At Age 65, Legend Eddie Van Halen Dies
On October 6th, many ardent fans reluctantly said goodbye to Eddie Van Halen. After a long arduous battle with cancer, he passed away last Tuesday. To many, he was the greatest American rock guitarist of all time. Through his music style and techniques, he earned this title. Along with his brother, David Lee Roth, and Mark Stone, Eddie Van Halen founded one of the most iconic bands of the era in 1972. Specifically, he was known for his music versatility and innovative guitar technique with distinct guitar riffs which made Van Halen distinctive. The band name Van Halen became a staple in pop culture overtime through the band’s influential role in defining rock and roll.
Although known most for his hits and his successful career, Eddie Van Halen’s music background is equally remarkable. He could play almost any instrument, but he could not read music. Even during his career, he never learned to read music, but he learned from listening and watching music through pure dedication and passion.
Throughout his career, he was successful and made a name for himself in the music industry and American culture. In 1984, “Jump” became #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and held that spot for five weeks. For that same song, he earned a Grammy nomination. In 2007, finally, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
During his lifetime, he had many hits that still resonate today. He is known for his songs “Jump”, “Dance the Night Away”, and many others. Both names that are very familiar in pop culture. Even if these names aren’t recognizable upon first impression, hearing these songs will definitely spur immediate recollection. Its recognizant because his music is timeless and epochal to rock and roll. He had a defining role in shaping the style of rock and roll. His style revolves around his trademark mix of heavy metal and American rock which was influential to successive musicians. In addition to his style, he had a remarkable guitar technique that inspired many musicians. In fact, the Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx referred to him as the “Mozart of rock guitar”. Altogether, his sound, widespread popularity, and timelessness consistently pervade pop culture.
He is now mourned by his bandmates, family, and his many fans that he gained through his career. His son Wolfgang mourned his loss online by writing that “every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift”. Sammy Hager, his bandmate, also said that he is “heartbroken and speechless”. Many of his fans are too. David Lee Roth resonated with the American populace with saying “what a long, great trip it’s been”. As it truly has been. His trip to success and fame was essential for the music industry today. Last Tuesday, the Rolling Stone commemorated him by pointing out that “it’s hard to imagine what rock and roll would sound like without Eddie Van Halen”. Although he is gone, his legacy is still prominent. Eddie Van Halen stood at the center of a quintessential era for music which secured his legendary position up to this day.