Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Sammy Hagar Shares Post Dedicated to Late Who Coined Nickname

Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com
Sterling Munksgard / Shutterstock.com

Sammy Hagar recently took to his social media platforms to commemorate the life of John Pruner, the fan known for giving him the enduring nickname “Red Rocker.” Pruner passed away earlier this month, leaving a legacy not just as a devoted follower of Hagar, but also as the original fan who coined the title that would become synonymous with the singer. In 1976, after the release of Hagar's Red Album, Pruner attended one of Hagar's performances in Seattle, Washington, and approached him afterward with a request. He asked Hagar to autograph a concert review with the phrase “The Red Rocker,” a moment that planted the seed for the moniker that would stick with the rock singer throughout his career.

Pruner became a familiar face for Hagar, showing up at venues across the country, always supporting his idol. Recognizing Pruner's commitment, Hagar awarded him with a “golden lifetime all-access pass,” allowing him to attend any of his shows for free. This gesture reciprocated Pruner's loyalty and ensured his presence at events where he continued to be a cherished supporter until his health began to fail.

In his tribute, Hagar detailed how, despite Pruner's declining health over the last decade, he made every effort to attend as many concerts as he could, even in a wheelchair. Hagar seemed to appreciate not just Pruner's presence but his spirit, always making sure there was space for him at shows, whether it be on the side of the stage or through a FaceTime call when Pruner was hospitalized. The fans who followed Hagar's journey might recall episodes when Hagar would offer shout-outs to Pruner during concerts, underscoring the significant role he played in Hagar's life.

The bond between Hagar and Pruner extended beyond music, marked by a genuine friendship. Hagar noted in his tribute that Pruner’s support was unwavering and something he deeply cherished. He also expressed his sadness at Pruner's passing and resolved that the show would continue, as he believed Pruner would have wanted it no other way. Hagar urged Pruner to “give Eddie [Van Halen] a big hug” in the afterlife, adding a personal touch to the tribute that also hints at the interconnected nature of relationships in the rock community.

 

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Aerosmith x YUNGBLUD Team Up on “My Only Angel”: Classic Rock Royalty Meets Gen-Z Fire

Aerosmith and YUNGBLUD have unveiled a teaser for a collaborative single titled “My Only Angel.” It’s positioned as Aerosmith’s first…

Vince Neil Health Update: Stroke, Recovery, and the Rescheduled Mötley Crüe Vegas Residency

Mötley Crüe frontman Vince Neil revealed he suffered a stroke the day after Christmas 2024, which led to the band…

Gilmour,David, Mason,Nick, Wright,Richard, Waters,Roger Pink Floyd - Live At Pompeii - 1972 Director: Adrian Maben Bayerische Rundfunk/Ortf Scene Still Music

Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here turns 50 with a major reissue on December 12

Pink Floyd has officially announced Wish You Were Here 50, a 50th-anniversary edition arriving December 12, 2025 via Sony Music.…

Iron Maiden performs live during their Run For Your Lives tour at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow on Monday 30th June 2025 Band Members: Steve Harris Ð bass, backing vocals, keyboards, synthesisers Dave Murray Ð guitars synthesisers Adrian Smith Ð guitars, backing vocals keyboards, synthesisers Bruce Dickinson Ð lead vocals Nicko McBrain Ð drums, percussion Janick Gers Ð guitars Iron Maiden in concert, Glasgow, UK - 30 Jun 2025

Bruce Dickinson Reflects on His Voice and Resilience After Cancer Treatment

Bruce Dickinson, the legendary frontman of Iron Maiden, is opening up about his voice, health, and career longevity in a…

Spinal Tap II Review Roundup: What Critics Are Saying About The End Continues

Early reviews for Spinal Tap II: The End Continues are mixed to warmly positive. Many critics say it is affectionate,…

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix’s Axis: Bold as Love Returns as a Super Deluxe Box Set: Release Date, Formats, Tracklist

Release date: Friday, November 7, 2025Label: Experience Hendrix and Legacy RecordingsFormats: 5 LP plus Blu ray, or 4 CD plus…

Wings Anthology & Venus and Mars 50th Anniversary Reissue: What Fans Need to Know

Release dates: Wings: The Definitive Self Titled Collection| November 7, 2025 Venus and Mars 50th Anniversary Edition (half speed mastered…

Ozzy Osbourne YUNGBLUD Aerosmith MTV Tribute Medley Stuns the 2025 VMAs: Setlist, Performers, How to Watch

Event: MTV Video Music AwardsDate: Sunday, September 7, 2025Venue: UBS Arena, New YorkBroadcast: CBS & MTV (simulcast), streaming on Paramount+…

Eagles Extend Las Vegas Sphere Run Into 2026: Dates, Tickets, Prices, and What to Expect

New 2026 shows: January 23, 24, 30, 31 — Sphere, Las VegasTicket floor (all-in): $175 (taxes/fees included)On-sale schedule (PT): Artist…