Michael Schenker News and Tour Information

Michael Schenker News and Tour Information
Updated on 12/19/2025

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Michael Schenker Tour Dates Message to People of Japan

Your Messages thank you guys!!!!!

[02/27/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Heerlen, Netherlands Show Photo Gallery: Frank Wiesman has contributed a beautiful photo gallery from Michael Schenker's February 26, 2026 show at Parkstad Limburg Theater in Heerlen, Netherlands. Although there is no written report this time, the stunning live shots perfectly capture the atmosphere, lighting, and energy of the evening. Many thanks to Frank for sharing these superb images with us.

[02/25/2026 update No.3]
Michael Schenker Tilburg Show Photos & Videos: Rob Hanhart has contributed photos and two beautifully filmed videos from Michael Schenker's February 24, 2026 show at 013 in Tilburg, Netherlands. The videos in particular capture the atmosphere and stage lighting exceptionally well. Many thanks to Rob for sharing his excellent footage and photo set with us.

[02/25/2026 update No.2]
Michael Schenker Hamburg Show Report: Jigal Beez has contributed a second concert report from Michael Schenker's Hamburg, Germany show at Grose Freiheit 36 on February 22, 2026. Following his Bremen review, Jigal describes the electric atmosphere in St. Pauli, the long queue outside the venue, and the powerful return to Michael's UFO classics. He also shares his thoughts on the sound differences compared to Bremen and reflects on Schenker's timeless authority and melodic mastery at age 71. Many thanks to Jigal for once again sharing his impressions and photo with us.

[02/25/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Bremen Show Report: Jigal Beez has contributed his concert report from Michael Schenker's Bremen, Germany show on February 19, 2026. Jigal shares his personal reflections from Michael Schenker's return to his hometown of Bremen, recalling his first MSG experience back in 1988 and the surprise of seeing familiar faces like Bodo Schopf and Steve Mann once again on stage. He also comments on the My Years with UFO tour concept, the performance of R.D. Liapakis, and the emotional closing tribute to Pete Way and Paul Raymond.

[02/23/2026 update No.2]
Michael Schenker Celebrates the UFO Era - Bremen Review: Many thanks to Jigal for sharing a local newspaper review from Bremen, Germany, covering Michael Schenker's February 19 performance at the sold-out Modernes.

Jigal wrote:
"Thank you for keeping me updated with Schenker news for decades now. I really do appreciate all the energy and enthusiasm you put into our common passion."

For many years, local newspapers rarely mentioned Michael Schenker, but this time the Bremen press not only announced the concert on the day of the show, they also published a substantial follow-up review two days later.

The article - originally published in a Bremen local newspaper in February 2026 - praises Schenker as one of hard rock's enduring elite guitarists. The review focuses on the set list drawn strictly from his 1973-1978 UFO years and highlights his remarkably clear guitar tone achieved with minimal effects.

Special mention is made of the intimate club atmosphere, allowing the audience to closely observe his precise fretwork, and of the epic performance of "Rock Bottom," described as a dramatic and electrifying climax of the evening.

The journalist also reflects on Schenker's legacy with UFO, referencing the classic live album "Strangers in the Night," and notes how he continues to command the stage with authority and finesse.

It is always encouraging to see serious mainstream press recognition of Michael Schenker's artistry after so many years of limited coverage in local media.

Thank you again, Jigal, for sharing the clippings and for your continued passion and support.

[02/23/2026 update]
Eric Grönwall Shares Budokan Experience Video Featuring Michael Schenker: Swedish singer Eric Grönwall has shared a new episode documenting his unforgettable experience performing at the legendary Nippon Budokan in Tokyo alongside Michael Schenker. The video captures backstage moments, his first reaction before stepping onto the historic stage, and includes some live performance footage from the sold-out show.

In the episode, Eric expresses his deep respect for Budokan - a venue that has hosted many of the world's greatest artists - and also shares his appreciation for Japan, occasionally introducing Japanese products and reflecting his affection for the country. All episodes include English subtitles, making it easy for international viewers to follow.

