On Tuesday October 6, 2020, rock icon Eddie Van Halen sadly passed away after a long battle with throat cancer. Eddie was only 65 years old at the time of his passing. Eddie is considered by most rock and roll fans to be the greatest guitar player of all time.

In 1972 in Pasadena, California Eddie formed the band known as “Van Halen.” It wasn’t until 1978 when the band would release their first album named Van Halen. The album reached number 19 on the Billboard music charts. The band had the most success with their album 1984. The album went five times platinum after only being released for a year. The single “Jump” would be the band’s only number one hit. Other singles in the album include “Panama” and “I’ll Wait”. 

Eddie has collaborated with multiple icons including Gene Simmons, Michael Jackson and LL Cool J. He also made an appearance in an episode of Two and a Half Men. Eddie widely popularized the technique tapping. Tapping is using both hands on the neck of the guitar. Eddie is most known for his “frankenstrat.” The “frankenstrat” is a guitar made from parts of different guitars. He and his band-mates were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. 

It seems as though the rock community will never be the same since Eddie has passed. He was a role model for many young guitar players and will be deeply missed. Eddie’s accomplishments will be remembered forever. He has left a lasting impact on the rock genre on community. His iconic red, white, and black guitar will always be remembered.