Sammy Hagar has shared an emotional tribute to the devoted fan who bestowed upon him his iconic nickname, the Red Rocker. This heartfelt acknowledgment celebrates not only their connection but also the inception of a lasting legacy that has defined Hagar’s musical journey.

Initially, Hagar found success with the band Montrose, but after a brief tenure, he initiated a solo career that would change his life. It was during this pivotal time that he met a fan named John Pruner, a meeting that would leave a significant mark on Hagar’s identity.

Reflecting on the early days, Hagar recounted, “In 1976, I had just released the red album,” referencing his self-titled LP. “During one of my first concerts in Seattle, Washington, I was supporting that record with ‘Red’ as the lead single. The following morning, while checking out of my hotel, John Pruner, the gentleman depicted in these photos, approached me and asked for an autograph on the newspaper review of my concert. He requested that I sign it, ‘The Red Rocker.’ That moment marked the inception of my journey as the Red Rocker.”

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Neither Hagar nor Pruner could have predicted that the Red Rocker moniker would endure through the years. Over time, Hagar embraced this nickname so fully that it transformed into a brand of its own, with merchandise such as shirts, hats, and even beer proudly displaying the title. Despite his fame and success, Hagar has always held onto the memory of the fan who first gave him this meaningful name.

Celebrating a Lifelong Bond with a Dedicated Super-Fan

In his heartfelt tribute, Hagar remarked, “John became perhaps the first redhead before the fans themselves embraced the redhead identity.” He reminisced about how John would travel across the country, attending his shows and establishing a close friendship. “I got to know him well. At a birthday bash in Cabo San Lucas, he revealed that he had paid to see over 100 shows! I told him, ‘You will never pay to see me again’ and presented him with a golden lifetime all-access pass. That was well over 100 shows ago!”

Hagar shared that Pruner had been facing health challenges for more than a decade. Nonetheless, the devoted super-fan continued to attend shows, often using a wheelchair, yet he always found a way to be there. Hagar made it a point to ensure that there was always a spot for him, whether on the side of the stage or in a special area where he could enjoy the performance.

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“Sadly, we lost the original number one redhead just a couple of nights ago,” announced the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. “We will miss you, John Pruner, but the show will go on without you. I know you wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Looking ahead, Hagar is set to perform at the Stagecoach festival in Indio, California in April. Following that, he will kick off his Best of All Worlds residency in Las Vegas on May 2, continuing to share his music and passion with fans around the world.