Subscribe for more weekly episodes:
The Gronwalls YouTube Channel

[02/13/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Group - 6 Disc CD/DVD Box Set Announced: Chrysalis Records has officially announced a 6-disc box set edition of "Live & Ready: The Best of MSG Live 1980-1984". The release is scheduled for April 3, 2026 and will consist of five live CDs and one DVD.

The announcement was made via Chrysalis Records' official YouTube channel, clearly describing the release as a "6-disc set". The same promotional video has been shared by Michael Schenker on his official Facebook page.

This CD/DVD edition is separate from the Record Store Day vinyl release (scheduled for April 18, 2026).

According to reports from GiveToRock.com and Japanese music news site amass.jp, the box set will include a booklet featuring photos and liner notes documenting the band's early live years.

CD1: Manchester Apollo, Manchester - 30th September 1980
Armed And Ready
Cry For The Nations
Victim Of Illusion
Natural Thing
Feels Like A Good Thing
Into The Arena
Looking Out From Nowhere
Rock Bottom
Tales Of Mystery
Lost Horizons
Shoot Shoot
Doctor Doctor
Lights Out

CD2: Nippon Budokan, Tokyo - 12th August 1981
Introduction
Armed And Ready
Cry For The Nations
Attack Of The Mad Axeman
But I Want More
Victim Of Illusion
Into The Arena

CD3: Nippon Budokan, Tokyo - 12th August 1981
On And On
Never Trust A Stranger
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Tales Of Mystery
Cozy Powell Drum Solo
Courvoisier Concerto
Lost Horizons
Doctor Doctor
Are You Ready To Rock

CD4: Hammersmith Odeon, London - 22nd-23rd October 1983
Captain Nemo
Rock My Nights Away
Ready To Rock
Cry For The Nations
Rock You To The Ground
Attack Of The Mad Axeman
Into The Arena
Courvoisier Concerto
Rock Will Never Die
Desert Song
I'm Gonna Make You Mine
Red Sky
Looking For Love
Armed And Ready
Still Love That Little Devil
Doctor Doctor
Thank You

CD5: Seibu Stadium, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan - 11th-12th August 1984
Captain Nemo
Rock My Nights Away
Cry For The Nations
On And On
Lipstick Traces
Bijou Pleasurette
Into The Arena
Courvoisier Concerto
Lost Horizons
I'm Gonna Make You Mine
Armed And Ready
Doctor Doctor

DVD: Hammersmith Odeon 1983 / Seibu Stadium 1984 (Selected Live Footage)
Live performance footage from the above concerts.

Official Promotional Video (Chrysalis Records YouTube):

Michael Schenker Facebook Post:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1667240884682224

Further Reading:
GiveToRock.com Article
amass.jp Japanese News Report

[02/02/2026 update No.3]
Michael Schenker 2026 European Tour Second Leg & Festival Appearance Update:
According to the Michael Schenker Official Website, several dates of the 2026 European Tour Second Leg have been updated. As a result, previously listed show information has been revised, and newly confirmed dates in Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden have been added.

Mon	03/09/26	Vilnius, Lithuania	Compensa Koncertų Salė
Tue	03/10/26	Tallinn, Estonia	Helitehas
Wed	03/11/26	Helsinki, Finland	Kulttuuritalo
Thu	03/12/26	Tampere, Finland	Tampere-talo
Fri	03/13/26	Jyväskylä, Finland	Paviljonki
Sat	03/21/26	Falun, Sweden	Magasinet

In addition, Michael Schenker has been confirmed to appear at the Sound Of The Ages Festival in Poland. According to the official festival flyer, this appearance will feature the My Years With UFO set.

Sat

08/22/26

Ćmielów, Poland

Sound Of The Ages Festival

[02/05/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Group Classic Live Recordings to Be Released for Record Store Day 2026
Chrysalis Records have announced the release of a new live compilation LP, Live & Ready: The Best of MSG Live 1980 - 1984, scheduled for Record Store Day in April 2026.

According to an official post by Michael Schenker, the album will be issued on splatter vinyl and released as part of Record Store Day. Fans are encouraged to visit their local record stores on April 18 to secure a copy, as availability will be limited.

This release compiles standout live performances from the formative years of the Michael Schenker Group, spanning shows between 1980 and 1984. The material draws from renowned concerts including Manchester Apollo (1980), Nippon Budokan in Tokyo (1981), Hammersmith Odeon in London (1983), and Seibu Stadium in Tokyo (1984). Several of these performances have not previously been available on vinyl.

