On This Day in 2020: The World Lost Guitar Icon Eddie Van Halen at 65
via Freddy Krumins / YouTube
The News Spreads
On October 6, 2020, the music world lost Edward Lodewijk Van Halen—known to most as Eddie Van Halen—after a long health struggle. He was 65 years old. His passing was confirmed by his son, Wolfgang, who wrote on social media, “My father … has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning.”
Van Halen had been battling throat cancer for several years. In official documents, his immediate cause of death is listed as a stroke, with pneumonia, lung cancer, and a bone-marrow disorder cited among contributing factors.
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A Guitar Visionary
Eddie Van Halen co-founded the band Van Halen with his brother Alex in 1972. The group rose quickly, becoming one of rock’s most influential outfits. Van Halen’s aggressive yet melodic guitar playing introduced new techniques—especially two-handed tapping—that inspired countless musicians.
Beyond rock, his influence spread wide. He contributed the iconic guitar solo on Michael Jackson’s “Beat It,” which has become one of pop music’s most admired moments.
Tributes and Remembering Eddie
The reaction to his death was immediate and heartfelt. Musicians from many genres expressed respect and sorrow for the loss. Songs, tributes, and remembrances filled social media and music media alike.
Wolfgang Van Halen honored his father’s memory with a touching post: “He was the best father I could ever ask for.”
Close friends also reflected on Eddie’s impact. Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains called him “one of those guys who tilted the world on its axis.”
His Health Struggles
Van Halen’s health battles stretched back years. In 2000 he underwent treatment for tongue cancer and later had part of his tongue removed.
By 2019, reports confirmed that he was fighting throat cancer again.
As his condition worsened, the illness spread. His death certificate details show that the stroke was triggered by underlying issues including pneumonia, lung cancer, and a bone marrow disorder known as myelodysplastic syndrome.
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Van Halen’s Legacy
From their self-titled 1978 debut to later albums, Van Halen delivered hard rock with hooks, technical proficiency, and showmanship. Their body of work included hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Hot for Teacher.”
Even after Eddie’s passing, his innovations continue to shape guitarists today. His style elevated rock music, merging speed, melody, and tone in a way few had done before.
Van Halen the band officially disbanded after Eddie’s death. Wolfgang confirmed their closure, saying, “You can’t have Van Halen without Eddie Van Halen.”
