Sammy Hagar To Release Eddie Van Halen-Inspired New Single

Sammy Hagar is set to delight rock fans worldwide with his new single, “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight,” inspired by a vivid dream about his late Van Halen bandmate, Eddie Van Halen. Scheduled for release on April 25, 2025, the track is described as a celebration of the unforgettable times shared in Van Halen, rather than a somber farewell. As a heartfelt homage, the song has been crafted with the collaborative efforts of notable musicians including guitar legend Joe Satriani, bassist Michael Anthony, and drummer Kenny Aronoff, forming a band that not only pays tribute to the past but also looks toward the future of rock. Big Machine Rock will distribute this much-anticipated track, complete with an accompanying lyric video on YouTube. These initiatives are set to encapsulate both nostalgia and the forward trajectory of Hagar's iconic rock journey.

“Encore, Thank You, Goodnight” stands as a testament to Hagar's enduring legacy in rock music, marking a full-circle moment in his celebrated career. Reflecting on the dream that inspired the song, which occurred about a year after Eddie's passing, Hagar articulates that the song embodies a deep sense of appreciation and respect for fans and for the indelible chapter of his life during his tenure with Van Halen. The collaborative partnership with Joe Satriani on the guitar contributes significantly to the track, adding layers of emotional intensity and guitar-driven energy that reinvigorate the spirit of Van Halen while retaining elements that are uniquely Joe's creative outputs. Michael Anthony's contribution of thundering bass lines and Van Halen-esque background vocals, alongside the relentless rhythms of Kenny Aronoff's drumming, create an immersive soundscape that fulfills all expectations of a Hagar anthem.

Hagar's upcoming schedule surrounding the release of “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight” includes a series of high-profile performances and media appearances. Notably, the official music video, directed by ZZ Satriani, will premiere during Hagar's headlining set at the Stagecoach Festival's Palomino Stage on April 27. This world premiere on YouTube will further amplify the song's reach and impact. Following this, the inaugural live performance of the song will take place on April 30, 2025, during the kick-off of Hagar's Las Vegas residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM. The residency, titled “The Best of All Worlds Tour,” presents a unique setlist and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the classic and new sounds of Hagar and his band.

Since bursting onto the scene with Montrose, Hagar's career trajectory has covered a range of successful ventures in music and beyond, including a thriving lifestyle brand that encompasses everything from restaurants to spirits. Hagar's influence as a rock musician is further solidified by his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and his contributions to collaborative projects like Chickenfoot and The Circle. With this new single, Hagar continues to set the stage for not just musical nostalgia but also for evolution in sound and artistic expression.