Sammy Hagar Announces Limited Summer UK Tour

Sammy Hagar, the fiery Red Rocker whose voice has powered some of rock’s most unforgettable anthems, is gearing up to bring his signature high-octane energy across the Atlantic for a limited UK tour in July 2026. After wrapping up a successful North American run with his Best of All Worlds band, Hagar announced this brief series of arena shows, marking his first performances in the UK since 1996.

Fans who have waited decades for this moment can expect a night packed with classics from his Van Halen era, solo hits, and surprises that celebrate a career spanning over five decades. It’s another testament to Hagar’s enduring passion for the stage, even as he approaches his late seventies, proving that true rock spirit never fades.

Born in Salinas, California, in 1947, Sammy Hagar first burst onto the scene in the early 1970s as the lead singer of Montrose, a hard-rocking outfit that delivered raw, riff-heavy tracks like “Rock the Nation” and “Bad Motor Scooter.” His work with Montrose laid the groundwork for his powerhouse vocal style, blending grit with melody in a way that caught the ear of rock fans everywhere.

By the mid-1970s, Hagar launched a solo career that quickly gained traction, with albums like Standing Hampton and Three Lock Box showcasing his knack for crafting infectious hooks. His breakthrough came in 1984 with VOA, featuring the rebellious anthem “I Can’t Drive 55,” a song that captured nation-wide frustration with highway speed limits and became a staple on FM radio. Hagar’s larger-than-life persona, complete with his love for fast cars and beach vibes, made him a symbol of California’s sun-soaked rock scene.

Everything changed in 1985 when Hagar stepped in as Van Halen’s frontman following David Lee Roth’s departure. The move sparked intense debate among fans, but Hagar’s tenure proved wildly successful for the group, ushering in what many call the “Van Hagar” era. Albums like 5150, OU812, and For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge topped the charts and spawned hits such as “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” and “Right Now.”

Hagar’s chemistry with guitarist Eddie Van Halen, bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Alex Van Halen produced a more melodic, radio-friendly sound while retaining the band’s edge. Though tensions led to his exit in 1996, a brief reunion in 2004 reminded everyone of that magic.

Post-Van Halen, Hagar didn’t slow down; he formed supergroups like Chickenfoot with fellow rock heavyweights and built a business empire around his Cabo Wabo tequila brand, all while releasing solo material that kept his voice in the spotlight.

For this Best of All Worlds tour, Hagar has assembled what could be considered a dream team of musicians whose pedigrees match his own legendary status. On bass is Michael Anthony, the steadfast low-end provider who co-founded Van Halen in the 1970s with the Van Halen brothers. Anthony’s thunderous playing and harmonious backing vocals were integral to the band’s sound from their self-titled debut right through the Van Hagar years.

After parting ways with Van Halen in 2006 amid internal drama, Anthony reunited with Hagar in projects like The Circle, bringing that familiar rumble and stage presence that fans adore. His career highlights include inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Van Halen in 2007. Despite all that transpired with Van Halen, he’s remained a beloved figure for his down-to-earth demeanor and unwavering enthusiasm for performing.

Lead guitar is being handled by Joe Satriani, a virtuoso whose instrumental prowess has earned him acclaim as one of the greatest players alive. Emerging in the 1980s with albums like Surfing with the Alien, Satriani built a solo career around mind-bending technique and emotive melodies, influencing generations of guitarists. He founded the G3 tour series, sharing stages with icons like Steve Vai and Eric Johnson, and later joined Hagar in Chickenfoot, where his skills added a layer of sophistication to the group’s hard rock foundation. Satriani’s involvement here promises intricate solos that pay homage to Eddie Van Halen’s legacy while injecting his own unique flair.

Holding down the drums is Kenny Aronoff, a session-seasoned powerhouse known for his precision and power. Aronoff rose to prominence in the 1980s backing John Mellencamp on hits like “Jack & Diane” and “Small Town,” and contributing to over sixty Top 40 singles across his career. His resume reads like a who’s who of rock, with stints alongside Bob Dylan, Smashing Pumpkins, and Jon Bon Jovi. Aronoff’s adaptability and rock-solid groove make him the perfect fit for a setlist that spans eras and styles, ensuring the rhythm section anchors the show with relentless energy.

The tour kicks off on July 4, 2026 with a show at Manchester’s AO Arena, followed by Birmingham’s bp pulse LIVE on July 5, Leeds’ First Direct Arena on July 7, and a climactic finale at London’s O2 Arena on July 9. Special guests Joan Jett & The Blackhearts will open each night, adding their punk-infused rock classics like “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” to the bill.

Hagar has teased a deep dive into his catalog, focusing on Van Halen favorites alongside solo gems and perhaps even a nod to Montrose. Presales began immediately after the announcement, with general tickets available from October 31. This short run follows the tour’s strong North American performance, where crowds raved about the chemistry and hit-packed sets.

At a time when many peers are retiring, Hagar’s decision to cross the pond reflects his love for connecting with fans worldwide. “It’s been a long time coming,” he shared in the announcement, hinting at the excitement of revisiting UK stages after nearly three decades.

For rock lovers, this tour isn’t just a concert; it’s a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and the timeless thrill of live music. Whether you’re a die-hard Van Hagar devotee or a casual admirer, these shows promise to deliver the goods with heart and volume cranked to eleven.