Van Halen’s ‘5150’ Album to Receive Expanded Edition

Van Halen’s album ‘5150’ marked a significant moment in the band’s history as they transitioned to a new era with Sammy Hagar replacing David Lee Roth. Despite their previous success, the band had never achieved a #1 album until the release of ‘5150’ in 1986, which topped the charts in the United States with hits like “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” and “Best Of Both Worlds.”

To commemorate the album’s 40th anniversary, Rhino Records is set to release the ‘5150 Expanded Edition’ on March 27, 2026. This special collection includes the remastered album directly from the original master tapes, with the process overseen by the band’s longtime engineer Donn Landee. Additionally, the set features over 90 minutes of previously unreleased live recordings from Van Halen’s 1986 concert at the New Haven Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The package also includes a selection of rare single edits and extended versions, as well as a Blu-ray with a high-definition upgrade of ‘Live Without a Net’ and promotional videos for “Dreams” and “Why Can’t This Be Love.”

Recorded at Eddie Van Halen’s 5150 Studios in California and released in 1986, the album was an instant hit, debuting at the top of the Billboard 200 chart. ‘5150’ went on to become one of the band’s best-selling albums, achieving 6x Platinum certification in the U.S. and launching the successful 5150 Tour. The new lineup showcased fresh tracks like “Love Walks In,” “Best Of Both Worlds,” and “Get Up” while still delivering beloved Van Halen classics such as “Panama” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love.”

Fans can look forward to a variety of formats for the ‘5150 Expanded Edition.’ Along with the LP, 3-CD, and Blu-ray set, standalone versions featuring the remastered album and additional content will also be available. The collection offers a comprehensive look at this pivotal moment in Van Halen’s career and captures the energy and excitement of their live performances from that era.