Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee Sammy Hagar is set to unveil a deeply personal new single, titled “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight.”, on April 25 via Big Machine Rock. Co-written with guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani, the track is a melodic rock anthem born from a dream and shaped by introspective lyrics, compelling guitar work, and driving rhythms. The single will make its worldwide debut across all major streaming platforms on April 25, accompanied by an official lyric video premiering on YouTube.
Inspired by a vivid dream Sammy Hagar had about the late Eddie Van Halen, “Encore, Thank You, Goodnight.” represents a poignant full-circle moment in Hagar’s illustrious career. Featuring Hagar on vocals, Michael Anthony on bass, Joe Satriani on guitar, and Kenny Aronoff on drums, the track brings together an all-star lineup. The production, overseen by Hagar, Satriani, and Eric Caudieux, blends a nostalgic essence with a fresh, forward-thinking sound.
Hagar recalls that the dream occurred about a year after Eddie Van Halen’s passing and left a profound emotional imprint. Rather than serving as a mournful farewell, the song stands as a heartfelt tribute and celebration — a thank you to the fans and a recognition of the unforgettable era they shared during their time in Van Halen.
Hagar said: “This song is my final bow to that part of my life. It’s not meant to be anything more than a ‘thank you’ — with love, with respect, and with one hell of a guitar solo”.
Hagar also shared that Satriani’s contribution to the track brought a unique emotional energy. “Joe was the perfect partner to help me shape the sound — he brought in that big, emotional, guitar-driven energy that feels like Eddie’s spirit but is entirely of Joe’s creation. With Michael Anthony’s thundering bass and stellar VAN HALEN-esque background vocals and Kenny Aronoff’s relentlessly powerful driving rhythms, the song really came together on all levels”.
