Eddie Van Halen

We lost two more names in the world of Music this week. Johnny Nash, often credited with bringing reggae to America, passed away at the age of 80 at his home in Houston. He had several hits over more than two decades...but his biggest was the lilting "I Can See Clearly Now."

But, the one that was the punch in the gut was the loss of rock innovator Eddie Van Halen. A self-taught guitarist who made many of his own instruments, Eddie's sound was immediately identifiable. And, with such an extensive catalogue of work, we have a lot of choices on this Music Friday.

Track 1, Side 1 of album 1 announced Eddie's arrival to the world.

It was the band's fourth album in which Eddie introduced keyboards to the VH sound. David Lee Roth once commented that Eddie played keys with his fists. "Jump" is one of their best videos, primarily because it shows Eddie as supremely confident and having a ball.

It's a horrible video...but it's proof that Eddie supplied the guitar solos (and, apparently, rearranged the bridge) in Michael Jackson's "Beat It" despite not being paid or credited.

Then there's this...the moment that Eddie and Sammy jammed at Farm Aid '85 that sealed the deal that produced the "Van Hagar" era.

And, we all slow down. When Eddie welcomed Diamond Dave back to again front the band, he looked tired...but his guitar work still sizzled on "Tattoo."

If you're pressed for time, just watch this compilation of greatness.

Rest now, Eddie...you blazed a trail that will never be forgotten.

Comments

[Lee T]

I owned "I Can See Clearly Now" as an 11 year old. Loved that song. Eddie was the most gifted guitarist of his and other generations. Was too young to witness Hendrix, but blessed to have grown up with Van Halen. I can still remember hearing "Eruption" for the first time. The sound that blasted out of my friend's Jensen-powered car stereo was an explosion that stunned us frozen. You just had to sit still and experience it. It remains the most memorable experience of my teenage rock music life. While "Jump" may have been their most successful single, it was lame. Panama kicks its butt from start to finish. You are dead on with "Tattoo". Totally appreciate the Farm Aid clip. RIP Eddie and Johnny

[David Holder]

Ever since I saw the news of EVH, I have been looking forward to your perspective. Truly an innovator! Thanks as always, Bill.

[Bill Geist]

Thanks, my friend. Really not that much to say that hasn't been said...so, I just let his artistry do the talking.