Sammy Hagar took the stage in Cleveland over the weekend to induct Foreigner into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, celebrating his longtime friendship with band founder Mick Jones and reflecting on their colorful past. Hagar, known for his high-energy performances and rock credentials, performed Hot Blooded alongside a star-studded ensemble, honoring a band that has been part of his journey since the early 1970s.
Decades of Friendship and Admiration: Hagar and Jones first crossed paths when Hagar’s band Montrose supported Spooky Tooth, Jones’s band at the time, back in the ‘70s. From that tour, Hagar became a fan of Jones’s sound and the early influences that would carry over into Foreigner’s music, notably the “half-time choruses.” The two bonded quickly and have kept in touch over the years, even jokingly musing about Hagar joining Foreigner at one point.
A Moment of Tension: Despite their deep friendship, Hagar recalled a memorable “bump” during Foreigner’s 1978 Double Vision tour. When Hagar’s band opened for Foreigner in Flint, Michigan, his encore was abruptly cut short when the lights were turned on, sparking a moment of rebellious rock ‘n’ roll spirit from Hagar, who continued performing anyway. His remarks about the incident on a Detroit radio station the next day—only to find Jones waiting to go on air next—added a bit of awkwardness. However, the two patched things up later, with Jones even producing Van Halen’s 5150, the first album featuring Hagar as frontman.
Channeling Lou Gramm’s Legendary Vocals: Hagar paid special homage to original Foreigner singer Lou Gramm, acknowledging it was “intimidating” to sing Gramm’s parts on Hot Blooded during the Rock Hall performance. Both vocalists are known for their high-energy, powerful rock vocals, and Hagar shared that they’ve discussed how “painting themselves into a corner” with ambitious notes in their youth has created challenges now that they’re in their 70s.
Rock Hall Highlights and Mick Jones’ Absence: Foreigner’s Rock Hall induction featured performances by the band’s current lineup along with special guests Slash, Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Demi Lovato, and Kelly Clarkson. Sadly, Jones was unable to attend due to his battle with Parkinson’s disease, but original members Lou Gramm, Al Greenwood, and Rick Wills joined the group for a rendition of I Want to Know What Love Is.
This Rock Hall moment not only celebrated Foreigner’s influence on rock music but also underscored the camaraderie, respect, and history between Hagar, Jones, and the band. For Hagar, the night was a reminder of the enduring friendships and spirited rivalries that have shaped his decades-long career in rock.
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