version of 'Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love,' which they renamed 'Ain't Gonna Stop Our Run.'

Even Hayden Fry's family loves the tribute. Former athletic department worker Dale Arens shared the band with Fry's son, Kelly. Kelly said his father would have been honored by the band and would have gotten a big kick out of their look.

What it means for the next game

Iowa Hawkeyes at Washington Huskies (College Football, Sat, 10 Oct): Washington Huskies win 55%, Iowa Hawkeyes win 45%; projected score Washington Huskies 23, Iowa Hawkeyes 20. Our safest pick: Over 31.5 points.