“Heartbroken and speechless.
“Just when I thought 2020 couldn’t get any worse, I hear Eddie Van Halen has passed.
So shocking,” wrote Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler.
Credit: Daniel Knighton/Getty Images
“One of the nicest, down to Earth men I have ever met and toured with.
A true gent and true genius.
Thoughts go out to his brother Alex, and his family.”
“A genius musician and quite an interesting personality.
His style influenced a new generation of shredders.
It was sad to hear about his health struggles, but always seemed to overcome them.
Thank you Eddie for the incredible gifts of your music and live performances.
History and music fans will remember and cherish you with the highest esteem.”
Several similarly expressed their awe and admiration for Van Halen’s innovative guitar playing.
“RIP Eddie Van Halen,” wrote Madonna’s longtime guitarist Monte Pittman.
“His technique, his sound, and his songs changed the shape of music.
He was an inspiration to every guitar player taking things to a new level.
The music world will never be the same but he leaves a legacy that will live forever.”
In an interview with EW, filmmakerRobert Rodriguezreminisced about Van Halen and his iconic Frankenstrat guitar.
“I saw Van Halen when they toured in San Antonio,” Rodriguez said.
“I even have one of his replica guitars.
I think they made only 300.
Hes good friends with my friendGeorge Lopez.
Hes got his guitar that he built himself.
Its an iconic feature.
Van Halen’s friendKenny Chesneyposted a lengthy statement on Twitter, recalling his experience performing with the guitarist.
Rest In Peace to the best guitar player that ever lived.”
“40 years ago my life changed forever when I met you,” Bertinelli wrote.
“You gave me the one true light in my life, our son, Wolfgang.
Through all your challenging treatments for lung cancer, you kept your gorgeous spirit and that impish grin.
I’m so grateful Wolfie and I were able to hold you in your last moments.
I will see you in our next life my love.”
See more tributes to Van Halen below.
Additional reporting by Omar Sanchez.
