I’m far removed from it now, but years ago I was a decent guitarist. I was fortunate to have had private lessons during most of my teen years. I even went on to spent two semesters in musical performance program in college! That’s when I decided I wasn’t cut out for life as a professional musician. The hours of practice, the dedication to that work just didn’t speak to me anymore.
But that journey taught me love for virtually every genre of music. I owe that to the exposure from my teachers over those years: Funk, jazz & the blues. Before that, friends who introduced me to hip hop, R&B & house. Even before that, home where I absorbed soul, reggae, country & gospel before I could walk.
Along the way in those earliest days, came my older brother, Wayne, who introduced me to rock: Queen, Led Zeppelin, Styx, AC/DC, Prince… & Van Halen.
David Lee Roth lead the world-famous Van Halen then with his edgy sexuality, powerful voice & ridiculously high-energy. He was the perfect fit for a band founded by one of the all-time greatest guitarists to live. If the Beatles made their guitars weep, Eddie made his scream, croon & seduce as he flitted across the strings. & God, those sounds were glorious!
Unquestionably one of few musicians I can use the word “admire” to describe, Eddie Van Halen was a creator & commander of the six strings. An artist, an innovator, a hell of a songwriter & a true showman who, with his band at his back, awed millions of us across the globe.
He died two days ago at the age of 65. Young, yes. But a life I imagine, well enjoyed & lived.
Play on, Eddie. Thank you for sharing your greatness with us all.