Iconic guitarist Eddie Van Halen dies of cancer at 65
He founded the hugely successful rock band Van Halen, named after him and his brother Alex, in the early 1970s.
Legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen died of cancer on Tuesday, his son announced on Twitter. He was 65.
“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,” Wolfgang Van Halen, a bass player who played with his father in the band, tweeted. “He was the best father I could ever 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.”
Eddie Van Halen is considered one of rock music’s greatest guitar players. He founded the hugely successful rock band Van Halen, named after him and his brother Alex who played the drums in the early 1970s.
The band’s debut album, released in 1978, shot to No. 19 on the Billboard charts, according to Reuters. The band’s hits include “Runnin’ with the Devil,” and “Eruption”.
Van Halen has sold more than 75 million albums.
— Wolf Van Halen (@WolfVanHalen) October 6, 2020
Some of the rock music industry’s biggest names have paid tribute to him on social media. Former Van Halen front man Sammy Hagar said he was “heartbroken”.
Heartbroken and speechless. My love to the family. pic.twitter.com/MQMueMF2XO
— Sammy Hagar (@sammyhagar) October 6, 2020
My heart is broken. Eddie was not only a Guitar God, but a genuinely beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Eddie! ...Eddie Van Halen Dead at 65 from Cancer https://t.co/gITtcndQVv
— Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) October 6, 2020
Just when I thought 2020 couldn't get any worse, I hear Eddie Van Halen has passed. So shocking- One of the nicest, down to Earth men I have ever met and toured with. A true gent and true genius. RIP. So sad.Thoughts go out to his brother Alex, and his family. pic.twitter.com/fwIw040YMX
— Geezer Butler (@geezerbutler) October 6, 2020
Rest in peace guitar legend Eddie Van Halen. 💔 We will miss you. #fuckcancer @eddievanhalen #eddievanhalen pic.twitter.com/S4vnN3tyWc
— Billy Idol (@BillyIdol) October 6, 2020
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ bassist Flea honoured him as well.
Oh man, bless his beautiful creative heart. I love you Eddie Van Halen, an LA boy, a true rocker. I hope you jam with Jimi tonight. Break through to the other side my brother. ❤️❤️❤️ https://t.co/XpcTlPJq9A
— Flea (@flea333) October 6, 2020
RIP Eddie Van Halen. Van Halen were a tremendous influence on both Vinnie & Dime & Pantera. Hopefully they are all rocking out together now! pic.twitter.com/XtnL33aGsd
— Pantera (@Pantera) October 6, 2020
. @EddieVanHalen was one of the nicest guys I ever worked with and we shared so many laughs together. His influence on music and especially the guitar has been immeasurable. He was an absolute legend. Eddie, I’ll see you on the other side, my friend. Love, Ozzy.
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) October 6, 2020
Can’t believe Eddie Van Halen is gone. He was born to be great! There’s a huge band somewhere in Heaven and I think I know who’s playing lead.
— Tom Hamilton (@THaerosmith) October 6, 2020
Guitars are gently weeping everywhere. Shred In Power Eddie Van Halen.🎸💔
— Diane Warren (@Diane_Warren) October 6, 2020
I’m just devastated to hear the news of the passing of my dear friend Eddie Van Halen. He fought a long and hard battle with his cancer right to the very end. Eddie was one of a very special kind of person, a really great friend. Rest In Peace my dear friend till we meet again. pic.twitter.com/Qs8tsLPANJ
— Tony Iommi (@tonyiommi) October 6, 2020
We are stunned to hear about the passing of our friend Eddie Van Halen. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans. A true legend, one of the greatest musicians ever in rock. He left an indelible mark. We love you Eddie… R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/iUdj3Jht9c
— RATT (@theRATTpack) October 6, 2020