Legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen has died after cancer battle, aged 65

6 October 2020, 21:29

Eddie Van Halen, one of the world's most famous rock guitarists, has died at the age of 65.

The Dutch-American musician, best known for co-founding his namesake band Van Halen, had been undergoing treatment for throat cancer.

His son Wolfgang paid tribute on social media, describing him as the best father he could ever ask for.

Van Halen - Jump (Official Music Video)

"My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop," his son wrote.

Van Halen reportedly died at St Johns Hospital in Santa Monica on Tuesday (October 6), surrounded by his family.

View this post on Instagram

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. 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.

A post shared by Wolf Van Halen (@wolfvanhalen) on Oct 6, 2020 at 12:26pm PDT

Eddie and his drummer brother Alex Van Halen formed a band in 1972, and two years later they changed its name to simply Van Halen.

Their most famous lineup also included singer David Lee Roth and bassist Michael Anthony, and they sold over 10 million records worldwide. Perhaps their most famous song was the infectious 1984 classic 'Jump'.

Eddie Van Halen - Beat It solo Live with Michael Jackson

Eddie Van Halen was known for his impressive guitar skills, and in 2012 was voted number one in Guitar World magazine's poll for 'The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time'.

He also played the famous guitar riff in Michael Jackson's song 'Beat It'.