Sammy Hagar, also known as the Red Rocker, recently performed two iconic Van Halen songs for the first time in 20 years. The former Van Halen frontman was joined by his former bandmate Michael Anthony, guitarist Joe Satriani, and drummer Jason Bonham for a special show that brought back memories of the legendary rock band.
The performance took place at the Catalina Island Museum in Avalon, California, and was part of a charity event for the Catalina Island Medical Center Foundation. Hagar and his bandmates took the stage and delivered a high-energy performance that had the audience on their feet.
The highlight of the night was when Hagar and Anthony performed “Jump” and “Panama” together, marking the first time they have played these songs since their time in Van Halen. The crowd went wild as they sang along to every word, and it was clear that the chemistry between Hagar and Anthony was still as strong as ever.
Hagar also took the opportunity to pay tribute to his late friend and former bandmate, Eddie Van Halen. He shared a heartfelt message about their time together and how much he misses him. The audience joined in a moment of silence to honor the legendary guitarist.
While this may not be a full Van Halen reunion, it was the closest thing fans have gotten in a long time. Hagar and Anthony’s performance of these classic songs brought back memories of the band’s heyday and reminded everyone of the incredible talent that was Eddie Van Halen.
Hagar has previously expressed his desire for a reunion with Van Halen, but unfortunately, it never came to fruition before Eddie’s passing. However, this special performance serves as a reminder of the magic that the band created and the impact they had on the music industry.
The show also featured other hits from Hagar’s solo career, including “I Can’t Drive 55” and “Right Now.” Satriani and Bonham also had their moments to shine with impressive solos that showcased their incredible musicianship.
Overall, the night was a celebration of Van Halen’s music and a tribute to Eddie Van Halen’s legacy. While it may not have been a full reunion, it was a special moment for fans and the band members alike. And who knows, maybe this performance will inspire a future reunion with Hagar and Anthony. But for now, we can be grateful for this unforgettable night of rock and roll.