David Lee Roth Revives Rare Van Halen Song on 2026 Tour Opener

The singer also covered Billy Joel's 'New York State of Mind' during the concert in Spokane.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:49am

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An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering red and gold sequins, capturing the luxurious textures and dramatic lighting of a rock concert stage.The flamboyant stage presence and showmanship of David Lee Roth remain a highlight of his live performances, even decades after his Van Halen heyday.Spokane Today

David Lee Roth kicked off his 2026 tour by performing the Van Halen deep cut 'Little Dreamer' for the first time in nearly 20 years as a solo artist. The setlist also included a surprise cover of Billy Joel's 'New York State of Mind' during the show in Spokane, Washington.

Why it matters

Roth's decision to resurrect the rarely played 'Little Dreamer' from Van Halen's debut album delighted fans and showcased his continued commitment to honoring the band's classic catalog. The unexpected Joel cover also demonstrated Roth's willingness to mix things up and keep his shows fresh for longtime supporters.

The details

According to reports, Roth and his five-piece backing band opened the show with a trio of Van Halen staples - 'Panama,' 'Drop Dead Legs,' and 'Romeo Delight.' They then segued into the deep cut 'Little Dreamer,' which Roth had not performed live as a solo artist since 2003, though he had played it with Van Halen as recently as 2008. Later in the set, Roth also surprised the audience with a cover of Billy Joel's 'New York State of Mind,' though fan-shot footage of that performance has not yet surfaced.

  • The tour kicked off on April 16, 2026 in Spokane, Washington.
  • 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 singer of the rock band Van Halen, who is now embarking on a solo tour.

Van Halen

The iconic American hard rock band that Roth fronted for many years.

Billy Joel

The acclaimed singer-songwriter whose song 'New York State of Mind' Roth covered during the concert.

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What they’re saying

“Diamond Dave and his increasingly large band - he's up to five backing singers now - hit the stage with a hard-hitting opening volley of 'Panama,' 'Drop Dead Legs' and 'Romeo Delight.'”

— Matthew Wilkening, Author

What’s next

Roth and his band will perform next on Saturday, April 18 in Portland, Oregon. His tour - apparently named 'Don't Love Me, Rent Me' - is currently scheduled to conclude on June 20 in Milwaukee.

The takeaway

Roth's decision to revive the rarely played 'Little Dreamer' and cover Billy Joel's 'New York State of Mind' during the tour opener demonstrates his continued commitment to honoring Van Halen's classic catalog while also keeping his live shows fresh and unpredictable for longtime fans.