Philadelphia, PA - Eddie Van Halen, the guitarist for the band "Van Halen," died Tuesday due to cancer. The news was announced by an individual close to Van Halen's family. At the age of 65.
Eddie Van Halen Rock Legend Passes
Van Halen turned to sobriety in 2008 when after losing one-third of his tongue to cancer which eventually migrated into his esophagus.
Van Halen was known for his innovation and guitar skills, propelling his band into one of the biggest rock acts of the '80s and '90s.
Born in Amsterdam, Eddie and his family moved to California in 1962. His father was a clarinetist who had trouble finding work. His mother found work as a maid and had wanted her sons to become classical pianists.
Van Halen is one of the top 20 best-selling artists of all time and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.
Eddie Van Halen and his band starting getting noticed in the late 1970s with the band's self-titled debut album. In 1984 the band released their breakthrough album "1984," with the classics tracks "Jump," "Panama," and "Hot for Teacher."
Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
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