Car Show
Sammy Hagar to Headline "Rock the Block" Concert at Barrett-Jackson Auction
Sammy Hagar, a renowned rock star with an impressive career, is set to take the stage at the Barrett-Jackson car auction in early 2024. His presence at the event is sure to bring a wave of excitement and classic rock music to WestWorld of Scottsdale. With a history of amassing 25 platinum albums and selling over $50 million worth of music, Hagar is truly a force to be reckoned with in the rock music industry.

Experience the Iconic Sammy Hagar at Barrett-Jackson

Sammy Hagar's Ties to Scottsdale Car Show

Sammy Hagar, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen in 2007, is not only a rock star but also a car enthusiast. Last month, he joined Barrett-Jackson on the auction block to sell his 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari, setting a world auction record with a sale price of $4.7 million. This connection between Hagar and the Scottsdale car show adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming "Rock the Block" concert.

The fact that Hagar is deeply involved in the car world showcases his diverse interests and passion. It also highlights his status as a multi-talented individual who can captivate audiences with both his music and his love for automobiles.

The "Rock the Block" Concert and Its Significance

The second annual "Rock the Block" concert, scheduled to take place on Jan. 17, will fill WestWorld of Scottsdale with classic rock music. Tickets for this highly anticipated event will go on sale online this Friday, giving fans the opportunity to secure their seats and be part of this unforgettable musical experience. Hagar's performance is expected to be nothing short of extraordinary, as he is known for his energetic and engaging shows.

The concert serves as a highlight of Barrett-Jackson's 2025 Scottsdale Auction, which will run from Jan. 18-26 and feature approximately 1,800 collectible cars, trucks, and SUVs. It creates a unique synergy between the worlds of rock music and classic automobiles, attracting both music lovers and car enthusiasts.

Sammy Hagar's Busy Schedule in 2025

The Scottsdale concert is just one of many items on Hagar's busy schedule next year. Last week, he announced the launch of a second version of last year's "The Best of All Worlds Tour." Next year's tour will be a new residency show exclusively playing in Las Vegas at Park MGM from April 30 to May 17. He will be joined by fellow rock stars Michael Anthony, Joe Satriani, and Kenny Aronoff.

Hagar's decision to have a residency in Las Vegas allows him to focus on perfecting the sound and production of the show. It also gives the band the opportunity to experiment with the setlist every night, making each performance unique and exciting. This exclusive residency in Las Vegas is sure to attract fans from all over the world.

The Shift Towards Crossovers and SUVs: LA Auto Show Highlights
People's preferences have clearly shifted towards crossovers and SUVs, not just in America but across the globe. In the first half of 2023, utility vehicles claimed over 50% market share in Europe and China. This trend was on full display at the LA Auto Show, where nearly every new model unveiled was a crossover or SUV. But it's not just about the numbers; these vehicles are becoming more interesting and compelling than ever before.

Uncover the Excitement of Crossover and SUV Innovations

The Nissan Murano: A Design Marvel

The Nissan Murano has always been a visual standout, and the new fourth-gen model takes it to a whole new level. Its unique face with the slimmest headlights ever and the fender flare treatment gives it a distinct look. The criss-crossing D-pillar adds to its charm. Nissan's recent string of great-looking new models, like the Kicks, Armada, and Ariya, showcases their design prowess, and the Murano stands out as the best yet.

It's refreshing to see a crossover that doesn't follow the boring norm. The Murano's design is both bold and elegant, making it a head-turner on the road.

From the moment you lay eyes on the Murano, you can tell it's a vehicle that was designed with care and attention to detail. It's a true testament to Nissan's commitment to creating unique and appealing vehicles.

The Genesis GV60 Magma: Performance Redefined

Although a concept for now, the Genesis GV60 Magma show car looks production-ready. Styling changes such as new bumpers, wider fenders, and a big wing transform the already attractive GV60 into a mean machine. It's great to see Genesis taking performance seriously and pushing the boundaries.

The GV60 Magma's aggressive styling is a clear indication of its performance capabilities. It's a car that demands attention and is sure to turn heads on the street.

Genesis' attention to detail in the Magma concept is impressive. Every element, from the new bumpers to the wider fenders, contributes to the overall performance-oriented look of the vehicle.

The Cadillac Escalade IQ: Electric Grandeur

Cadillac may not have a large presence at the show, but the Escalade IQ makes a big impact. In person, it lives up to its reputation as a gigantic and impressive vehicle. The design details are fascinating, and it's a pleasure to see an electric version of the iconic Escalade.

The Escalade IQ's size is truly remarkable. It's as if Cadillac took the best of the traditional Escalade and added an electric twist to it.

The attention to detail in the Escalade IQ's design is evident, from the sleek lines to the unique lighting elements. It's a car that exudes luxury and innovation.

The Ioniq 5 XRT: Off-Road Style in the City

My colleague might have called it hideous, but I love the Ioniq 5's new XRT trim level. The textured black bumpers and fenders add a touch of silliness that works well. Paired with the red tow hooks and all-terrain tires, it's a unique look. And driving a Mustang Mach-E Rally has shown me how much fun a raised ride height and rear-biased powertrain can be in the city.

The Ioniq 5 XRT is a perfect example of how a crossover can combine off-road style with city driving capabilities. It's a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.

The combination of the textured bumpers and the all-terrain tires gives the Ioniq 5 XRT a rugged look that is sure to appeal to adventure-seeking drivers.

The Kia EV9 GT: Performance Meets Luxury

The Kia EV9 is already a top choice among large crossovers, and the 2026 EV9 GT version takes it up a notch. With 501 horsepower and an electronically controlled suspension, it offers a thrilling driving experience. The sport seats are some of the best in an SUV, adding to the overall luxury feel.

