Guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, whose blinding speed, control and innovation propelled his band Van Halen into one of hard rock’s biggest groups, died of cancer.
The 65-year-old legendary guitarist was fighting cancer for a long time and finally succumbed to the disease on Tuesday, his son confirmed the news on Wednesday.
“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning,” Wolf Van Halen twitted.
“He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop,” he added.
The late guitarist was famous for what became known as “finger-tapping” -playing the guitar with two hands, like a piano.
He was also known for his guitars, including one named Frankenstein which he pieced together from part of other instruments.