Aerosmith Returns to Hollywood Bowl for California, Dream On Concert

Aerosmith returned to the stage at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on Oct. 29 for the California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends event. The concert was the band's first extended concert in more than three years and included the return of founding drummer Joey Kramer. The evening began with a tribute to Aerosmith's catalog, with artists from across the rock spectrum taking turns at the microphone.

Godsmack frontman Sully Erna opened the show with "Make It" and "Lightning Strikes." Heart performed "Never Loved a Man" and "Janie's Got a Gun." Country star Eric Church performed "Rag Doll" and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing." The house band was led by musical director Don Was, with guitarist Nuno Bettencourt and a rhythm section of Kenny Aronoff, Chad Smith and Mike Inez.

Liv Tyler and Alicia Silverstone introduced the band, and the group launched into "Toys in the Attic" with Dave Grohl behind the drums. Steven Tyler performed "Dream On" seated at a white grand piano. Johnny Depp joined Joe Perry for "The Train Kept A-Rollin'."

Joey Kramer returned to the drum kit for his first performance with Aerosmith since 2020, sharing drums with John Douglas on the final song "Walk This Way." Aerosmith is scheduled to return to the Bowl on Nov. 1 for a second California, Dream On: Aerosmith & Friends concert. The performance was filmed for an as-yet-unannounced future usage.