Great rock guitarists dies

[metsrock69]

One of the greatest musicians that ever lived has lost his battle with cancer. Eddie van halen was one of my favorites growing up and I am glad I got to see him play in the 80's  . my thoughts and prayers go out to his family,friends, and fans

[Nancy5]

I just heard that.  I used to love his music.  They said he died of cancer, but didn’t say what kind.  RIP

[1imaginarygirl]

I just heard that.  I used to love his music.  They said he died of cancer, but didn’t say what kind.  RIP

I read that he's had throat cancer for a while, but it spread.

[DEBMZ6]

I was so shocked and saddened to hear of his passing.  I read that he had been battling throat cancer that traveled to his brain. May he RIP!

[potluck6]

To bad 65 is still young. Will maybe now go listen to his music on YouTube. YouTube is great for that and free.

[plennis]

He was a fabulous musician, one of the best guitarists ever. Well he is out of pain now, R.I.P.
 

[ccandpam]

Eddie Van Halen was my favorite. I pray for his Family and Friends. RIP Eddie.

[ghunter]

RIP Eddie, Sending up prayer to the family.

[rghvac69]

Van Halen---one of my favorite bands growing up. RIP.

[alina6]

I didn't realize he was 65

[heypeg]

Yes another victim of cancer.

[miltonarmitage]

He will be missed by many, cancer has ended too many lives way before their time but his music will live forever! I was interested to learn that in the Michael Jackson hit "Beat It", it was Eddie Van Halen who played the guitar. 

[surveygrabber]

I grew up listen to Van Halen when I was really young. I also grew up listening to Michael Jackson.

[braggin]

Eddie Van Halen was a master guitarist and I loved several of his songs, including JUMP. I am very sorry to hear he passed at the young age of 65 from throat cancer.

[UGetPaid]

Jimmy Hendricks was before my time, although I can appreciate his talent posthumously. Eddie Van Halen was probably the most talented guitarist of my lifetime, although I suppose there are many who could compete for that title.


This video of one of his live solos was always one of my favorites.


Another guitarist that is less well known - different styles entirely - but also a favorite of mine who died way too young back in 1997 was Michael Hedges. I did a search for a few of his videos and found this one.


It was ironic that in his video Eddie had a lit cigarette burning and attached to the end of his fretboard - sending up smoke from the neck. In the Michael Hedges video, he has a lit stick of incense burning in almost the same position on his acoustic guitar.


RIP to two fine musicians.