On New Year’s Eve, the legendary rockers Cheap Trick will ignite the Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2026, bringing five decades of classic hits and a fresh new album to coast-to-coast listeners.
Band Legacy
Originating from Illinois, Cheap Trick has become a staple of rock music since the 1970s. The band’s first record was recorded in ’76 and released in 1977, a milestone that marks the beginning of a long-standing career. Over five decades, they have performed more than 6,000 live shows worldwide. Their touring schedule has remained almost constant, keeping their music alive for new generations. The group’s dedication to live performance is matched by a passion for studio work. They have produced 21 albums, a testament to their enduring creativity.
Hits and Hall of Fame
Cheap Trick’s catalog includes iconic hits such as “I Want You to Want Me,” “Dream Police,” “The Flame,” and “Surrender.” In 2016, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their impact on the music industry. The Hall of Fame induction followed decades of chart success and critical acclaim. Their songs continue to resonate with fans across the globe. The band’s influence is evident in the many artists who cite them as an inspiration. Their legacy is celebrated during events like the Coast-to-Coast Countdown.
Sound Philosophy
When asked to describe their sound, bassist Tom Petersson said, “I don’t know how I describe it, but we really do records. We do songs that we would like to hear ourselves. So it’s the stuff that we think is good, and then we do it and we don’t know what people are going to think. Probably, they’re not going to think that much of it. But at least we like it and we play it for our friends and people that are close to us, and, you know, beyond that, you don’t have any control over it. But to me, the best thing that we do is recording because that lasts for eternity.” This quote underscores their commitment to authenticity and creative freedom. Petersson’s words highlight the band’s focus on music rather than commercial expectations. The emphasis on recording aligns with their long history of producing quality albums. Their studio work remains a core part of their identity. The band’s philosophy is evident in every track they release.
Studio and Touring
Lead vocalist Robin Zander said, “We like both, you know, we’re all songwriters and, you know, we are musicians and we love being in the studio and laying it down and making records. And you know, we’ve got 21 records. That’s a lot.” Zander’s remarks reflect the band’s dual focus on songwriting and production. Their studio sessions are as much a creative outlet as they are a means to deliver music to fans. The band’s touring schedule complements their studio work, allowing them to connect with audiences worldwide. Their live performances are known for high energy and tight musicianship. Fans appreciate the blend of polished recordings and dynamic stage presence. This balance has helped Cheap Trick maintain relevance across generations.
Lead Vocalist Perspective
The most recent record, All Washed Up, was released in November and received positive reviews. Zander called it “the best music you’ve ever heard.” He also explained that the album’s title came from his own remark, “I thought we were all washed up.” Petersson noted that when the album first came out, there were only two songs released. Rick Nielson added, “Yeah. And then we had great reviews, which I was surprised by.” He went on to say, “I don’t know. It’s like, sometimes if you, like I said before, if you think you’re cool, if you tell people you’re cool, you probably are. If here’s the greatest song you have, then people will write about it. Oh, God, that’s not that good. But it’s like, so we just, you know, we don’t we don’t wait for the review. We review ourselves.” These comments illustrate the band’s humility and confidence in their work. They also reveal the unexpected enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. The album’s reception has reinforced the band’s relevance in modern rock.
Fan Connection
Fans’ reaction to the new music has been overwhelmingly positive. Zander remarked, “It’s pretty fulfilling, really. I mean, to know that they know the stuff that you’ve written over the years and, we’ve got the best fans in the world. I mean, we really do. They do know all the words to all the songs.” He added that the fans are “the best looking.” The band’s connection with its audience is a key part of its longevity. The ability to recall lyrics and melodies from decades ago demonstrates the lasting impact of their catalog. This relationship fuels the band’s continued touring and recording efforts. It also sets the stage for their upcoming performances during the countdown.
Vegas History
Cheap Trick will make two stops in Las Vegas for their upcoming tour on April 17 and April 18 at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. The band has performed in the Entertainment Capital of the World before, and their first Vegas show was notable because “they wouldn’t, they wouldn’t put our name on the marquee because it was too filthy. Yeah. Imagine that. Yeah.” Zander added, “They wouldn’t put Cheap Trick on the marquee because they thought it commented on prostitution.” These anecdotes highlight the band’s history with the city. Their Vegas appearances continue to draw crowds eager for high-energy performances. The band’s schedule also includes other major venues across the country. They plan to celebrate their 50-year anniversary during the tour, with a special set list commemorating their early work.
Tour Details
Rick Nielson said, “We have a big tour coming up. We’re going to have a big tour coming up all the time.” Zander noted that the tour is part of a broader celebration of their 50-year legacy. The band’s touring schedule includes dates in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. Fans can also catch them in smaller venues that showcase the band’s raw energy. The tour’s set list features a mix of classic hits and newer material. The band’s performance at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas on April 17 and 18 will be a highlight for many. The tour’s promotion includes exclusive merchandise and meet-and-greet opportunities.
Upcoming Tour Stops
- Las Vegas – The Venetian Resort – April 17 & 18
Resolutions and Countdown
Don’t give up and don’t die,” Rick Nielson said, summarizing the band’s mantra after all these years. Drummer Daxx Nielson added that his only resolution for the new year is “Just to keep playing with these guys and having fun and trying to do the best we can.” The band’s commitment to perseverance is evident in their longevity. The Coast-to-Coast Countdown to 2026 will feature Cheap Trick alongside Foreigner, Styx, Mac McAnally, Kevin Cronin Band, UB-40, The Marshall Tucker Band, 38 Special, and Bri Bagwell. The show will stream on the free CTV app for participating markets, with a pre-show beginning at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET. Viewers can also stream live on the website for exclusive bonus content. The countdown promises a night of classic rock and celebration of music history.
