HAGAR, SAMMY looking back P-13413

The Red Rocker’s Geffen Hits: Sammy Hagar’s ‘Looking Back’ (P-13413)

Today’s entry highlights a pivotal compilation released just as Sammy Hagar was ascending to the biggest rock stage in the world. We are examining the 1986 Japanese Promo Sample pressing of Looking Back, released on Geffen Records with the catalog number P-13413.

Closing the Chapter on the Solo Years

Released on December 21, 1986, this compilation served as a celebration of Hagar’s successful solo tenure with Geffen Records, arriving shortly after he had joined Van Halen. It collects the essential tracks from his three Geffen studio albums: Standing Hampton, Three Lock Box, and VOA. The tracklist is a definitive collection of high-energy American rock, featuring the massive anthem “I Can’t Drive 55,” the cult classic “Heavy Metal” (from the animated film soundtrack), and “There’s Only One Way To Rock,” a song that would later become a live staple during his tours with Van Halen. It also includes the power ballad “I’ll Fall In Love Again.”

Japanese Promo Edition

This specific copy is a Promo Sample manufactured by Warner-Pioneer Corporation. These promotional copies are highly sought after for their scarcity and often superior audio quality. The vinyl disc labels distinguish this from the retail version, bearing the Japanese characters for “Sample (Not For Sale)” on the spindle area. Additionally, a “Sample” sticker is affixed to the back cover, verifying its status as an industry distribution copy.

Complete Packaging

Despite some database entries suggesting otherwise, this specific copy is complete with the Obi strip, adding significantly to its collector appeal. It also includes a lyric insert, providing a perfect snapshot of the Red Rocker’s career right before he helped define the sound of late-80s arena rock.