Van Halen's '5150 (Expanded Edition)' Arriving March 27

Van Halen began a new chapter 40 years ago with the release of 5150, the first album featuring the lineup of Sammy Hagar, Eddie Van Halen, Alex Van Halen, and Michael Anthony. 5150 marked the band’s first #1 album with hits like “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” and “Best Of Both Worlds” and continued their streak of multi-Platinum releases.

Rhino will release 5150 (Expanded Edition) on March 27, just days after the album’s 40th anniversary. The LP/3CD/Blu-ray collection includes the 1986 album remastered directly from the original master tapes, overseen by the band’s longtime engineer Donn Landee. Additionally, an Amazon-exclusive green vinyl version will be available the same day.

The set also introduces more than 90 minutes of previously unreleased live recordings from the band’s August 27, 1986 concert at New Haven Veterans Memorial Coliseum in New Haven, Connecticut. These are joined by a selection of rare 7” single edits and extended 12” versions. The Blu-ray includes a new high-definition upgrade of Live Without a Net, Van Halen’s double-Platinum 1986 concert video that was also recorded that same August night in New Haven, along with promotional videos for “Dreams” and “Why Can’t This Be Love.” 

Pre-order 5150 (Expanded Edition) 

Standalone versions of 5150 featuring the remastered album and rarities will also be available the same day as a double CD set or a double LP on black vinyl. Ahead of the release, the live version of “Summer Nights” from the New Haven show is available today digitally, as well as featured in the HD remastered video below.

Van Halen recorded 5150 at Eddie Van Halen’s 5150 Studios in California beginning in late 1985. Released on March 24, 1986, the album debuted at the top of the Billboard 200, becoming the band’s first #1 release. It quickly became one of the best-selling albums of Van Halen’s career, earning 6x Platinum certification in the U.S., and was followed by the extensive and highly successful 5150 Tour. On stage, the new lineup focused on new material like “Love Walks In,” “Best Of Both Worlds,” and “Get Up,” while still delivering early VH favorites like “Panama” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love.”