Sammy Hagar’s “The Best of All Worlds” Tour with Loverboy

Budweiser Stage, July 31, 2024

On a summer night that threatened to be overshadowed by rain, the Budweiser Stage was packed to the rafters with 15,000 eager fans, ready to rock out with legendary acts Loverboy and Sammy Hagar. Despite a brief downpour around 6:30 PM, which left fans seeking shelter and I under the Q107 booth, the skies cleared just in time for a spectacular evening, complete with a rainbow to set the tone.

Loverboy: A Classic Warm-Up

Loverboy kicked off the night at 7:00 PM sharp, and the crowd was immediately transported back to the golden age of rock. Mike Reno, clad in his signature bandana, with his unmistakable voice , had the audience in the palm of his hand. Sharing that he had family and friends in the audience, Reno created a warm, intimate atmosphere, declaring, “You’re all my friends!” The band’s set was a hit parade of their classics, from “Notorious” to “Working for the Weekend,” each song resonating with the audience, who were sometimes singing along. A special highlight was spotting Johnnie Dee from Honeymoon Suite in the crowd, a reminder of the close-knit community that Canadian rock legends share.

Sammy Hagar: The Ultimate Rock Showman

When Sammy Hagar took the stage at 8:20 PM, the energy in the venue soared. Backed by rock heavyweights Michael Anthony on bass, Jason Bonham on drums, and the legendary Joe Satriani on guitar, and Australian musician Rai Thistlethwayte on keyboards, Hagar delivered a set that was nothing short of explosive.

Hagar launched into “Good Enough,” a Van Halen classic that set the tone for a night of high-octane rock. The setlist was a masterclass in rock and was a dream for any Van Halen fan, with the band ripping through iconic tracks like “Poundcake,” “5150,” and “Why Can’t This Be Love.” Hagar, ever the charismatic frontman, had the crowd eating out of his hand from the get-go.

Throughout the night, Hagar kept the energy high, not just with his music but with his antics. A basket of his signature Red Rocker beers sat on the drum riser, and in between songs, Hagar would crack one open, take a swig, and toss it to a lucky fan in the crowd. During “Mas Tequila,” the party atmosphere was in full swing as Hagar poured shots of tequila into red beer cups, handing them out to the audience in front row. It wasn’t just music; it was an all-out celebration.

Hagar’s banter with the audience was a highlight in itself. He joked about his guitar skills, quipping that when he straps on a guitar, it makes Joe Satriani sound good—a playful chemistry between the band members. Hagar’s command of the stage and his connection with the audience were undeniable, especially when he asked the crowd how much beer, tequila, and rock ‘n’ roll should I bring, with each request met with louder and louder cheers.

The show reached its peak with Van Halen classics like “Panama,” “Best of Both Worlds,” and the anthemic “I Can’t Drive 55.” Hagar’s performance was a celebration of his career, and the inclusion of “Eagles Fly” and “Heavy Metal” reminded everyone of his incredible solo work. The night ended on a high note with “When It’s Love,” leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.

Conclusion

Sammy Hagar and Loverboy delivered a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll joy, packed with fond memories, high energy, and a few drinks to go around. From Loverboy’s timeless hits to Hagar’s dynamic performance with his all-star band, the Best of All Worlds Tour is a must-see for any rock fan.

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Drew Osborne

I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.