Sammy Hagar “Best of All Worlds” tour faced a potential setback when drummer Jason Bonham had to miss the Cincinnati concert on August 27 due to a family emergency. Bonham, who has been a cornerstone of the tour’s rhythm section, was forced to return to his home in the U.K. just days before the show, leaving Hagar and his team scrambling to find a replacement.
In a fortunate turn of events, veteran drummer Kenny Aronoff stepped up to fill the void. Aronoff, known for his extensive career as a session and touring drummer, answered the call and joined Hagar for the Cincinnati performance at the Riverbend Music Center. Hagar, ever grateful for Aronoff’s quick response and professionalism, publicly thanked the drummer for “saving the day” during a critical moment.
The concert itself was a resounding success, with Aronoff seamlessly fitting into the band’s lineup. His experience and skill on the drums allowed the show to proceed without a hitch, much to the delight of the audience. Hagar even dedicated a special shout-out to Aronoff at the end of the concert, calling him “the man who saved the day” and expressing his heartfelt gratitude for his contribution.
Aronoff’s participation in the Cincinnati show also marked a reunion of sorts. He has a history with Hagar, having toured with him in the past. Notably, Aronoff was a part of Hagar’s supergroup Chickenfoot, which featured ex-Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony and guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani. Aronoff’s familiarity with Hagar’s music and style made him the perfect candidate to step in at a moment’s notice.
During the performance, Hagar dedicated the song “Eagles Fly” to Bonham and his family, expressing his well-wishes for their situation. The dedication was a touching moment, showing Hagar’s deep respect and camaraderie with Bonham, despite his absence.
Kenny Aronoff, a drummer with a storied career, has played with an impressive list of artists, including John Mellencamp, the Rolling Stones, and Bruce Springsteen. His ability to adapt to different musical styles and his consistent excellence on the drums have made him a sought-after musician in the industry.
Sammy Hagar “Best of All Worlds” tour continues with upcoming shows in Nashville, Noblesville, Indiana, and Maryland Heights, Missouri, before heading to Japan for a series of concerts in September. With Aronoff stepping in, the tour has remained on track, ensuring that fans continue to enjoy the high-energy performances that Hagar is known for.
In the world of rock music, where the show must always go on, Kenny Aronoff proved to be the hero of the day, ensuring that the Cincinnati crowd received the full Sammy Hagar experience, even in the face of unexpected challenges.