According to Lzzy Hale, Rock’s Future Rests With Wolfgang Van Halen

Halestorm frontwoman Lzzy Hale isn’t one to toss around praise lightly, but when it comes to Wolfgang Van Halen, her admiration runs deep. In a recent interview with Louder Sound, Hale opened up about the Mammoth WVH leader’s character, musicianship, and the way he’s carving his own lane—far beyond the towering shadow of his legendary father, Eddie Van Halen.

And if Hale’s instincts are right, Wolfgang isn’t just continuing a legacy—he’s redefining what it means to be a rock star in the modern era.

“None of That ‘I’m a Rock Star’s Kid’ Stuff”

It’s no secret that being the child of a music icon comes with pressure—and often, privilege. But according to Hale, Wolfgang’s grounded personality stands out in a scene that sometimes rewards ego.

“He is a humble kid, there’s none of that ‘I’m a rock star’s kid’ stuff,” Hale told Louder Sound. “I’ve met quite a few of those guys that think that they’re better than everybody else because their dad was famous. That’s never been Wolfie.”

Hale also shared a vivid memory from a visit to Eddie Van Halen’s legendary 5150 Studios, a space that still bears the sonic fingerprints of the late guitar god.

“He took us to 5150 and it still had all the tapes up there,” she said. “There was Jump, the old analogue tapes, everything marked, everything organized to a T. And we’re like: ‘Are we supposed to be in here?’ He’s like: ‘Oh yeah, dad won’t mind.’ I’m like, this isn’t just anybody’s dad’s garage!”

Building His Own Legacy—On His Own Terms

While the Van Halen name carries massive weight in rock history, Wolfgang isn’t banking on legacy. Instead, he’s earning respect through raw talent, relentless work, and a vision that’s fully his own. Hale believes that approach is exactly what rock needs.

“I think he and his band are gonna save rock ‘n’ roll,” she declared. “He’s a part of that small club of rock stars that are like: ‘Hey, you are more than welcome to be a part of this cool thing that we’re doing, but we don’t need you, we’re gonna do it anyway.’”

Wolfgang’s recent work supports that claim. His band Mammoth WVH dropped a new single, “The End,” a high-energy track featuring explosive guitar work and a melodic hook that’s pure modern rock. The video—directed by filmmaker Robert Rodriguez—includes cameos from icons like Slash and Myles Kennedy, a testament to Wolfgang’s growing influence in the genre.

A New Chapter, Not a Revival

Despite his deep connection to the Van Halen legacy, Wolfgang is focused on forging a different future. He’s stated in interviews that he no longer listens to Van Halen’s music, an intentional move to avoid being trapped by nostalgia.

WRIF also reported on his philosophy around live performance, noting that while studio work is fun, playing live is where he feels most fulfilled. “Creating music is fun,” Wolfgang has said, “but sharing it with an enthusiastic crowd is the ultimate reward.”

For Hale, that independent spirit is precisely what makes Wolfgang such a powerful presence in today’s rock landscape.

He’s not just Eddie’s son anymore—he’s becoming one of rock’s most compelling voices in his own right.