Sammy Hagar ‘Guarantees’ There Will Be Original Music From ‘The Best Of All Worlds’ Touring Band
Sammy Hagar, the iconic rock vocalist known for his dynamic career with Van Halen and as a solo artist, recently made waves during his appearance on ‘The Bogus Otis Show’ podcast. Hagar delved into the possibility of creating new music with his current touring band, The Best of All Worlds. This ensemble features a stellar lineup including former Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani, legendary drummer Jason Bonham, and multi-instrumentalist Rai Thistlethwayte. Hagar’s comments have sparked excitement among fans, who are eager to see what this powerhouse group can produce in terms of original material.
During the podcast, Hagar was candid about the challenges of producing new music in today’s music industry. He acknowledged that record sales are not what they used to be, making it financially unviable for many artists to invest in creating new albums. Despite these hurdles, Hagar expressed a strong desire to create new music with his bandmates, although he admitted he was unsure about the timing and the reasons behind it. This revelation has left fans on the edge of their seats, wondering when they might hear fresh tracks from this supergroup.
Hagar’s remarks about the financial aspects of making records were particularly revealing. He pointed out that while making a record might not be profitable in the traditional sense, it could serve as a useful tax write-off. This pragmatic approach underscores the realities faced by many musicians in an era where digital streaming has drastically altered the revenue landscape. Nevertheless, Hagar’s passion for music remains undiminished, and he seems committed to exploring new creative avenues with The Best of All Worlds.
The Best of All Worlds tour has been a significant event for rock enthusiasts, bringing together a blend of talents from different eras and bands. The setlist for the tour is a nostalgic journey through Van Halen’s extensive catalog, featuring hits like ‘Good Enough,’ ‘Poundcake,’ ‘Runaround,’ ‘Panama,’ and ‘Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love.’ In addition to these classics, the band also performs Joe Satriani’s instrumental masterpiece ‘Satch Boogie’ and some of Hagar’s solo hits such as ‘There’s Only One Way to Rock’ and ‘I Can’t Drive 55.’ This eclectic mix showcases the versatility and enduring appeal of the musicians involved.
One of the intriguing aspects of this tour is the reunion of Hagar and Michael Anthony, who have a long history together from their days in Van Halen. Anthony’s powerful bass lines and backing vocals were a crucial part of Van Halen’s sound during the Hagar era. Their collaboration in The Best of All Worlds, along with the addition of Joe Satriani and Jason Bonham, has created a unique blend of musical styles and influences. Fans have been thrilled to see these rock legends share the stage once again, delivering electrifying performances night after night.
Joe Satriani’s involvement in The Best of All Worlds adds another layer of excitement to the tour. Known for his technical prowess and innovative guitar work, Satriani brings a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound. His previous collaboration with Michael Anthony in the supergroup Chickenfoot laid the groundwork for their current partnership. However, unlike Chickenfoot, The Best of All Worlds delves deep into the Van Halen repertoire, offering fans a chance to hear these classic songs performed by a new lineup of seasoned musicians.
Jason Bonham, the son of legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, rounds out the rhythm section with his powerful drumming. Bonham’s contributions to the tour have been widely praised, as he brings his own unique style while honoring the legacy of his father. His chemistry with Michael Anthony and Joe Satriani has been a highlight of the performances, providing a solid foundation for Hagar’s soaring vocals and energetic stage presence. Together, they create a formidable musical force that captivates audiences wherever they go.
Rai Thistlethwayte, a multi-instrumentalist known for his work with the band Thirsty Merc, adds another layer of versatility to The Best of All Worlds. His ability to seamlessly switch between keyboards, guitar, and vocals enhances the band’s overall sound. Thistlethwayte’s musical prowess complements the talents of his bandmates, allowing for intricate arrangements and dynamic performances. His inclusion in the lineup has been a pleasant surprise for many fans, who appreciate the depth and variety he brings to the group’s live shows.
Despite the logistical and financial challenges of making new music, Hagar remains optimistic about the future. He hinted that while the band may not rush into the studio immediately, the potential for creating original material is very much alive. Hagar’s enthusiasm for collaborating with his talented bandmates is palpable, and he seems genuinely excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. This optimism is shared by fans, who eagerly await any news of new recordings from The Best of All Worlds.
The upcoming reissue of Van Halen’s 1995 album ‘Balance’ has also generated considerable buzz. This album, the last to feature Hagar as the lead vocalist, holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. The reissue promises to include additional content, offering a fresh perspective on this classic record. Hagar’s revelation about the reissue during the podcast has only added to the anticipation, as fans look forward to revisiting one of Van Halen’s most memorable albums.
In addition to the reissue, there is also talk of releasing a pay-per-view concert from 1995 that was never commercially available due to Hagar’s departure from Van Halen. This concert, which was shot in Toronto and aired in Canada and later in the U.S., captures a pivotal moment in the band’s history. Hagar expressed surprise and interest in the idea, suggesting that it could be a valuable addition to the band’s legacy. While no concrete plans have been announced, the possibility of releasing this concert footage has certainly piqued the interest of fans.
As The Best of All Worlds tour continues, Hagar’s commitment to honoring Van Halen’s legacy and exploring new musical horizons remains unwavering. The tour has been a celebration of the band’s evolution, showcasing songs from different eras and highlighting the talents of its members. For Hagar, this tour is not just about revisiting the past but also about looking forward to the future. His passion for music and his dedication to his fans are evident in every performance, making The Best of All Worlds tour a must-see event for rock enthusiasts everywhere.