Tributes are pouring in for Eddie Van Halen, who has died of cancer aged 65.
His son Wolfgang Van Halen announced the death on social media on Tuesday.
In doing so, he honoured his father’s memory, writing in part: “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.”
Many honoured Van Halen’s memory after the news broke, highlighting his legacy as one of the most influential guitarists of all time. Van Halen co-founded the iconic band of the same name with his brother Alex in the 1970s and created some of the most celebrated guitar riffs in rock music.
“Legendary guitar and musical innovator Edward Van Halen. 1955-2020. Heaven will be electric tonight,” Lenny Kravitz tweeted along with a photo of the musician.
“Sad to hear Eddie Van Halen has passed away,” Yusuf/Cat Sevens wrote. “A guitar innovator with a fierce spirit of musical and technical exploration. Prayers and thoughts with his family and friends.”
Billy Idol shared a series of photos of the musician, writing: “Rest in peace guitar legend Eddie Van Halen. We will miss you.”
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel said “two of the best hours of [his] life were spent chatting with Eddie Van Halen”, adding: “A great musician, yes – also a funny and lovely guy who will be missed terribly."
Mark Hamill shared condolences with Wolfgang Van Halen, telling him: “So sorry for your tragic loss @WolfVanHalen, but take solace in knowing that he will be long remembered and live on forever as one of rock's most extraordinary guitar virtuosos.”
Ava DuVernay simply shared a broken heart emoji next to a clip of the band performing.
Sammy Hagar said the news had left him “heartbroken and speechless” and sent his love to Van Halen’s family.
Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi shared: “I’m just devastated to hear the news of the passing of my dear friend Eddie Van Halen. He fought a long and hard battle with his cancer right to the very end. Eddie was one of a very special kind of person, a really great friend. Rest In Peace my dear friend til we meet again.”
Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx described himself as “crushed. So f****** crushed”, adding: “RIP Eddie Van Halen. You changed our world. You were the Mozart of rock guitar. Travel safe rockstar.”
