Aerosmith Returns to Hollywood Bowl with All-Star Guests and Emotional Drummer Reunion

Key points

• Steven Tyler performed a six-song set including 'Dream On' and 'Walk This Way,' displaying strong vocal health despite his 2023 larynx injury.
• Johnny Depp joined Joe Perry for 'Train Kept A-Rollin', while Dave Grohl played drums for the first five songs of the main set.
• Founding drummer Joey Kramer, absent for over six years due to health issues, returned to the stage for the final number, drumming alongside tech John Douglas.
• Guest acts included Guns N' Roses, the Black Crowes, Heart, Billy Idol, and Eric Church, with many performing Aerosmith covers.
• Liv Tyler and Alicia Silverstone made surprise appearances, referencing the band's 1994 'Crazy' music video.

Background

Aerosmith had canceled their 'Peace Out' farewell tour in August 2024 after Tyler suffered a fractured larynx and vocal cord damage during a September 2023 concert. The band had not performed live since that injury. In October 2026, they announced two comeback concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, with tickets going on sale in early October. Earlier reports indicated Tyler's voice was in 'great' shape, and the band confirmed the return of founding drummer Joey Kramer before the shows.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today emphasized the celebratory nature of the event, highlighting the surprise appearance of Johnny Depp and the emotional reunion with Liv Tyler and Alicia Silverstone. They noted Tyler's energetic stage presence and the lack of obvious vocal distress. Variety focused on the technical and logistical aspects, questioning whether these two shows were the final performances in Aerosmith's history, especially after host Bill Burr jokingly declared them 'the final two shows.' Variety also detailed the drumming transition, noting that Dave Grohl played the first five songs before Joey Kramer took over for the finale, and critiqued Eric Church's performance of 'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing' as a 'miss.' Both outlets agreed that the band sounded in top form, but Variety was more skeptical about the future of the band, while USA Today focused on the nostalgia and star power of the event.

Why it matters

The return of Aerosmith to the stage after a three-year hiatus due to a serious vocal injury is a significant moment for rock music. The all-star guest lineup and the emotional reunion with founding members highlight the band's enduring legacy and the impact of their music on other artists. The event also raises questions about the future of the band, as it is unclear whether these two shows are a farewell or a prelude to further performances.

What to watch

Aerosmith is scheduled to perform a second night at the Hollywood Bowl on Nov. 1, 2026. It is unclear whether this will be the final performance or if the band will continue touring. The event is being produced by 724 Management and Blackbird Presents, with a flying camera present, suggesting that a documentary or TV special may be in the works.