Aerosmith Announces 'California, Dream On' Return to Hollywood Bowl with All-Star Guests

Key points

• Aerosmith will perform two shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 29 and November 1, 2026.
• The event is titled 'California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends' and features a rotating cast of guest artists.
• Confirmed guests include Slash, Duff McKagan, Chad Smith, Run DMC, the Black Crowes, Heart, Billy Idol, and Tom Morello.
• Drummer Joey Kramer is returning to the lineup, as confirmed by a new promotional photo released by the band.
• General ticket sales begin on October 10 at 10:00 AM Pacific Time, following presales for band members and Citi cardholders.
• The band has not announced additional tour dates beyond these two nights, though fans speculate about future shows in Boston or London.

Background

Aerosmith had not performed a full live show since September 2023, when they abruptly canceled their 'Peace Out...Farewell Tour' due to Steven Tyler's severe vocal cord injury. Although the band stated in 2024 that a full recovery was not possible, they have occasionally appeared together, including a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards and the release of a five-track EP with Yungblud in November 2025. This upcoming event marks their first major live reunion since that cancellation.

How outlets are covering it

Louder emphasizes the return of drummer Joey Kramer, noting he has not played with the band since their 2020 Las Vegas residency. Page Six highlights that a source confirmed Tyler's vocal cords are in 'great' shape, contrasting this with the band's 2024 statement that full recovery was not possible. The Los Angeles Times frames the event as a 'comeback' and notes that the guest lineup varies by night, with additional artists expected to be announced. All three sources agree on the dates, venue, and the presence of major guest stars like Slash and Run DMC.

Why it matters

This event signals a potential shift in Aerosmith's status from retired to active, at least for special engagements. The inclusion of a diverse roster of rock and hip-hop legends suggests a celebration of music history rather than a traditional tour. For fans, it offers a rare opportunity to see the band perform together in a live setting after a three-year hiatus from full concerts.

What to watch

General ticket sales begin on October 10. The band has stated that additional guest artists will be announced in the coming weeks. There is speculation among fans about potential future shows in other cities, but no official announcements have been made beyond the two Hollywood Bowl dates.