David Lee Roth Revitalizes Classics on 2026 Tour – ‘Little Dreamer’ Makes a Triumphant Return

David Lee Roth’s highly anticipated 2026 tour began with a thrilling performance in Spokane, Washington, on April 16th, immediately captivating fans with a dynamic setlist and a surprising throwback. Diamond Dave, backed by his ever-expanding band – now boasting five backing vocalists – launched into a high-energy opening sequence featuring iconic Van Halen hits like “Panama,” “Drop Dead Legs,” and “Romeo Delight.” But it was the inclusion of a deeper cut that truly sparked excitement.

A Rare Rendition of ‘Little Dreamer’

Roth surprised the audience by performing “Little Dreamer,” a captivating semi-ballad from Van Halen’s 1978 debut album. According to SetList.fm, this marked the first time Roth has performed the song as a solo artist since 2003. While he played it with Van Halen as recently as 2008, its return to his solo setlist was a welcome treat for long-time fans. The song provided a welcome change of pace, showcasing Roth’s vocal range and the band’s musical versatility.

Unexpected Cover & Tour Details

The surprises didn’t stop there. Reports indicate Roth also delivered a cover of Billy Joel’s classic, “New York State of Mind.” While video footage is still being sought, the prospect of this pairing has generated considerable buzz. It’s a bold move that could either be a spectacular success or a memorable misstep – only time will tell!

Roth’s tour, playfully titled “Don’t Love Me, Rent Me,” is scheduled to continue with a performance in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday, April 18th, and is currently slated to conclude on June 20th in Milwaukee. Fans can find the complete tour schedule on David Lee Roth’s official website.

Spokane Setlist (April 16, 2026)

• 1. “Panama”
• 2. “Drop Dead Legs”
• 3. “Romeo Delight”
• 4. “Little Dreamer”
• 5. Blues (acoustic)
• 6. “I’m the One”
• 7. “Dance the Night Away”
• 8. “Ice Cream Man”
• 9. “You Really Got Me”
• 10. “Jamie’s Cryin'”
• 11. “Unchained”
• 12. “New York State of Mind” (Billy Joel cover)
• 13. “Mean Street”
• 14. “Ain’t Talkin’ ’bout Love”
• 15. “Hot for Teacher”
• 16. “Everybody Wants Some!!”
• 17. “Jump”

Setlist information via SetList.fm

Adding to the excitement, Roth also recently shared the stage with Teddy Swims at Coachella, hinting at potential future collaborations. The 2026 tour promises to be a celebration of Roth’s legendary career, filled with energy, surprises, and a renewed appreciation for his iconic catalog.

Image Credit: Matthew Wilkening