When it comes to legendary guitarists in music history, there are several names to choose from. But, when you think of the Mount Rushmore of Rock Gods, there is one name that always tops the list: Eddie Van Halen. A man who revolutionized the electric guitar sound and inspired every guitarist to follow, Van Halen is one of a kind. Unfortunately, we have some very sad news to pass along today, as he has passed away at age 65 after a long battle with cancer.
The news was confirmed by the guitarist’s son, Wolf Van Halen, who wrote:
“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning. He was the best father I could ask for. Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, pop.”
— Wolf Van Halen (@WolfVanHalen) October 6, 2020
💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔
— Valerie Bertinelli (@Wolfiesmom) October 6, 2020
As the founder and lead guitarist of one of Rock’s biggest bands, named aptly ‘Van Halen’, Eddie helped bridge the gap between classic rock and new age rock in the 70’s and 80’s. Whether he was playing behind the flamboyant, and often crazy, David Lee Roth, or the bohemian rocker, Sammy Hagar, Van Halen crushed it night in and night out.
Between violin bows and chainsaws, Eddie Van Halen successfully got the most unique sounds out of his guitar. He also incorporated the synch sounds of the 80’s into his one of a kind sound, bringing it all to the next level. The Rock World has lost a truly great one today, but now Heaven has the ultimate guitarist to rock on for eternity.