77 and Thriving: Former Van Halen Vocalist Sammy Hagar Spotted Enjoying Japan

Former Van Halen vocalist Sammy Hagar

In mid-September, a foreign man in a white T-shirt and aloha shorts was seen taking a commemorative photo in front of a hotel in Tokyo. At first glance, he looked like any ordinary tourist, but he was none other than former Van Halen vocalist Sammy Hagar, now 77.

“Van Halen is an American hard rock/heavy metal (HR/HM) band representing the 20th century, known for iconic songs like ‘Jump’ and ‘Panama.’ Led by guitarist and band leader Edward Van Halen (known as Eddie), Sammy joined as the band’s second vocalist, staying for 11 years from 1985 to 1996. The band has sold over 56.5 million albums in the U.S. and over 80 million worldwide, and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.

This year, Sammy himself was inducted into the Hall of Fame. His visit this time is for the Japan leg of his world tour, The Best of All Worlds 2024 Tour, where he’ll be performing mainly Van Halen songs. This tour marks the first time in 20 years that Sammy will be performing the band’s songs, making it a global sensation,” said a music magazine editor.

Now 77, Sammy still maintains a strong, well-built physique reminiscent of his peak. Even as a grandpa, he exudes an impressive cool older guy aura. In his free time, he has been enjoying Japanese sightseeing, such as visiting the “Tiger and Bamboo” screen at Nagoya Castle with his family and band members and dining at a high-end Japanese restaurant in Nagoya’s famous Nishiki district. His adventures have also been shared on his social media.

 

Because the fans want it.

In an interview with Rolling Stone Japan published on September 18, Sammy expressed his love for Japan, saying:

“Japan is a special place for me. I’m not just saying that to be polite.”

“I go on stage for my art. Doing a tour in Japan is something both I and the fans want.”

True to his words, his shows in Nagoya, Osaka, and Tokyo were powerful, thoroughly captivating fans. Though he’s now 77, his rock spirit is still burning strong.

FRIDAY Digital welcomes information and tips from our readers. Please send your information to the following information form or to the official X.

Information form: https://friday.kodansha.co.jp/tips
Official X: https://x.com/FRIDAY_twit