Aerosmith is set to return to the stage for two concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, bringing with them a roster of guest artists that reads like a who's who of rock history. The shows, dubbed "California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends," are scheduled for October 29 and November 1, marking a significant return for the band after a two-year break.
For Southern Californians, the return of Aerosmith to the iconic Hollywood Bowl is news worth noting, especially given the circumstances that led to their absence. The band had to halt touring more than two years ago due to a vocal injury sustained by lead singer Steven Tyler. This injury also led to the cancellation of their farewell tour in 2024, which had only just begun its 2023 launch. Since then, Tyler has made appearances at various benefit shows and awards ceremonies, but these Hollywood Bowl dates signal a more substantial return to performance for the band.
The announcement came with a bit of local flair earlier this week when the band teased the shows in a video. The clip featured Steven Tyler himself, along with photographer Ross Halfin, placing letters on the famous Hollywood Bowl marquee. In the video, Tyler confirmed the nature of the upcoming events, saying, "It’s `Aerosmith and Friends,’ Ross … Aerosmith and Friends!", as the dates October 29 and November 1 appeared on the marquee.
True to the "and Friends" part of the title, the concerts are slated to feature a formidable lineup of guest artists joining Aerosmith on stage. Attendees can expect to see performances from The Black Crowes, Run-DMC, Heart, Billy Idol, and Sammy Hagar. The guest list extends further with guitar legends Slash and Tom Morello, alongside Andrew Watt, and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith. Also scheduled to appear are Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan, country artist Eric Church, Alice in Chains members Jerry Cantrell and Mike Inez, and Marcus King. Rounding out the extensive list are Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, Train singer Pat Monahan, Steve Stevens, and Godsmack singer Sully Erna. Organizers have noted that the specific lineup of guest artists will vary by night, with final details to be announced closer to showtime. The possibility of additional artists and surprise guests has also been floated, ensuring each night will likely hold unique moments.
Aerosmith, originally formed in Boston in 1970, rose to become one of rock’s most enduring and successful acts. Their catalog includes widely recognized songs such as “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” “Janie’s Got a Gun,” and “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” Their long career and significant contributions to music were recognized with an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, and the band has earned four Grammy Awards over the years.
For those looking to secure tickets, a Citi cardmember presale is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday and will run until 10 a.m. on Friday. Following this, additional presales will take place leading up to the general public ticket sale, which is set to commence at 10 a.m. on Saturday. More information regarding the concerts and ticketing can be found through official channels provided by the organizers.