The audio has been newly remastered at AIR Mastering, aiming to preserve the authenticity and raw energy of the original recordings while delivering maximum impact. Pressed on high-quality vinyl and presented in premium packaging, this release is positioned as a collector-oriented title for both long-time MSG fans and vinyl enthusiasts.

Live & Ready: The Best of MSG Live 1980 - 1984
LP / Splatter Vinyl / Record Store Day Exclusive
Remastered at AIR Mastering
See also MSG Tourdate Page for the latest updates.

[02/01/2026 update No.2]
Michael Schenker Japan Tour Merchandise – Post-Show Online Sales Announced: UDO has announced post-show online sales of official merchandise originally sold at Michael Schenker’s recent Japan tour. The online sales are scheduled to begin on February 6, 2026, at 12:00 (JST), via the UDO official shop. At this time, availability of international shipping has not been confirmed. This announcement serves as an archival follow-up to the conclusion of the 2026 Japan tour and may be of interest to collectors and fans who attended the shows.

[02/02/2026 update]
Eric Gronwall Backstage Interview Before Budokan Show: Below is a backstage interview with Michael Schenker Group vocalist Erik Gronwall conducted by Roppongi Rocks prior to the Budokan show. The interview captures Erik's excitement about performing at the legendary venue and his reflections on his own musical journey, including activities outside of MSG. You can watch the full interview below:

Source: Roppongi Rocks interview with Erik Gronwall published on roppongirocks.com

[02/01/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Osaka Show Photo Report: Doris Kloß has contributed a new photo report from Michael Schenker's Osaka, Japan show at Festival Hall on January 29, 2026. Doris attended all three Japan shows on this tour together with her friend Bernd, and it was a real pleasure to meet both of them in person during the three days in Tokyo. Many thanks to Doris for sharing her photos and for contributing this report to the site.

[01/31/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Explains His 1970s-Inspired Stage Outfit in Japan: Michael Schenker has shared a message on his official Facebook page explaining the reason behind his distinctive stage outfit during the recent Japan shows.

In his post, Michael explains that the outfit was chosen to recreate the way he looked in the 1970s, a period when he never had the opportunity to tour Japan. The recent shows therefore became a way to visually and musically reconnect with that era for Japanese fans.

Michael also expressed his gratitude to Erik Gronwall, Derek Sherinian, Brian Tichy, Barry Sparks, and Michael Voss for their performances on the tour, as well as to Michael Amott for joining the band on stage. Additional thanks were extended to UDO Artists, Dragon Productions, earMUSIC, Ward Records, and all parties involved in making the Japan shows possible.

[01/30/2026 update No.2]
Michael Schenker Osaka Show Report: Simon Gunzinger has contributed a new concert report from Michael Schenker's Osaka, Japan show at Festival Hall on January 29, 2026. Simon and Kamilla attended all three Japan shows on this tour and rate the Osaka performance as the best of the three. The review also describes a charming on-stage mishap involving Erik Grönwall and Michael Voss, which brought laughter to both the band and the audience. It was also great to finally meet Simon and Kamilla in person during the two Tokyo shows. Many thanks to Simon for sharing his review and photos with us.

[01/27/2026 update]
Michael Schenker: Hand-Signed LPs Announced to Commemorate Japan Tour: According to a post by Ward Records, a surprise emergency release of hand-signed vinyl editions has been announced to celebrate Michael Schenker's Japan tour.

The following titles were made available in strictly limited quantities, each personally signed by Michael Schenker for Japanese fans:

• Don't Sell Your Soul
Hand-signed / Limited Edition Heavyweight LP

• My Years With UFO
Hand-signed / Limited Edition 180g 2LP

At the time of writing, "My Years With UFO" is already listed as sold out via the official Ward Records sales page, while "Don't Sell Your Soul" remains available in limited numbers. Fans interested in securing a copy are strongly advised to place their orders as soon as possible.

