Rock community icons often cross paths in unexpected ways, but few friendships have carried as much warmth and humor as the bond between former Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar and Bob Weir, co-founder of the Grateful Dead. Following the news of Weir’s death at age 78 on January 10, 2026, Hagar took to social media to share a deeply personal tribute that blended affection, wit, and genuine loss.
Hagar, who was born just two days before Weir in October 1947, recalled a pact the two had made years earlier: that they would both live to be 100 years old, then get together to decide what came next. In his tribute, Hagar joked that his friend was already “way past 100” when they first met, a playful indication of Weir’s wisdom and seasoned presence in his life.
“One of the last things I said to Bob was, ‘Hey, I thought we had a deal,’” Hagar wrote — a line that encapsulated both his affection for Weir and the unexpected nature of his passing.
Although their musical worlds were different — Hagar rooted in hard rock and Weir in the jam-band tradition — the two developed a friendship that survived decades and geographical scenes. Hagar’s message reflected that unique bond: affectionate, irreverent, full of mutual respect.
He went on to describe Weir with a mix of sentiment and humor, calling him a “wise old soul” with a knack for telling memorable sayings that could simplify even the most complex conversations. Hagar’s tribute wasn’t just about mourning; it was about acknowledging the joy and laughter they shared over the years.
In a series of hashtagged reflections, Hagar asked rhetorically:
- “Am I gonna miss Bob? #YouBet”
- “Did I love Bob like a brother? #Yup”
- “Was Bob a wonderful friend to have? #FinA”*
- “Did Bob and I have some good fun together? #MoreFunThanAFroginAGlassOfMilk”
The unabashed, playful sequencing of Hagar’s thoughts highlighted how much he valued his friend both personally and professionally.
Hagar and Weir’s friendship went beyond mere words. In 2022, Weir joined Hagar on stage during a stop in Nashville on Hagar’s “Crazy Times” tour — a memorable night where they performed classics together, including the Grateful Dead’s “Not Fade Away” and Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll.” That performance was emblematic of their mutual regard and willingness to celebrate each other’s music.
As rock fans and fellow musicians continue to digest the news of Weir’s passing, Hagar’s tribute stands out as both sincere and characteristically candid — a reminder that at the heart of even the biggest careers are real friendships and shared moments.
Weir’s death has prompted an outpouring of memories from artists in multiple genres, each highlighting his influence, kindness, and unique role in American music. From jam-band collaborators to country stars and fellow rock icons, many have noted how Weir’s presence extended far beyond his unmistakable guitar work.
Hagar’s reflection — both humorous and heartfelt — captures that broader sentiment: not just the loss of a great musician, but the passing of a beloved friend whose impact resonated on and offstage.
