Sammy Hagar Starts New Residency in Las Vegas

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Sammy Hagar performing during his new residency show in Las Vegas.

News Summary

Sammy Hagar’s new residency show premiered in Las Vegas, showcasing a blend of classic hits and new material. Reflecting on his life-changing encounter with Frank Sinatra, Hagar shared heartfelt memories and paid tribute to fellow musician Eddie Van Halen. The show runs until mid-May and promises fans an unforgettable experience.

Las Vegas Welcomes Sammy Hagar’s New Residency

Las Vegas, NV – Sammy Hagar premiered his new residency show in Las Vegas on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his music career. At the age of 77, Hagar took the stage for a series of performances that captivated fans with a mix of classic hits and rarely performed songs, showcasing his extensive catalog.

During the premiere, Hagar reflected on a life-changing encounter he had with the legendary Frank Sinatra during his first trip to Las Vegas in the late 1960s. At that time, Hagar was a fresh-faced 20-year-old aspiring musician, hoping to secure a gig in Vegas while performing with a small band. A chance meeting with someone connected to Sinatra afforded Hagar the unique opportunity to attend one of the crooner’s performances at the Sands Hotel and Casino.

In a remarkable twist of fate, Frank Sinatra invited Hagar onstage during his show, allowing the young musician to join in the performance, despite Hagar not knowing the lyrics to the song Sinatra was singing. This spontaneous moment became a defining experience for Hagar, marking a pivotal point in his evolving career.

However, the encounter took a tumultuous turn as Hagar left Sinatra’s dressing room after the performance. He was confronted and attacked, but Sinatra’s quick intervention saved him from potential harm. Sinatra opened the door and told Hagar’s assailants to stop, showcasing his protective nature and ensuring Hagar’s safety in what could have been a tragic incident.

As he reflected on this moment in his life, Hagar expressed deep gratitude towards Sinatra, recognizing the critical impact this encounter had on him. The memory of Sinatra’s intervention continues to resonate with Hagar, who views it as a significant event that shaped both his life and career.

During his Las Vegas residency show, Hagar introduced a new song titled “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight,” dedicated to the late Eddie Van Halen, honoring his friend and fellow musician. This heartfelt tribute was just one of the many highlights of the show, which has received acclaim for its energetic performances that include a blend of crowd favorites.

Prior to each performance, Hagar engages in a pre-show ritual that involves drinking tequila with his longtime bassist, Michael Anthony. This tradition has become a beloved part of their routine, setting the tone for their energetic shows.

Hagar’s residency is set to continue through mid-May, offering multiple dates for fans to enjoy his live performances. The show promises an opportunity for long-time fans and new audiences alike to experience Hagar’s musical journey and artistry in an intimate setting.

Frank Sinatra’s Legacy and Recent Controversy

In light of Hagar’s stories of Sinatra, it’s important to recognize the enduring legacy of the legendary artist. Recently, Nancy Sinatra defended her father’s reputation against claims that he would support Donald Trump. She highlighted that her father was not a fan of Trump. This clarification comes in response to a narrative propagated by some that sought to portray Sinatra as someone who would back Trump’s presidential aspirations.

Supporting Nancy’s statements, a 2017 book by Eliot Weisman, Sinatra’s former manager, revealed that Sinatra had previously refused to work with Trump due to disagreements over costs and demands related to his opening act. Ultimately, Sinatra chose to perform at the Sands Hotel instead of performing at Trump’s Taj Mahal, an act of protest against Trump’s disparaging behavior.

Sammy Hagar’s reflections on Sinatra during his Las Vegas residency highlight not only the impact of the legendary performer’s life on his own but also serve as a reminder of Sinatra’s complex legacy that continues to evoke discussion even decades after his passing.