Eddie Van Halen’s Archival Album Is Finally on the Way
Alex Van Halen has confirmed for the first time that he is actively working on a new album built around previously unheard material from his late brother, Eddie Van Halen. While he had alluded in the past to collaborating with Steve Lukather, Alex is now offering clearer insight into the scope and intent of the project.
Speaking during an interview with the Brazilian YouTube channel KazaGastao, Alex explained that Lukather — a close friend of Eddie — is deeply involved in shaping the record. According to Alex, the goal is not simply to release archival recordings, but to complete them to a standard worthy of the Van Halen name.
Why has the Music Has Taken So Long
Addressing why fans haven’t heard any of this material in the years since Eddie’s passing, Alex emphasized that unfinished demos were never an option for release. He said the music must reflect the same level of quality the band demanded during Eddie’s lifetime, rather than being shared in an incomplete or raw state.
The recordings, he explained, originate from sessions intended to become Van Halen’s next studio album before Eddie’s death halted progress. Much of the groundwork is already complete, with drums, guitars, and bass tracks recorded. Wolfgang Van Halen handled the bass parts, keeping the project firmly within the family’s musical lineage.
The Search for a Vocalist
While Lukather’s versatility has helped bridge gaps in the arrangements, one key element remains unresolved: the singer. Alex revealed that Paul Rodgers was considered but ultimately declined due to health concerns.
Alex noted that vocals are essential not just musically, but emotionally — providing what he described as the “glue” that binds the songs together. He and Lukather are currently searching for a vocalist with a similar generational background, someone who shares the same musical references and life experience needed to bring depth to the material. Former Van Halen frontmen David Lee Roth, Sammy Hagar, and Gary Cherone were not mentioned.
Alex suggested that Robert Plant would be an ideal match, though Plant is currently occupied touring his latest work. Still, Alex remains optimistic, expressing confidence that the right circumstances — and the right voice — will eventually align to allow the project to be completed in the best possible way.
