Iconic musician Eddie Van Halen, known for his eponymous band, has passed away from throat cancer at age 65. While not directly connected to the world of movies, Van Halen's signature style was a mainstay of the 1980s including countless movie soundtracks for TWISTER and FURIOUS 7 to MINIONS, THIS IS 40, ARGO, and many more. According to TMZ, the Van Halen co-founder and guitarist passed away Tuesday at St. Johns Hospital in Santa Monica, California.
For a comprehensive list of songs arranged by Eddie Van Halen that were featured in movies throughout the years be sure to visit vhnd.com.
You know what, 2020? I'm getting pretty sick and tired of your shit. You've taken a lot of incredible people from us this year, and now you've gone and sacrificed Eddie Van Halen to cancer? If you had a face, I would punch it, repeatedly.
According to reports, Eddie's wife, Janie, was by his side when he passed, as was his son, Wolfgang, and Alex, Eddie's brother and drummer. It's been said that Eddie's cancer had gotten much worse during his final 72 hours after cancer had moved to his brain and other organs.
Despite being sick for a number of years, Eddie continued to attend concerts and rehearse music with his son, who became Van Halen's bassist in 2006.
Eddie, considered to be one of music history's most influential figures, established Van Halen in 1972 with his brother Alex, on drums, Michael Anthony on bass, and David Lee Roth on vocals. Eddie acted as the primary songwriter on their self-titled debut album in 1978, which paved the way for Van Halen to become one of the most iconic rock bands ever.
Some of the band's greatest hits include such epic jams as "Jump", "Panama", "Runnin' with the Devil", Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love", and my personal favorite, "Hot for Teacher". Van Halen was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, an honor that only so many musical acts receive in their lifetime.
Our sincere condolences go out to Eddie Van Halen's family, friends, and fans. Right this very minute, I am blasting Van Halen in my home office at a volume that my neighbors are bound to call the cops over. Eddie's contributions to the music community will be felt for generations to come, and those who loved him will undoubtedly miss him dearly. Rest in peace, good sir, and much love to you in the Great Hereafter.
To witness Eddie shredding like there's no tomorrow be sure to watch the video below: