Eddie Van Halen, Legendary Van Halen Guitarist, Has Died
Eddie Van Halen, the guitarist of Van Halen, has died. He was 65 years old.
TMZ reports that Van Halen passed away Tuesday (October 6th) at St. Johns Hospital in Santa Monica, California after a lengthy battle with throat cancer. He was reportedly surrounded by his son, Wolfgang, his brother Alex, and his wife, Janie.
Wolfgang confirmed the news via Instagram, writing:
“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 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 formed Van Halen in Pasadena in 1972 with his brother, Alex, on drums, Michael Anthony on bass and David Lee Roth singing. They practically ruled ’80s with hit songs like “Jump,” “Panama,” “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “Unchained,” and “Hot for Teacher.” The band continued their successful run with Sammy Hager after Lee Roth left the group in 1985. Aside from playing guitar for Van Halen, Eddie is also known for the iconic solo in Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.”
Widely known as one of the greatest guitiarists of all time, his one-of-a-kind talent and his beaming smile will surely be missed.
Eddie Van Halen is survived by his wife, Janie Liszewski, whom he married in 2009 and his son, Wolfgang, born in 1991.
