The first cassette tape I ever bought with my own money was the Van Halen album, “1984” and I was hooked. I covered the walls of my room with posters and pictures of Eddie and the band and got a second hand, JC Penney guitar for my 13th Birthday. My friends and I spent countless hours learning their songs, hand writing out theory lyrics and emulating their every move.
Over the years, I saw Van Halen live at least 10 times, including every version of the band’s line up. I spent my 17th birthday at their Monsters of Rock show at the Hoosier Dome and I skipped my college graduation commencement ceremony because I had front row tickets and backstage passes to see them at Starwood Amphitheater in Nashville, TN. That night instead of shaking the President of Ball State University’s hand, I shook the hand of King Edward Van Halen which is a decision I’ve never regretted.
Now, as we mourn his loss, musicians will hopefully find comfort knowing that Eddie’s mark on music will be forever felt. His guitar playing techniques were equally as influential as his development of the instrument and amplifiers was technically innovative. He was a guitar God, a rock legend, and one of my first heros.
Personally, I’d just like to thank him for writing the soundtrack to my youth and offer my deepest condolences to the whole Van Halen family.
Make Some Noise 