Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen, photo by Evil Robb Photography
Rock music legend and guitar innovator Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen died six years ago today, October 6th, 2020, from complications from his long battle with cancer and related illnesses. The most iconic guitar player to come along since Jimi Hendrix, Van Halen’s signature style and sound have influenced several generations of guitarists and bands. In the years since his death, we have seen countless tributes to his greatness, especially by Eddie’s son Wolf Van Halen, and his band, Mammoth, and Alex Van Halen’s book Brothers, plus his new book in 2026.
