The Young and the Restless Star Michael Damian Teams Up With John Waite for ‘Rock On ’26’

Michael Damian is marking a major milestone in his music career with the release of Rock On ’26, a reimagined version of his chart-topping hit featuring acclaimed rock musician John Waite.

The new recording arrives on the anniversary of one of Damian’s biggest career achievements. On June 3, 1989, Rock On reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing its place as one of the era’s defining hits. The song also became a favorite on MTV, helping transform it into a memorable pop culture phenomenon.

Michael Damian Celebrates a Major ‘Rock On’ Milestone

Now, more than three decades later, Damian is revisiting the classic with a fresh take that is already gaining attention — Rock On ’26 has become the No. 2 most-added record at Top 40 radio this week.

Released through Virgin Music Group, the updated version was produced by Grammy Award-winning producers Tom Weir and Larry Weir. While the new recording introduces a contemporary sound, it aims to preserve the attitude and energy that helped make the original a chart success.

New Version Features Rock Legend John Waite

“Rock On has always had a special place in my heart,” Damian said. “To see it still reaching audiences all these years later is amazing. Having John Waite join me on this new version made it even more special. Great rock songs find a way to live on.”

The release serves as the next chapter in Damian’s music career and will be followed by a full album. The strong early response from radio stations suggests that Rock On ’26 is resonating with listeners both familiar with the original hit and those discovering it for the first time. The updated version blends Damian’s signature vocals with Waite’s distinctive rock sound, creating a fresh interpretation of the classic track.

How The Young and the Restless Became Part of the Song’s Legacy

Although best known to many soap fans as Danny Romalotti on The Young and the Restless, Damian has built a multifaceted career spanning music, television, film, directing, and Broadway. His performance in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat earned him a Grammy nomination, while his role as Danny Romalotti has remained a fan favorite since he first joined the daytime drama in 1981.

In a fitting connection to the song’s legacy, Damian first performed Rock On as Danny Romalotti during a concert-themed episode of The Young and the Restless before the track became a national hit.

Today, Damian continues to balance his music career with appearances on the CBS daytime drama, where Danny remains one of Genoa City’s most beloved rock stars. The release of Rock On ’26 brings his musical journey full circle, celebrating both the song that topped the charts and the character that helped introduce it to soap audiences.

Rock On ’26 became available June 3 on major digital and streaming platforms.