RIP Edward Lodewijk (Eddie) Van Halen (Jan 26, 1955 – Oct 6, 2020)

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the passing of Eddie Van Halen, a prominent figure in rock music, focusing on his impact as a guitarist and the personal memories of fans and musicians. The conversation includes reflections on his career, health struggles, and the influence he had on others.

Discussion Character

  • Meta-discussion, Historical, Personal reflection

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes Van Halen's battle with cancer and his history of heavy drinking and smoking, suggesting these may have contributed to his health issues.
  • Another participant shares a personal memory of attending a concert featuring Van Halen with David Lee Roth, indicating the significance of that experience.
  • A participant expresses a deep emotional response to Van Halen's death, comparing it to the loss of another influential guitarist, Allan Holdsworth.
  • One contributor highlights how Van Halen inspired them to start playing guitar, emphasizing his innovative style and influence on rock music.
  • A participant reflects on the impact of Van Halen's albums, describing them as a showcase of guitar mastery and innovation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express agreement on Van Halen's significant influence and legacy in music, though personal reflections and emotional responses vary widely.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on personal experiences and memories, which may not encompass the full scope of Van Halen's career or influence. The discussion includes subjective interpretations of his impact on music and culture.

Science news on Phys.org
"Recently Eddie checked into a hospital to undergo treatment for cancer symptoms in his mouth, specifically on his tongue. A heavy drinker and chain smoker, Van Halen has tried to curb his bad habits in later life, but it seems his early excesses have taken their toll before he could drop them. "



" The duo formed a series of bands in the early 1970s with names like the Broken Combs, the Trojan Rubber Company, and Genesis, but never got significant traction until they came across the charismatic son of a wealthy doctor named David Lee Roth. “Roth was the only guy who had a PA,” Eddie said. “We were renting his PA every weekend for $35 and getting $50 for the gigs. So it was cheaper to get him in the band.” "

From, https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/eddie-van-halen-dead-200051/
 
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This one is classic:
 
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I saw them in concert, probably late 1978 or in 1979 with Roth. It was definitely after the first album and maybe about the time of their second album.
 
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I play the guitar so this definitely hit hard. This is as bad as Allan Holdsworth passing.
 
Eddie was the reason I picked up guitar in the first place. My high school memories are of drinking beer and cranking Women and Children First and 1984. Their first six albums are a master showcase of guitar playing, he was a legit riff master. He was a true innovator, the most influential guitarist alongside Jimi Hendrix. I am very thankful to have gotten to see them play on tour most recently. RIP Eddie.
 
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