Sammy Hagar’s 2026 Best of All Worlds Tour will feature Toto’s Greg Phillinganes on keyboards, replacing Rai Thistlethwayte, who joined Toto. The rock icon also reveals how his Las Vegas residency is helping him extend his touring career.
Rock legend Sammy Hagar is making waves ahead of his 2026 Best of All Worlds Tour with a significant lineup change. The 78-year-old icon has announced that Greg Phillinganes, the renowned keyboardist from Toto, will replace Rai Thistlethwayte for the upcoming tour. This swap comes as Thistlethwayte has joined Toto, creating a unique exchange between the two rock powerhouses.
The tour, scheduled for June 2026, will feature stops in Missouri, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Maryland. Hagar will be joined on stage by Michael Anthony, Joe Satriani, and Kenny Aronoff, promising an unforgettable experience for fans.
The Story Behind the Lineup Change
Hagar revealed the reason for the change in the comments section of his January 14 Instagram post, where he announced the tour dates. A fan asked, “What happened to Rai?” to which Hagar responded, “He joined Toto, so we swapped keyboard players.” This exchange highlights the camaraderie and fluidity within the rock music community, where musicians often collaborate and support each other’s projects.
Phillinganes, known for his work with Toto and other legendary artists, brings a wealth of experience to Hagar’s tour. His addition is expected to add a new dimension to the live performances, blending his signature style with Hagar’s classic rock sound.
How Las Vegas Residency Is Extending Hagar’s Touring Career
Hagar, who has a Las Vegas residency with upcoming shows in March and September 2026, recently shared how this residency has been a game-changer for his career. In a December 2025 interview with CNN, he described the residency as “a dream come true for an elderly rock star that still wants to perform.”
The residency allows Hagar to avoid the grueling aspects of touring, such as constant travel and irregular schedules. “It’s the packing up and moving into hotels, travel, travel, travel, running around, you get to the show late. Some days you don’t even have a good meal,” he explained. In contrast, the residency provides him with “the best rooms on the planet” and “great food,” ensuring he is well-rested and energized.
This setup has not only improved his quality of life but also extended his ability to tour. “To me, it’s a dream come true. It’s extending my touring life. Otherwise, I don’t know if I’d go on tour again, and do a major tour,” Hagar admitted. The residency has given him the stamina to continue performing at a high level, much to the delight of his fans.
Why This Tour Matters for Fans
The 2026 Best of All Worlds Tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of Hagar’s enduring legacy and his ability to adapt and evolve. The lineup change, featuring Phillinganes, adds a fresh dynamic to the performances, while Hagar’s residency ensures he brings his best to every show.
For fans, this tour is an opportunity to witness a rock legend in action, supported by a lineup of equally talented musicians. It’s a testament to Hagar’s passion for music and his commitment to delivering unforgettable live experiences.
As Hagar continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of what it means to be a rock star at 78, his 2026 tour is set to be a highlight of the year for music lovers everywhere.
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