The EV9 GT's performance is truly impressive. It combines power and agility, making it a joy to drive on both the open road and in the city.

The attention to detail in the interior, especially the sport seats, shows Kia's commitment to providing a luxurious driving experience in their crossovers.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9: Sleek and Efficient

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a spectacular vehicle. Despite having more interior space than the Kia EV9, its boat-tail body and sloping roofline give it a super slippery drag coefficient of just 0.269. This helps achieve a range of over 300 miles in every trim level, regardless of the powertrain setup.

The Ioniq 9's design is both sleek and efficient. It's a car that looks good and performs well, making it a standout in the crossover segment.

Hyundai's attention to aerodynamics with the Ioniq 9 is evident. The low drag coefficient not only enhances performance but also contributes to better fuel efficiency.

The ID Buzz: A Design Sensation

Although not a traditional crossover, the ID Buzz has been the talk of the town. Designers, engineers, and PR folks from competitor brands couldn't stop gushing about its good looks and overall package. It's a vehicle that has captured the imagination of many.

The ID Buzz's design is truly unique and captivating. It stands out from the crowd and has become a symbol of modern design.

Everyone seems to have a soft spot for the ID Buzz. Its charm and appeal are undeniable, making it a must-see at the auto show.

The 2025 Kia EV6: A Refreshed Design

The 2025 Kia EV6 gets a much-needed refresh with a more interesting front end, cooler wheel designs, and a nicer interior. The addition of new welcome tech features makes it even more appealing. And with the Tesla-style NACS charger as standard, it's a step in the right direction.

The updated design of the EV6 is a welcome change. It gives the vehicle a more modern and dynamic look.

The inclusion of the Tesla-style NACS charger is a significant advantage for Kia EV6 owners. It makes charging more convenient and accessible.

The Hyundai Initium: A Design Preview

The Hyundai Initium directly previews the next-gen Nexo hydrogen fuel-cell crossover and influences other future Hyundai designs. While its back end may invite Aztek comparisons, it's clear that Hyundai has put a lot of thought into its design.

The Initium's design is a glimpse into Hyundai's future. It shows their willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of design.

The attention to detail in the Initium's surfacing and lighting elements is impressive. It gives the vehicle a unique and futuristic look.

The Ford Maverick Lobo: The Compact Street Truck

The Ford Maverick Lobo is back with a bang. With rally-style wheels and actual mechanical modifications to the powertrain and chassis, it looks plain awesome. It's a car that combines style and functionality.

The Maverick Lobo's appearance is sure to turn heads. The rally-style wheels add a touch of sportiness to the compact truck.

The mechanical modifications make the Maverick Lobo more than just a styling package. It's a vehicle that can handle both on and off-road adventures.

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The Resurgence of the Detroit Auto Show in 2025
The Detroit Auto Show is set to make a grand comeback in January 2025, marking the first time in half a decade that it will be held during the winter season. In anticipation of this event, the Auto Show officials have launched an exciting new campaign titled “My Drive. My City. My Show.” This campaign aims to pay homage to Detroit's rich automotive culture and honor the individuals who personify the city's automotive spirit.

Highlighting Detroit's Automotive Heritage

Detroit has long been synonymous with the automotive industry, and this campaign serves as a testament to its significance. Decker, the Lions' longest-serving player, shares his personal connection with the city through his 1968 Ford Bronco. It is a tribute to the number 68 on his jersey and a symbol of his deep-rooted attachment to Detroit. “This city holds a special place in my heart. My daughter was born here, and my son is about to arrive as well. It has truly become my home,” expressed Decker. “I have spent more years in Detroit than anywhere else during my career, and I am proud to contribute to this community that has been so generous to me.”

Detroit Tigers Play-by-Play Announcer Dan Dickerson

Dan Dickerson, the Detroit Tigers' play-by-play announcer, is another prominent figure featured in the campaign. His passion for the game and the city is evident as he adds to the vibrant tapestry of Detroit's automotive and sports culture. His voice echoes through the stadiums, bringing the excitement of baseball to the fans.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan

Mayor Mike Duggan plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Detroit. His leadership and efforts in promoting the city's growth and development are integral to its continued success. The Detroit Auto Show provides an opportunity for him to showcase the city's potential and attract attention from around the world.

NBA Star Jalen Rose

Jalen Rose, a renowned NBA star, also joins the campaign, bringing his star power and influence to the forefront. His connection with Detroit goes beyond the basketball court, as he is deeply invested in the city's well-being. His presence adds a new dimension to the campaign, highlighting the diverse talents and personalities that make Detroit unique.The organizers are encouraging people to share their own stories as well. By visiting the Detroit Auto Show website, individuals can fill out a questionnaire and express what they love about Detroit, the significance of the auto industry to them, their favorite part of the Detroit Auto Show, and why they are optimistic about the future of the auto industry.The Detroit Auto Show will return to Huntington Place starting on January 10 with the annual Charity Preview. Flo Rida will headline this event, adding an extra touch of excitement. The full schedule is as follows:Media Day on Friday, January 10; Charity Preview on Friday, January 10; Public Show from Saturday, January 11 through Monday, January 20; Industry Days and AutoMobili-D on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16; Mobility Global Forum on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16; and Future Leaders Forum on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16.Detroit's automotive legacy continues to thrive, and the Detroit Auto Show is a shining example of its enduring appeal. It brings together people from all walks of life, celebrating the city's spirit and the future of the auto industry.
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