Music fans are still coming to terms with the fact that guitar virtuoso Eddie Van Halen left us on October 6th this year. Those are pioneering guitar shoes that just won’t ever be filled. From the moment we all heard the 2 minute Eruption solo off Van Halen’s debut album, we were mesmerised by the man’s fretboard gift and he continued to amaze us over many years with his incredible recordings and live performances.
From all accounts from those who spent time with Eddie, he was a down to earth nice guy too. This fact has been further confirmed with the release of footage from EVH’s visit to ailing guitarist Jason Becker’s home in 1996.
Posted just a couple of days ago on Jason’s YouTube channel, the description reads as follows:
“An amazing meeting took place on August 31, 1996. That’s when Eddie Van Halen spent the day with a guy who had followed in his footsteps playing alongside David Lee Roth—Jason Becker. Jason had been diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and was not in good shape. Van Halen came to Jason’s house to give love and support—as well as a guitar—to his friend and to film an ALS awareness promotional video. During that time, Eddie told stories, talked about his creative process, and played amazing music, instantly sounding exactly like Eddie Van Halen even when playing Jason’s guitar through a small practice amp.”
“This never-before-seen footage shows a side of Eddie Van Halen that goes far beyond his brilliant musicianship: a sweet, caring, generous personality, devoid of the trappings of fame or rock stardom. The video also documents the incredible strength of Jason Becker, who had been deprived of his shot at fame as well as his genius guitar skills, but still found the courage and the will to battle a debilitating disease.”
“Eddie was such a beautiful person,” says Becker. “He was incredibly kind to me and my family. Not only was he my biggest influence, he had such a huge heart. He honestly saved my life.”
This video is a must-see piece of history, not just for guitarists but for everyone. It truly shows the magic of kindness, and a depth of emotion that we can all use more of.
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ICONS & LEGENDS – A Tribute To The Legacy Of Eddie Van Halen Australian Tour
There are not many iconic and legendary guitarists who hold the same esteem, respect and legacy as Eddie Van Halen. A guitarist who shaped generations, shaped genres and blew our minds with the heights he took his instrument to.
The death of Eddie Van Halen on 6 October 2020 will forever be a date etched into the collective memories of not only rock fans, but music fans in general. Much like the deaths of significant music icons before him (think Hendrix, Prince, Freddy Mercury, Michael Jackson), Van Halen’s death will further cement his legacy and, with the benefit of hindsight, collectively allow us to listen and appreciate, in awe – like it was the first time hearing it, the genius of his work.
In a bitter sweet twist of fate, the Frankies World Famous House Band (from Sydney rock institution, Frankies Pizza) had been, for months, rehearsing a Van Halen show to showcase in early December, as part of the venues week long 8th birthday celebrations. As fate would have it, the world lost Eddie Van Halen and this show took on so much greater meaning, purpose and feel. To put it in simple terms, the show was a resounding success, with queues of punters lining Hunter Street for hours to get a glimpse of the show.
Featuring Joel McDonald (one of Australia’s most sought after guitarists), Jordan McDonald (The Art, Mi-Sex), Bobby Poulton (Wolfmother) and guest vocalists: Spencer Jones, Simon Hill and Frank Lakoudis, the band tore threw a set of Van Halen album cuts and hits which left the crowd begging for more. The show was pure intensity and energy with the band, and in particular, Joel McDonald, delivering a world class performance that would have made Eddie Van Halen proud.
Silverback Touring is delighted to be presenting the Frankies World Famous House Band across Australia as they perform the songs of Van Halen in one massive tribute to the great, Eddie Van Halen. The show will also feature a range of all-star guest guitarists in each city all joining the show to pay homage to EVH. Fans can expect a night of guitar hysterics, some classic Van Halen from both the David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar eras as well as some album cuts that would not normally be heard live.
This show is an absolute must for any Van Halen, rock or guitar fan. This show is a celebration of music and rock ’n’ roll, and the importance of Eddie Van Halen to both.
Icons & Legends: A Tribute to Eddie Van Halen February 2021 Tour Dates
Friday 5th February – Perth, Amplifier Bar
Saturday 6th February – Adelaide, The Gov
Friday 12th February – Sydney, Max Watts
Saturday 13th February – Melbourne, Max Watts
Friday 26th February – Brisbane, The Triffid
Saturday 27th February – Gold Coast, Coolangatta Hotel
Tickets at https://www.silverbacktouring.com.au/icons-evh/
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WATCH: SIMON HOSFORD’S FAIR WARNING MELBOURNE GUITAR SHOW PERFORMANCE
And if you haven’t watched it yet, check out Simon Hosford’s Fair Warning Melbourne Guitar Show performance of Van Halen’s debut album HERE