It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a rock show of this caliber, Sammy Hagar brought some of his rock star friends to play with him on this “The Best of All Worlds Tour”. Old friend and Van Halen band mate Michael Anthony played the powerful bass and sang a Van Halen classic, Jason Bonham pounded the drums just like his father did in Led Zeppelin and rounding up the all-star group was guitar wizard Joe Satriani, who stands alone in instrumental guitar music.
The Budweiser Stage in Toronto was ready, a full house of fans of all ages were there to see the Red Rocker. The show started with a video montage on a big screen showing Hagar and friends playing some great moments from the past. Van Halen fans were in for a treat since most of the music played would be from the large assortment of Van Halen hits. The crowd were on their feet for the whole show, which was really great to see.
Sammy Hagar rocks Budweiser Stage in Toronto photo Allan Fournier Lights Camera Media
When band members came to the stage, the place went wild, when Sammy came out, the roof was lifted from the audience response which was very loud.
Hagar started belting out a Van Halen classic “Good Enough”, the sound was loud and clear (ear plugs recommended). The lights were changing with lots of different colours and effects, Sammy Hagar was letting everyone know they were going to get a stellar rock show with great rock tunes from years gone by.
Sammy would emphasize the party life of rock and use it as a promotional tool for his alcohol products on the market. Hagar is in his early 70’s acting like a partier in his 20’s. The fans didn’t mind, keep the party going.
Hagar played some of own material prior to the Van Halen era like, “There’s Only One Way to Rock” and “Heavy Metal” from 1982. No Sammy Hagar would be complete without his solo hit, “I Can’t Drive 55”.
Sammy Hagar rocks Budweiser Stage in Toronto photo Allan Fournier Lights Camera Media
Michael Anthony would take center stage for a Van Halen classic, “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘bout Love”, he handled the vocals along with that powerful bass. I admit a bit of amazement here, but he did a fine job with this song.
Joe Satriani had his turn in the spotlight with “Satch Boogie”, and instrument piece that really shows the talent and skill of this Guitar hero. Stunning facial reactions to high notes and licks, were very memorable.
Jason Bonham couldn’t move around much but he kept on the right beat and played the skins in a memorable fashion that would have made his father proud, Jon Bonham from Led Zeppelin fame.
There was an Australian keyboard player with them to complete the sound but, unfortunately, I didn’t catch his name.
From Sammy’s stories, his strutting across the stage, his guitar playing and his memorable vocals this was definitely a jam packed show for the books that would fall in my top 10. As long as Sammy rocks, fans everywhere be his side and show support. Rock still lives with Sammy Hagar and friends.
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