David Lee Roth Revives Van Halen Deep Cut for 2026 Tour Opener

The former Van Halen frontman dusted off the 1978 album track 'Little Dreamer' for his first show of the year.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:52pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shredded black leather and glittering sequins, capturing the glamorous and energetic visual style of David Lee Roth and Van Halen.The iconic frontman's return to the stage brings a burst of high-energy glam and nostalgia for Van Halen's glory days.Pasadena Today

David Lee Roth kicked off his 2026 North American solo tour with an energetic set that included classic Van Halen hits like 'Panama', 'Drop Dead Legs', and 'Romeo Delight'. The 71-year-old rocker also surprised fans by reviving the deep cut 'Little Dreamer' from Van Halen's 1978 debut album, marking the first time he had performed the song live as a solo artist since 2003.

Why it matters

As one of the most iconic frontmen in hard rock history, David Lee Roth's return to the stage is always a major event for Van Halen fans. The inclusion of the deep cut 'Little Dreamer' shows Roth is still digging into the band's catalog to please diehard listeners, not just relying on the biggest hits.

The details

After an energetic opening with 'Panama', 'Drop Dead Legs', and 'Romeo Delight', Roth slowed things down with a performance of 'Little Dreamer', a track from Van Halen's 1978 self-titled debut album. According to SetList.fm, this was the first time Roth had played the song live as a solo artist since 2003, though he had performed it with Van Halen as recently as 2008.

  • David Lee Roth kicked off his 2026 North American solo tour on Thursday, April 16.
  • Roth last performed 'Little Dreamer' live as a solo artist in 2003.
  • Roth last performed 'Little Dreamer' with Van Halen in 2008.

The players

David Lee Roth

The former lead vocalist of the hard rock band Van Halen, known for his energetic stage presence and flamboyant persona.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Roth will continue his 2026 North American tour with a performance at Spirit Mountain Casino in Grand Ronde, Oregon on Saturday, April 18. The tour is scheduled to wrap up on June 20 at the BMO Pavilion in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The takeaway

David Lee Roth's decision to revive the deep cut 'Little Dreamer' from Van Halen's debut album shows the legendary frontman is still catering to the band's diehard fans, not just relying on the biggest hits. This move underscores Roth's commitment to delivering a dynamic and diverse setlist that celebrates the full breadth of Van Halen's iconic catalog.