Many have referred to him as a ‘guitar legend’, including Billy Idol: the loss of Eddie Van Halen, after battling throat cancer for quite some time, at the age of 65 has shaken the music industry all over the world, especially rock lovers and various celebrities who worshipped the ‘Jump’ guitarist.
According to TMZ, Eddie’s health began to deteriorate in the last 72 hours after doctors discovered that the legendary guitarist’s throat cancer had spread to his brain and other organs. Eddie, who was diagnosed with cancer over a decade ago, passed away with his wife, Janie, son, Wolfgang, and brother, Alex, by his side.
Amongst countless individuals who expressed their sorrows publicly, Van Halen’s ex- wife Valerie Bertinelli replied to her son’s heartbreaking tweet with a string of broken heart emojis. The two former Van Halen vocalists, David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, took to social media to display the love they held for the Guitar God.
Roth went on to tweet the simple phrase ‘What a long great trip it’s been..’ whilst attaching a black and white picture of the bandmates. On the other hand, Hagar posted a snap displaying him and Van Halen smiling at the camera where they seem to be aboard a plane, with the short caption ‘Heartbroken and speechless. My love to the family.’
Culture Club Front-man Boy George simultaneously gave his condolences by stating that ‘Eddie Van Halen [was] gone too soon. Total rock legend. Never met him but admired completely. Jump is a jam!’
Adding to the list of well-known stars who shared their memories with Van Halen was the lead member of Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne. He stated that “Eddie 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”.
Amongst other well-known tracks Eddie Van Halen has contributed to, one can find “Panama”, “Jump” and “Hot for Teacher”, all forming part of the ‘1984; album by the iconic rock band ‘Van Halen’. ‘Jump’ entered the iTunes Chart shortly after news of the passing started going round.
The list of tributes is endless, but they include, Piers Morgan, Gene Simmons, Jimy Kimmel, Ken Jeong, and even Nickelback!
RIP Eddie Van Halen, 65.
One of the greatest guitarists in music history and a delightfully warm, funny guy.
‘To hell with the rules, if it sounds right – then it is.’ pic.twitter.com/AZIAEMC5Pm— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) 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
Two of the best hours of my life were spent chatting with Eddie Van Halen. A great musician, yes – also a funny and lovely guy who will be missed terribly. Sending love to Janie, Wolf, Alex & all those who loved him.
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) October 6, 2020
I loved Van Halen so much growing up. Rest In Peace Eddie. pic.twitter.com/uWuNEF7Omv
— Ken Jeong (@kenjeong) October 6, 2020
The world lost an icon, innovator, showman, virtuoso, master songwriter and perhaps one of the biggest inspirations ever to learn how to play guitar. Heartbroken to hear of Eddie Van Halen’s passing. Our love, condolences and best wishes to his his family, friends and fans. #RIP pic.twitter.com/pGhPUXRzyb
— Nickelback (@Nickelback) October 6, 2020
RIP LEGEND!
