Rock legend David Lee Roth kicked off his highly anticipated 2026 solo tour in electrifying fashion, by reaching deep into the Van Halen vault and resurrecting a long-forgotten gem that instantly sent longtime fans into a frenzy.
Opening night took place on April 16 in Spokane, Washington, where Roth launched into a blistering set packed with classics, swagger, and a few unexpected twists. But amid the high-energy staples like “Panama,” “Drop Dead Legs,” and “Romeo Delight,” it was one surprise moment that defined the night.
A Rare Return: “Little Dreamer” Steals The Spotlight
Midway through the set, Roth shifted gears and delivered a haunting rendition of “Little Dreamer,” a deep cut from Van Halen. The performance marked the first time he had played the song as a solo artist in over two decades, last appearing in his solo shows back in 2003.
The moment wasn’t just nostalgic, it was historic. While Roth had revisited the track during Van Halen reunions as recently as 2008, its reappearance in his solo catalog signaled a renewed willingness to dig deeper into the band’s earliest material.
A Setlist Built On Legacy, And Surprises
The 17-song set leaned heavily on Van Halen’s iconic catalog, reaffirming Roth’s enduring connection to the music that made him a global rock star. Fan favorites like “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love,” “Unchained,” and “Jump” kept the crowd roaring, while a stripped-down acoustic blues segment added texture to the performance.
But Roth didn’t stop at nostalgia. He also threw in curveballs, including a live debut of New York State of Mind by Billy Joel, a bold move that underscored his unpredictable stage persona.
Still The Ultimate Showman At 71
At 71, Roth proved he hasn’t lost the charisma that made him one of rock’s most magnetic frontmen. Backed by a large band, including multiple backing vocalists, he delivered a performance that balanced theatrical flair with genuine musical depth.
The tour launch also follows his buzzworthy appearance at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, where he surprised fans by joining Teddy Swims onstage for a rendition of “Jump,” reintroducing his legacy to a new generation.
A Tour Fueled By Deep Cuts And Big Moments
With the tour, reportedly titled Don’t Love Me, Rent Me, running through June, the Spokane opener suggests fans can expect more than just a greatest-hits run. By dusting off “Little Dreamer,” Roth has set the tone for a tour that celebrates not only the hits, but the hidden corners of the Van Halen catalog.
For longtime fans, it’s a reminder of just how deep that catalog runs, and for Roth, it’s proof that even after decades in the spotlight, he still knows how to surprise.
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