For details and availability, please refer to the official Ward Records listing:
https://x.gd/s9f3o

Source: Ward Records (Facebook)
Ward Records Official Facebook Post

[01/29/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Budokan Show Report Added: A new concert report from the January 28, 2026 performance at Budokan, Tokyo has been added. This historic show marked Michael Schenker's first appearance at Budokan in 38 years and featured a packed venue, an outstanding performance, and a special guest appearance by Michael Amott on the final song. The full review, lineup, and complete setlist are available here.

[01/27/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Tokyo Show Report: My concert report from the opening night of the Japanese leg of the My Years with UFO tour at NHK Hall, Tokyo, has been uploaded. Michael Schenker delivered a flawless performance, playing exclusively his white Gibson Flying V throughout the night. The specially assembled Japanese lineup sounded exceptionally tight, with strong solo highlights from Brian Tichy, Derek Sherinian, and Barry Sparks. Michael Voss shared guitar duties and also handled lead vocals on selected songs. While the setlist largely followed the European and U.S. shows, the performance itself was powerful and confident.

[01/25/2026 update No.2]
NAMM 2026 Exhibit Shows Michael Schenker Flying V Display; Limited Edition Model Rumored: At the NAMM 2026 show in Anaheim, California, footage from the event clearly shows a Flying V guitar associated with Michael Schenker on display at the Gibson booth. In a video of the show, the instrument can be seen in the Gibson exhibit starting around 6 minutes and 10 seconds into the recording: NAMM 2026 Day 2 Gibson Display (YouTube).

Separately, a social media post from guitar dealer The Music Zoo describes a "Michael Schenker Limited Edition Flying V" model said to be produced in a limited run of 50 pieces by the Gibson Custom Shop Murphy Lab, and invites inquiries for orders. The Music Zoo Facebook reel.

As of this update, there has been **no official confirmation from Gibson Brands or Gibson Custom Shop** regarding a limited edition Michael Schenker signature Flying V model in their formal NAMM 2026 press releases or product announcements. The presence of a Schenker-associated Flying V on the NAMM show floor, however, suggests that the instrument was part of Gibson's exhibit during the event, even if an official production model has not yet been documented by the manufacturer.

Readers are advised that information based on social media postings and dealer promotions should be considered **unconfirmed until verified by official announcements** from Gibson or Gibson Custom Shop. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

[01/23/2026 update]
Francis Buchholz, Former Scorpions and Michael Schenker Collaborator, Has Passed Away: Sad news has emerged via a message posted on Facebook announcing the passing of Francis Buchholz. He passed away peacefully after a private battle with cancer, surrounded by his loved ones.

Francis Buchholz is widely known as the longtime bassist of Scorpions during their classic era. After many years, he reconnected musically with Michael Schenker in the mid-2010s, participating in projects associated with Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock period.

Beyond his musicianship, Francis was respected for his professionalism, warmth, and deep commitment to the music, leaving a lasting impression on bandmates and fans alike.

RIP Francis Buchholz. My prayers and deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his music.

Source: Facebook

[01/20/2026 update]
Michael Schenker Group "Heavy Hitters" Deluxe Edition SHM-CD Adds Bonus Tracks: According to HMV Japan, a new SHM-CD release of the Michael Schenker Group album "Heavy Hitters" is scheduled for release in Japan. This Deluxe Edition features several additional bonus tracks that were not included on the original release, attracting attention from fans and collectors.

Originally released in 2005, "Heavy Hitters" is a cover album featuring Michael Schenker alongside various guest musicians. The newly announced Japanese SHM-CD Deluxe Edition expands the original tracklist with extra material, some of which appears to be newly added for this release.

The bonus tracks listed for this Deluxe Edition include a newly recorded version of "Save Yourself", originally released under the McAuley Schenker Group name, a cover of Rush's "Finding My Way", as well as instrumental versions of "Blood Of The Sun", "Doctor Doctor", and "War Pigs".

While it remains unclear whether all of these bonus tracks are entirely unreleased recordings, their inclusion makes this Deluxe Edition a notable addition for long-time Michael Schenker Group fans.

For full details, including the complete track listing and release information, please see the HMV Japan product page:
https://www.hmv.co.jp/artist_Michael-Schenker-Group_000000000334549/item_Heavy-Hitters-Deluxe-Edition-SHM-CD

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